Canadian citizens do not generally need a visa to enter the United Kingdom (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales) for short visits of up to six months, provided they meet the Standard Visitor conditions (tourism, visiting friends/family, business meetings, short courses, etc.). No formal visa is required to enter the UK as a tourist.

However, from 25 February 2026, most Canadians must obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the UK. An ETA is a digital permission linked to the traveller’s passport; it must be approved before departure but does not guarantee entry — the Border Force at the port of arrival retains discretion at the border.

With an ETA, Canadians can stay for up to six months, but cannot work, claim public funds, settle, or live in the UK through frequent or successive visits. View 6101 UK Electronic Travel Authorisation for more information.

Situations where Canadians need a Visit Visa

Individuals with prior refusals, criminal convictions, or adverse immigration history should seek advice before travelling, as your ETA application may be refused. In these situations, applying for a standard visit visa may be the recommended course of action.

Note: If you are visiting the UK to get married then a Marriage Visitor Visa is the most appropriate option.

Situations where an ETA or Visit Visa is not required

There are situations where neither an ETA nor a visa is needed — for example, if you already hold a valid UK visa or permission to live in the UK, or if you are a British or Irish citizen.

Get more information and legal help

Ensuring you have the correct travel documents, such as an ETA or valid proof of UK immigration status, is essential to board a plane from Canada. To learn more, please get in touch with Sterling Immigration Ltd.

								
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