If you are planning on visiting the United Kingdom, you may need an electronic travel authorization (ETA) or a visa. As of January 8, 2025, citizens of Canada and the United States need an ETA to enter the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family, business trips, or short-term study. This also applies to citizens of other countries.
Canadian and American travelers transiting though the UK without clearing border control do not need an ETA. However, if you are planning to get out during a long layover, change airports, or continue your journey with a domestic flight you will need an ETA.
The ETA itself is good for 2 years and allows unlimited travel to and from the UK which includes England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. However, an ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK, as the decision rests with border control. And be sure to have all the necessary documents to enter the UK, such as a valid passport.
How to apply for an ETA
Each passenger, including children must apply separately as the electronic travel authorization is linked to the traveler’s passport.
- Here is the official link to apply for an ETA
- There is also an app for Apple and Google available.
We found that the easiest way to apply was to use the UK ETA app. It was simple and straightforward, and it cost £16 (or approximately US $20). You can pay with a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Once you are done, you will get a confirmation email that your request has been received with a reference number. It may take up to 3 days to obtain an ETA, and then you will get another email stating that your ETA application has been approved. We got ours within a few minutes, but you need to do this in advance because without it you will not be allowed to fly to the UK.
Conclusion
Getting an ETA is simple. It’s only one small extra step to do before traveling. More countries are adding these electronic travel authorizations including Canada, the United States, and in 2026 the European Union has plans to require ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System).