UK ETA for Australian, Canadian & New Zealand Citizens
Citizens of Australia, Canada, and New Zealand now need a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to visit the United Kingdom. Since January 8, 2025, travelers from these Commonwealth countries must obtain digital authorization before entering England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland. Despite historical ties to Britain, the ETA requirement applies equally to all visa-exempt nationalities.
Commonwealth Connection: While Australia, Canada, and New Zealand share historical ties with the UK through the Commonwealth, this does not provide any exemption from ETA requirements. The system treats all visa-exempt nationalities identically.
ETA Requirements by Country
🇦🇺 Australian Citizens
Australian passport holders require a UK ETA for all visits to the United Kingdom. The process is straightforward, with applications accepted through the UK ETA app or GOV.UK website. Australian biometric passports (issued since 2005) work seamlessly with the app's NFC scanning features. Processing is typically fast, with most Australian applicants receiving approval within minutes.
Australians traveling to the UK often combine their trip with European destinations. Remember that the UK ETA only covers entry to the United Kingdom – separate arrangements may be needed for Schengen Area countries once ETIAS launches. The UK ETA allows stays of up to 6 months, which is convenient for Australians making the long journey and wanting to maximize their time abroad.
🇨🇦 Canadian Citizens
Canadian passport holders need a UK ETA for travel to the United Kingdom. Canadians are familiar with similar systems, as they already operate the eTA (electronic Travel Authorization) for visitors to Canada. The UK's system works on similar principles – apply online, receive electronic authorization linked to your passport, and present that passport when traveling.
Canadians frequently visit the UK for tourism, business, family connections, and as a gateway to Europe. The ETA covers all these purposes for stays up to 6 months. Canadian French speakers should note that the UK ETA application is only available in English – all questions and answers must be completed in English.
🇳🇿 New Zealand Citizens
New Zealand passport holders require a UK ETA despite the close historical relationship between the two countries. New Zealanders have traditionally enjoyed easy access to the UK, and while pre-authorization is now required, the process remains straightforward. Young New Zealanders may also be interested in the UK's Youth Mobility Scheme, which offers extended work and travel opportunities beyond what an ETA permits.
How to Apply
The application process is identical for Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand citizens:
Download the UK ETA App
Available for iOS (iPhone 8 or newer) and Android devices with NFC. The app provides the fastest processing through biometric verification.
Scan Your Passport
Photograph the data page and scan the NFC chip. Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand biometric passports are fully compatible with the UK ETA app.
Complete Facial Verification
The app captures your face to verify you match your passport photo. Ensure good lighting and remove glasses.
Answer Questions
Provide contact details, employment information, and answer questions about criminal and travel history. All questions must be answered in English.
Pay £16 Fee
Approximately AUD $32, CAD $28, or NZD $35 depending on exchange rates. Payment by credit/debit card or Apple Pay.
Receive Decision
Most applications are approved within minutes. Check your email for confirmation from UK Visas and Immigration.
Practical Considerations
Time Zone Differences
Australian, New Zealand, and some Canadian travelers face significant time differences with the UK. If your application requires manual review (rare but possible), processing occurs during UK business hours. Apply well in advance – at least a week before travel – to account for any potential delays. The 3 working day maximum processing time is measured in UK time.
Long-Haul Travel Planning
Given the distance from Oceania to the UK, travelers often plan extended stays. The UK ETA permits visits of up to 6 months, which accommodates longer trips. Your ETA is valid for 2 years, allowing multiple trips without reapplying – useful if you visit the UK regularly.
Connecting via Other Countries
Australian and New Zealand travelers often connect through Asian or Middle Eastern hubs. The UK ETA is only needed for entering the UK itself – transit requirements in connecting countries are separate matters. If transiting through the UK on the way elsewhere, you may need an ETA depending on your routing (see transit requirements).
Beyond the ETA: Other UK Options
Youth Mobility Scheme
Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand citizens aged 18-30 (up to 35 for some) may be eligible for the UK Youth Mobility Scheme visa. This allows living and working in the UK for up to 2 years – far beyond what an ETA permits. If you're planning an extended stay or want to work, explore this option.
Ancestry Visa
Many Australians, Canadians, and New Zealanders have British ancestry. If you have a grandparent born in the UK, you may be eligible for an Ancestry visa allowing 5 years of residence and work. This is more valuable than an ETA for those with qualifying family history.
Work and Study Visas
An ETA does not permit employment or long-term study. If you want to work or study in the UK beyond short courses, you'll need an appropriate visa such as the Skilled Worker visa or Student visa.
Common Questions
Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Countries Covered | Australia, Canada, New Zealand |
| ETA Required Since | January 8, 2025 |
| Cost | £16 (~AUD $32 / CAD $28 / NZD $35) |
| Validity | 2 years or until passport expires |
| Maximum Stay | 6 months per visit |
| Work Permitted | No (need Youth Mobility or work visa) |