Traveling from Toronto to London: Passport and UK ETA Required

Toronto is one of Canada’s main international hubs for travel to the United Kingdom. Every year, thousands of Canadian, European, and international travelers depart from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to London for tourism, business, studies, or short city breaks.

⚠️ Important update: Since Brexit, entry rules for the UK have changed.
A flight ticket alone is no longer enough — a valid passport and, depending on your nationality, a UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) are now mandatory.

👉 This up-to-date guide explains everything you need to travel from Toronto to London without stress — and how to get your UK ETA online in minutes.

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🌍 Can you travel easily from Toronto to London?

✅ Yes — but only if all entry requirements are met.

Direct flights Toronto → London

Toronto offers multiple daily direct flights to London year-round. However, pre-boarding checks are strict, and missing documents can lead to denied boarding.

When departing from Toronto, airlines will verify:

🛂 Passport validity
📄 UK ETA status (if required)
🎫 Right to enter the UK

💡 Traveler tip: Even for a short weekend trip, make sure all documents are ready before arriving at the airport.

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🛂 Passport required to travel from Toronto to London

To enter the United Kingdom from Canada:

❌ Canadian ID cards are not accepted
✅ A valid passport is mandatory

Passport requirements

• Valid for the entire stay
• In good physical condition
• Clearly readable information page

💡 Important: Some airlines departing from Toronto Pearson may refuse boarding if your passport is close to expiration.
👉 It is strongly recommended to have at least 6 months of remaining validity.

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🎫 UK ETA: who must apply when traveling from Toronto?

The UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is required for many travelers who do not need a traditional UK visa.

Who must apply for a UK ETA from Toronto?

• 🇨🇦 Canadian passport holders
• 🇪🇺 European citizens
• 🌍 Travelers from UK visa-exempt countries

⚠️ Key rule:
👉 The city of departure does not matter — your nationality determines whether an ETA is required.

Who does NOT need a UK ETA?

• British passport holders
• Travelers with a valid UK visa
• UK permanent residents

💡 The UK ETA is electronically linked to your passport and does not replace it.

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📝 How to get a UK ETA from Toronto

The process is 100% online and must be completed before departure.

Simple steps

1️⃣ Complete the official ETA application
2️⃣ Enter passport details exactly as shown
3️⃣ Answer security questions
4️⃣ Pay the online fee (≈ €29)
5️⃣ Receive confirmation by email (minutes to 48 hours)

💡 Tip: Any mistake in passport details may result in an automatic rejection.

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✈️ Direct flights from Toronto to London

Toronto → London Heathrow (LHR)

⏱️ Flight time: ~7h30
✈️ Airlines: Air Canada, British Airways
➡️ Best for business travel and premium comfort

Toronto → London Gatwick (LGW)

⏱️ Flight time: ~7h45
✈️ Airlines: WestJet, Air Transat
➡️ Balanced option for budget and comfort

💡 Traveler tip: Morning departures often experience faster immigration processing in London.

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📂 Documents to prepare before departure

✅ Mandatory documents

• Valid passport
• Approved UK ETA (if required)
• Return ticket or proof of onward travel
• Proof of accommodation in London

📎 Strongly recommended

• Travel insurance
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Invitation letter if staying with family or friends

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🌡️ Best time to travel

Destination	Best period	Notes
🇬🇧 London	April → October	Mild weather, outdoor activities
🇨🇦 Toronto	April → October	Easy to combine both city trips

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💰 Average 5-day budget – Toronto vs London

Category	Toronto	London
🏨 Accommodation	€700	€1,140
🚇 Transport	€60	€90
🎡 Activities	€180	€200
🍽️ Extras	€100	€50
Total	≈ €1,040	≈ €1,480

💡 London is more expensive, but offers unmatched cultural diversity and attractions.

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❓ FAQ – Traveling from Toronto to London

Is the UK ETA required for a weekend trip?
👉 Yes, even for short stays.

Can I travel with a one-way ticket?
👉 Yes, but proof of onward or return travel is recommended.

Do I need to print my ETA?
👉 No, a digital copy is sufficient.

What if my passport expires soon?
👉 Renew it before booking your flight.

Do children need a UK ETA?
👉 Yes, all visa-exempt travelers — including minors — must have one.

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🧭 Conclusion

Traveling from Toronto to London is straightforward if you prepare properly:

✔️ Valid passport
✔️ UK ETA requested in advance (if required)
✔️ Flights booked and documents ready
✔️ No last-minute stress at the airport

👉 Final tip: Apply for your UK ETA several days before departure and keep a digital copy accessible at all times.