While UK tops the popularity chart of travel destinations for most Canadians, did you know that it is the most favorite haunt of those in the 60+ age group? Not only that, 60% of Canadians make a repeat visit at least once in their lifetime, and half of UK’s Canadian visitors come from Ontario. The reason for Canadians’ high affinity towards UK is the region’s ancient history and medieval architecture. Now that’s a thought encouraging enough to get you packed for the United Kingdom!

Travelling to UK in Covid Times

It is true that the Covid pandemic has taken away a large chunk of the global traveling spirit. However, visiting UK from Canada is still pretty smooth. What makes things even easier is that the WHO has not included Canada in the list of red-flagged countries. So, only basic prohibitions are applicable for Canadians travelling to the UK. The nature of prohibitions will depend upon which region in the UK you enter – whether England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. Also, you should not have traveled to any of the red-flagged in the 10 days preceding arrival into UK. If so, you will be subjected to tighter, more uncomfortable restrictions!

Whether your port of entry is England, Scotland, or Wales, it is mandatory to self-quarantine for 10 days and undergo two Covid-19 tests during this time. Self-quarantining in Scotland should strictly be within the confines of a Managed Quarantine Facility, whereas for Wales, you can do so at the hotel/chosen accommodation or Managed Quarantine Facility.

Specifically, for Northern Ireland, you need to show negative COVID-19 test results during immigration. These results should not be more than 3 days old from the date of departure. Following negative Covid proof, fill and submit your journey and contact information through the Passenger Locator Form, after which you should self-isolate.

Applying for a UK Visa from Canada

You can obtain a UK Visa for tourism, studies, business / work engagements, marriage, medical treatment, government work, family reunion, or transit.

In fact, visiting UK as a short-term tourist, doesn’t require a visa at all! However, you will still have to present your passport with enough validity to cover your stay, confirmed hotel reservation and travel/health insurance. However, if you have a criminal record or have been refused entry on any previous occasion, then you will need a Standard Visitor Visa for whatever duration you plan to stay. You can confirm your eligibility for a UK Visa by visiting official website. Simply select the purpose of your visit from the list and you will find all the necessary information.

1. So, if your social/travel status makes you a candidate for a UK Visa, start by visiting https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk. Click the Visa Application Link most suited to your purpose of visit. For example, if you are visiting UK as a tourist, simply click the Standard Visitor Visa link to get detailed information on eligibility, acceptable duration of stay, visa fees, etc.
2. Next, prepare your application. This is an online process, wherein both application submission and fee payment are done electronically. At this stage you might also have to submit test results for TB, and pay the health surcharge, if applicable to you.
3. The third step is to prove your identity. You can either visit the Visa Application Centre (VAC) or use the UK Immigration: ID Check app.
   • In case you choose to visit the VAC, first book an appointment online. At the VAC, you will have to submit your fingerprints, photograph, documents, and passport.
   • If you use the app, you can do so within the comfort of your home. The app will help you submit your profile photo and upload the documents digitally. However, the documents will have to be scanned first.

Documentation:

• Canadian Passport with at least 2 blank pages and validity covering duration of stay.
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Employment letter or business registration documents if self-employed
• Proof of legal residence
• Flight ticket itinerary for visa and hotel reservation
• International travel insurance

Visa Application Centers

Edmonton: Suite 531, Scotia Place-Tower-2 , 10060 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, AB, T5J 3R8 Canada
Opening Hours: 09:00 – 14:00 (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday)

Ottawa: 2211 Riverside Drive, Unit 403, Ottawa Ontario, K1H 7X5
Opening Hours: 09:00 – 14:00 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)

Toronto: 2 Bloor Street West, 7th Floor, Toronto, ON M4W 3E2
Opening Hours: 09:00 – 15:00 (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday)

Vancouver: 580 Hornby Street, Suite 440, Vancouver, BC, V6C 2E7 Canada
Opening Hours: 09:00 – 14:00 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)

What documents to bring on the appointment date

• Printout of the Appointment Confirmation letter confirming the details of your appointment
• Valid Passport
• Supporting Documents
• Printout of your checklist

Preparing for your UK Trip!

The waiting time for the Visa starts from the day you submit your biometrics and documentation. The decision is fastest if your purpose of travel is tourism, holiday, marriage, or business meeting, and typically takes 3 weeks.

The UK Visa comes in the form of a sticker or vignette pasted in your passport. It contains information about your Visa Type, Visa Validity, and other Terms & Conditions. You must ascertain the accuracy of these facts and figures immediately to avoid immigration hassles after entering UK.

The only chances your Visa Application could get rejected is if you failed to show sufficient proof of financial support or missed even one document from the checklist. In either case you can re-apply and furnish all documents as per protocol.