VisitBritain shares a reminder on the ETA for travel to Britain 

The start date for the legal requirement of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for travel to Britain is fast approaching, VisitBritain said in a reminder on the change.

From Feb. 25, 2026, the UK Home Office has upcoming changes to travel requirements for nationalities that do not require a visa for short stays of up to 6 months – and that includes Canadians.

VisitBritain notes that: “We understand that changes to UK entry requirements can raise questions for both travellers and advisors, particularly during transition periods. To support you in helping visitors navigate these changes, we’re sharing the latest information provided by the UK Home Office.”

What are the changes

From Feb. 25, 2026, Canadians who do not require a UK visa for short stays of up to six months, will require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to travel to the UK. Eligible visitors without a valid ETA will not be able to board their transport and cannot legally travel to the UK.

Dual British or Irish citizens cannot apply for an ETA and instead require one of the following to travel to the UK:

• A valid British passport
• A valid Irish passport
• A valid passport with a Certificate of Entitlement

Policy and operational processes around these new travel requirements sit with the Home Office. While VisitBritain does not determine or implement these policies, we are actively passing on the questions and concerns raised by industry, travellers and partners to the Home Office.

VisitBritain said in its reminder that: “We recommend reviewing and sharing the official resources below with your teams and clients to ensure accurate and up-to-date advice. These materials are maintained by the Home Office and the links provided will reflect the latest information and updates.”

Key resources

• Specific advice for dual citizens: Electronic travel authorisation (ETA): guide for dual citizens – GOV.UK 
• Check if you are a British Citizen: Check if you’re a British citizen: Overview – GOV.UK
• Apply for an ETA: https://www.gov.uk/eta/apply
• All other ETA-related information: https://www.gov.uk/eta
• UKVI webchat for individual enquiries: Electronic travel authorisation (ETA) – Contact UK Visas and Immigration for help – GOV.UK