For Canadian passport holders or permanent residents visiting the UK, the ETA is now mandatory. In this guide, we discuss what the ETA is, when you should apply, and how Air Canada checks for compliance. Overall, plan ahead to ensure a smooth journey.
What Is the UK ETA?
The UK ETA is an electronic pre-travel screening requirement for visitors entering the United Kingdom. In particular, it helps UK authorities manage border security.
Overall, the system is digital and fast for Air Canada passengers. Without it, travelers can be denied boarding or entry.
Specifically, the ETA applies to visitors from countries that previously entered the UK visa-free, including Canada.
The UK has been introducing the ETA in phases, starting in 2023. By 2025, most visa-free travelers–including eligible Air Canada flyers–will need one.
Think of the UK ETA as similar to the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA. Although it’s not a visa, approval is still mandatory.
How to Apply for a UK ETA
Applying for the UK ETA for eligible Air Canada flyers is simple but must be done before travel. Here’s how to complete it correctly.
Step 1: Visit the EVS platform. It simplifies the ETA application process so you can avoid going through complex visa processes.
At EVS, Air Canada flyers’ personal and travel information remains safe and secure with its strict data protection regulations. Moreover, it provides you with expert guidance and seamless support to ensure a stress-free application journey.
Step 2: Upload a passport photo. It must have a plain, light-colored background without any shadows or objects behind you.
Step 3: Upload a scan or photo of your passport information page. Ensure the full passport photo page is inside the frame, including the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom. Additionally, the passport must be valid for at least six months upon entering and exiting the UK.
Step 4: Provide your personal information:
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Contact details
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Home address
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Employment information
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Citizenship information
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Criminal history, if any
Overall, make sure that the information you provide matches what is on your passport.
Step 5: Review and confirm the information on your application. You can pay using suitable electronic payment methods.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Step 7: Receive your UK ETA. You will receive an e-mail with the decision. Next, the ETA will be linked to your passport digitally.
Once approved, your ETA is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period—or until your passport expires.
Even if you’re not visiting the UK for tourism or business, you still need an ETA if your travel involves entry.
Mistakes can delay approval. So triple-check all entries before you submit.
Ready to get started with your application? Then click the button below to obtain your ETA.
Apply NowAir Canada Flyer Trip Planning
Air Canada requires all UK-bound passengers to meet entry requirements before boarding. Hence, timing your ETA application is key. Hence, don’t wait until the last minute.
Apply at least one week before your flight. Correspondingly, that gives enough time for processing and any corrections.
In addition, book your Air Canada flight only after confirming passport validity. Once you set your trip dates, apply for the ETA. If you don’t receive ETA approval, then you can’t fly.
So If you’re booking a last-minute ticket, then apply for the ETA immediately. Approval in under 72 hours is common, but not guaranteed.
In addition, set calendar reminders. The ETA is easy to forget if you’re juggling other travel details.
ETA Compliance with Air Canada
Air Canada checks for ETA approval during online check-in and at the airport. As such, it’s your responsibility to obtain approval.
Your ETA shares a link to your passport number. When you check in, Air Canada’s system verifies your authorization automatically.
Although you won’t need a printout of the ETA, it’s smart to keep a screenshot or email confirmation.
If your ETA is invalid or you don’t get approval, then you won’t be able to board your flight. Moreover, the airline faces fines for letting ineligible passengers fly.
Overall, be proactive and confirm approval a few days before departure. Furthermore, don’t wait until check-in to check your status.
Many travelers have had smooth experiences with ETA approval and check-in. Hence, just don’t leave anything to chance.
Special Considerations
Some travelers won’t need an ETA. These include UK and Irish citizens, UK visa holders, and residents.
If you’re a dual citizen, then you can use your Canadian passport to apply. Remember, always travel with the same passport you used in your ETA application.
Meanwhile, permanent residents of Canada also need an ETA, even if they hold a passport from another visa-exempt country.
Additionally, families traveling together should apply for each member separately. In particular, children need their own ETAs, even infants.
If you’re transiting through the UK with Air Canada and are not staying in the international transit zone, then an ETA may still be mandatory. As such, check the rules.
Final Tips for Air Canada Flyers
Traveling with Air Canada to the UK now requires ample planning. While the ETA is quick to get, it may be easy to forget about it.
As such, apply early, review your application carefully, and confirm approval before check-in. Overall, it’s the fastest way to avoid last-minute stress.
Moreover, treat the ETA like your boarding pass. Without it, your travel stops before it starts. Plan smart. Fly easy.
Furthermore, for fast, reliable, and professional ETA processing, apply via EVS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel multiple times on one ETA?
Yes. Specifically, the ETA allows multiple short visits to the UK within its validity period.
What if authorities deny my ETA application?
If you don’t receive approval, then you may need to apply for a standard UK visa. Overall, check the reasons carefully and consult UK immigration.
Do I need an ETA for a connecting flight through the UK?
If you’re transiting without entering the UK, then you don’t need an ETA. Specifically, this applies if you stay in the international transit zone.
But if you pass through UK border control for any reason, even briefly, then an ETA becomes mandatory.
Can I still board with Air Canada if I forgot to apply?
No. To clarify, Air Canada requires ETA approval before check-in for all UK-bound flights.
What are the nationalities that can already apply for an ETA?
As of April 2025, the following nationalities can start applying for the ETA:
Non-European countries
- Antigua and Barbuda,
- Argentina,
- Australia,
- Bahamas,
- Barbados,
- Belize,
- Botswana,
- Brazil,
- Brunei,
- Canada,
- Chile,
- Costa Rica,
- Grenada,
- Guatemala,
- Guyana,
- Hong Kong,
- Marshall Islands,
- Mauritius,
- Mexico,
- Micronesia,
- Nauru,
- New Zealand,
- Nicaragua,
- Palau,
- Panama,
- Papua New Guinea,
- Paraguay,
- Peru,
- Saint Kitts and Nevis,
- Saint Lucia,
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,
- Samoa,
- Seychelles,
- Singapore,
- Solomon Islands,
- South Korea,
- Taiwan,
- Tonga,
- Trinidad and Tobago,
- Tuvalu,
- United States, and
- Uruguay
European Countries
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
Photo by David Syphers on Unsplash
