Canadian travellers now require an ETA to enter U.K. Here's what to know

Passengers arrive at the Heathrow Airport, in London Saturday, May 27, 2023. Passengers flying into the UK are facing delays at passport controls due to the e-gates are not working. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

Starting Jan. 8, Canadians visiting the U.K. for short trips will need to secure an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before boarding their flight.

Here's what to know:

What is a ETA?

The ETA is a new digital travel requirement for individuals who don’t need a visa to enter the U.K.

The ETA functions similarly to the U.S. version labelled ESTA – a document pre-clearing travellers for entry before they arrive.

Although some may refer to it as a visa, it is considered a visa waiver. It is only intended to be used for stays of up to six months.

Canadians already residing in the U.K or holding a visa are exempt from this requirement, including those who are permitted to live, work or study in the U.K.

How it works

The Canadian federal government said travellers must use the passport listed for their ETA application.

The cost for an ETA is a non-refundable C$18 (£10) charge, and travellers can apply through the official app listed on the U.K. government website, or directly online. Applications are processed within three days but could take longer.

ETAs are valid for two years and multiple entries. Since applications are linked to passports, the issuing of a new passport means travellers will have to apply for a new ETA.

Obtaining an ETA doesn’t guarantee entry to the U.K, according to the government. Travellers will still have to go through passport control and Border Force officials who have the final say over entry into the country.

Canada is among more than 50 countries who can apply for the travel document. The U.K government listed more than 30 additional countries who can apply starting March 5 for an ETA.

Similar systems, like the European Union’s ETIAS is set to launch this year.

To check whether you can apply for an ETA click here.

With files from CNN