Britain Requires Canadians to Obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization Starting February 25
The UK authorities have announced that all Canadian travelers to the United Kingdom will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before boarding flights, starting February 25, 2026.
The requirement applies to all Canadian citizens who do not need a visa to enter the UK, meaning they will not be allowed to travel to or enter the UK without obtaining the authorization in advance.
The UK government stated that the ETA will be valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Applications can be submitted through the official online portal, requiring passport details, a personal photo, and a facial scan.
Authorities noted that most applications are approved within minutes, but it is recommended to apply at least three days in advance to avoid any delays.
The application fee for the ETA is £16, up from the initial £10 when the system was first introduced.
Exemptions include British or Irish passport holders, as well as individuals with a valid UK visa or those residing, working, or studying in the UK.
The UK government emphasized that this measure aims to strengthen border security and manage visitor entry, aligning with the global trend toward electronic travel authorizations for visa-exempt travelers.
This post is also available in:
العربية
