Canada
United KingdomDo Canada citizens need a visa for United Kingdom?
ETA required · 6 months
For an ordinary Canada passport visiting United Kingdom for tourism, business, or transit (short stay up to 30 days).
Reviewed and cross-checked· Last verified 23 May 2026
Short-stay rules at a glance
- Visa requirement
- ETA required
- Max stay
- 6 months
- Entry type
- All ports of entry
- Passport validity
- Passport must be valid for the duration of stay.
- Requirements
- UK ETA applied online before travel — £20 (since 8 April 2026), valid 2 years or until passport expires
- Notes
- 85 nationalities require ETA in full force since 25 February 2026. 6-month visitor entry.
Special rules & exceptions
- Paid work requires a Skilled Worker / Health and Care Worker visa.
- Study > 6 months requires Student visa.
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Frequently asked questions
Do Canada citizens need a visa to travel to United Kingdom?
Based on GoMate's data verified against official and consular sources, the short-stay rule for an ordinary Canada passport entering United Kingdom is "ETA required", for stays of up to 6 months. This covers short visits for tourism, business, or transit. Entry requirements can change, so always confirm with the United Kingdom embassy before traveling.
How long can Canada citizens stay in United Kingdom?
Under current regulations, Canada passport holders may stay in United Kingdom for up to 6 months per entry on a short-stay basis (tourism, business, or transit). Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and may affect future visa applications, so plan to leave within the permitted period.
How do Canada citizens apply for a United Kingdom visa, step by step?
Canada passport holders must obtain an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) online before departure. Apply through United Kingdom's official ETA system, pay the fee, and travel once it is approved — approval is usually quick. Be ready to provide: UK ETA applied online before travel — £20 (since 8 April 2026), valid 2 years or until passport expires.
What documents do Canada citizens need to enter United Kingdom?
Passport must be valid for the duration of stay. Additional requirements: UK ETA applied online before travel — £20 (since 8 April 2026), valid 2 years or until passport expires. Carry proof of onward travel and sufficient funds, as these may be checked at the border.
Can Canada citizens work in United Kingdom on this entry?
No. Short-stay entry to United Kingdom is intended for tourism, business meetings, and transit — it does not permit paid employment. To work in United Kingdom, Canada citizens need a separate work visa or permit arranged in advance.
Can Canada citizens extend their stay in United Kingdom?
The 6 months short-stay limit is generally firm. Extensions are sometimes possible by applying to the United Kingdom immigration authorities before your permitted stay ends. Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, and may affect future visa applications, so do not rely on it.
Is this United Kingdom visa rule for Canada citizens up to date?
This rule was last reviewed on 23 May 2026. Visa policies change frequently — always confirm the final requirements with the United Kingdom embassy or government before you travel.
Visa policies change without notice. Always confirm the final requirements directly with the United Kingdom embassy or government before travel.