Canada Passport Rules for UK Travellers
Quick answer: For Canada, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay. Most UK visitors flying to Canada need an eTA rather than a visa.
Canada travel requirements at a glance
Valid for the length of your planned stay.
Most people need either an eTA or visa to enter or transit Canada.
British citizens do not usually need a visa for short visits, normally up to 6 months.
Check any country you pass through on the way to Canada.
Official source: GOV.UK Canada entry requirements.
Passport rules: quick summary
- Canada requires your passport to be valid for the length of your planned stay.
- Most British citizens flying to Canada need an Electronic Travel Authorization.
- You may be asked for a return or onward ticket and proof of funds at border control.
- Land and sea arrivals can have different eTA rules, so check the official guidance.
Passport validity for Canada
GOV.UK says your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay in Canada.
If your passport expires close to your return date, renew early if you want extra margin for flight changes, delays or onward travel.
eTA or visa
To enter or transit Canada, most travellers need either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization, not both.
British citizens do not usually need a visa for short visits, but may need an eTA when flying to Canada.
Border checks
Canadian border officials may ask to see a return or onward ticket and proof that you have enough money for your stay.
Check official guidance if you have a criminal record, previous arrest or any uncertainty about eligibility.
Check your passport now
Use our free checker to see whether your passport looks valid for this trip.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need 6 months on my passport for Canada?
Not usually for Canada itself. GOV.UK says your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.
Do UK travellers need an eTA for Canada?
Most British citizens flying to Canada need an eTA. Land and sea arrivals can be different, so check official Canadian guidance.
Can I travel to Canada if my passport expires just after I return?
It may meet the basic passport validity rule if valid for your whole stay, but you should allow margin for delays, airline checks and transit countries.