UK to Enforce New ETA Rule What Canadian Travelers Must Know

What’s changing for travellers

Starting 25 February 2026, the Home Office of the United Kingdom will begin enforcing the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme strictly. That means visitors from 85 visa-exempt countries, including the Canada, who previously traveled visa-free will now need a valid ETA before boarding flights to the UK. 

Until now, the ETA requirement was being rolled out but wasn’t strictly required giving travellers time to adjust. 

 Who is impacted

• Travellers from visa-exempt countries such as Canada, the US, Australia, many EU nations, and others must obtain an ETA.
  
• Visitors on short holidays, business trips, family visits, or tourism even for just a few days will need the ETA.
  
• Exceptions: Citizens of the UK or Ireland (and possibly dual British/Irish nationals with valid documentation) remain exempt. 

What travellers must do before booking

• Apply for the ETA online (via official UK ETA portal).
  
• Expect to pay a fee currently £16 per application.
  
• Most ETA applications are processed within minutes, but it’s wise to apply at least 3 working days before travel in case additional review is needed.
  

 Why the UK is doing this

• The UK government says ETA authorisations give them “greater power” to vet who enters boosting border security and improving immigration oversight.
  
• At the same time, they claim the ETA digitisation makes travel smoother and more efficient for legitimate visitors.
  

 What travellers (especially Canadians) should watch out for

• No more visa-free assumption: Having a Canadian passport alone won’t work you need the ETA.
  
• Noncompliance = denied boarding: Airlines and carriers will check ETA status before allowing passengers to board.
  

Plan ahead: Apply early, especially during peak travel seasons allowing time for possible delays.

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