Do you need a visa to visit Canada from the UK: Canada travel requirements

Canada’s vast natural landscapes and vibrant cities attract many British tourists each year. Whether you’re planning a holiday in Toronto or a visit to Niagara Falls, you’re likely curious about the entry requirements.

You might be wondering: Do I need a visa to visit Canada from the UK? This guide provides details about entry requirements, visa types, documents and application procedures.

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Do I need a visa to visit Canada from the UK?

No, UK citizens do not need a visa for short visits to Canada. British passport holders can enter Canada for tourism, business, or family visits for stays of up to six months without a visa.¹

However, UK travellers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before boarding a flight to Canada. The eTA is not a visa, but it’s a mandatory online authorisation linked to your passport.¹

Entry requirements for Canada

Even without a visa, there are entry requirements for UK nationals travelling to Canada.

The first one applies to your passport being valid for the duration of your stay. However, it’s recommended that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. If you’ll be travelling through other countries on your way to Canada, you might not be allowed entry if you don’t meet this requirement.¹

Canadian border officials may also ask for proof of return or onward travel, as well as details of accommodation. You might be asked to provide proof of sufficient funds for your stay, even if you’re staying with family or friends.¹

If you plan to work, study or stay longer than six months, you will need the appropriate Canadian visa or permit.¹

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) is required for UK citizens travelling to Canada by air, but you won’t need it if you’re entering the country by air or land. Applying for an eTA usually takes just a few minutes online and it’s done through the official Government of Canada website. You’ll likely get confirmation within minutes. Your eTA will be valid for up to five years or until your passport expires.²

Types of visas available for Canada

While most UK visitors do not need a visa for short stays, there are various visa and permit options for longer stays or specific purposes.

The first one is a visitor visa. For UK citizens, a visitor visa is generally not required for short stays, but it may be needed in exceptional cases or if travelling by land or sea.¹

If you plan on working in Canada, depending on the length of your stay and nature of your work, you’re either considered a business visitor or you’ll need a work permit. Those staying in Canada for less than six months without entering the Canadian labour market are business visitors. This includes individuals staying for up to a few weeks to attend conferences or business meetings.³

There are several types of work permits in Canada, such as open permits. Participants of the International Experience Canada (IEC) programme which includes the Working holiday visa get this type of permit. Make sure you look into all available categories so you could find the right one for your circumstances.⁴

UK citizens who want to study in Canada for more than six months must apply for a study permit. If you get it, you’ll automatically be given an eTA.⁵

And if you’re a UK citizen planning to live in Canada permanently, look into permanent residence visas. Popular programmes include the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Programme and the Start-up visa.⁶

How to apply for a visa

Since each visa type has its own requirements and documentation, you should first determine what type of visa you need. If you’re going for a tourist visit, just make sure you obtain an eTA.

Most other visa applications are handled through the Canadian Government’s immigration department called IRCC. You can use their online portal to apply for work and study permits, the Express Entry programme and various other.⁷

Documents vary by visa type, but you usually always need a valid passport, passport photos and proof of financial means. Other types might require proof of medical or travel insurance, as well as school admission proof.

How much does a Canada visa cost?

UK citizens travelling to Canada for less than six months don’t need a visa, but the eTA costs 7 CAD. Other visas or permits have higher fees, so work and study permits cost around 150 CAD and the International Experience Canada programme has a 185 CAD fee.⁸

It’s important to check the official Canadian government website for the most up to date fees, as they may change.

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Travelling to Canada from the UK for short stays doesn’t require a visa, but an eTA is mandatory for air travel. If you plan to work, study, or move to Canada permanently, you’ll need the appropriate visa or permit.

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Sources used:

1. Gov.uk - Canada entry requirements
2. Canada.ca - eTA
3. Canada.ca - business visitors
4. Canada.ca - International Experience Canada
5. Canada.ca - study permit
6. Canada.ca - live in Canada permanently
7. Canada.ca - IRCC account
8. Canada.ca - fee list

Sources last checked on date: 09-Dec-2025