electronic travel authorization canada requirements

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Entering Canada

On this page, by private boat, required identification, permanent residents, travelling with children, you and the border services officer.

Whether you’re returning home or visiting, you’ll follow the same 3 steps to enter Canada:

Step 1. Pre-arrival: Use Advance Declaration or complete a Declaration Card

If you’re arriving by air at one of Canada’s participating international airports, you can save time at the border. Submit your customs and immigration declaration online using Advance Declaration up to 72 hours before you arrive in Canada.

If you choose not to submit your declaration in advance, you can complete it at an airport kiosk or eGate. If you’re landing at an airport without kiosks or eGates, you’ll receive a Declaration Card on board the aircraft or other conveyance. Read the instructions and complete the card before you arrive. Have it ready to present to Canadian officials at the airport, along with your identification and other travel documents. If you're travelling with children, please have their documentation ready as well.

If using a Declaration Card, detach and discard the instructions. To help us serve you faster, do not fold the card.

Everyone arriving in Canada must complete a declaration. You can list up to 4 people living at the same residence on one card, or 8 people per Advance Declaration submission.

The Declaration Card or Advance Declaration submission tells us what we need to know about you, your travels and what you’re bringing into the country.

Connecting to another flight

If you’re connecting to another flight or travelling on to another destination and re-boarding the same plane, follow the signs. At some airports, you may have to check your baggage and have it screened again.

If you travel frequently our trusted traveller programs can help

If you're a member of a trusted traveller program, you can skip Step 2 and go directly to the automated kiosks or eGates for faster processing.

Step 2. Arrival: First CBSA checkpoint

When you arrive at the terminal, follow the signs to the first Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) checkpoint, also called “primary inspection.”

If you used Advance Declaration, go to a kiosk or eGate to retrieve your confirmed declaration receipt. Up to 5 people may use a kiosk as a group upon arrival.

Next, a border services officer will examine your:

• Declaration Card or Advance Declaration kiosk receipt
• your identification
• other travel documents

The officer may ask you a series of questions to determine:

• your immigration status
• the type of any goods you're bringing with you
• your duty-free allowance
• your personal exemption entitlements

Goods not properly declared that are restricted or prohibited in Canada can, under the law, be seized.

Newcomer or coming to Canada to study or work

If you’re a newcomer to Canada, coming to study or work in Canada, you may need to present further documentation. The officer will help guide you through this process. You may ask the officer for help if you don’t speak English or French well.

Step 3. Baggage and second CBSA checkpoint

Go to the baggage claim area. If you must pay duty and taxes, you can pay at most major airports while waiting for your luggage.

Once you’ve picked up your luggage:

• go to the next CBSA checkpoint
• Declaration Card, Advance Declaration kiosk or eGate receipt
• receipt, if you paid duty and taxes for your goods

The officer may direct you to a secondary inspection area.

Here, officers may ask you:

• for detailed information about your travels
• to present your luggage and goods for examination

This is a normal part of the travelling process. Your cooperation is appreciated and helps us ensure the safety of Canada, its economy and its residents.

If you’re arriving by land, follow the signs to the first checkpoint, also called “primary inspection.” Here, a border services officer will examine your identification and other travel documents and take your verbal declaration.

Visit U.S. to Canada border wait times for estimated wait times at certain locations.

If you’re arriving by private boat, go directly to a designated marine telephone reporting site and call the CBSA Telephone Reporting Centre (TRC) at 1-888-226-7277 to obtain clearance.

Private boaters that meet certain conditions may report to the CBSA by calling the TRC using cell phone from their location in Canadian waters.

Learn more about reporting requirements for private boaters.

Make sure you carry proper identification for yourself and any children travelling with you to help confirm your legal right to enter Canada. Canada has introduced a new entry requirement, known as an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), for certain international travellers who fly to Canada.

Read about the changes and how they may affect you.

The Government of Canada recommends that Canadian citizens travel with a valid Canadian passport because it’s the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel.

International transportation companies such as airlines may require travellers to present a passport before boarding. Canadian citizens may face delays or may not be allowed to board the plane or other conveyance if they present other documents such as a:

• Enhanced Driver's License (EDL)/Enhanced Identification Card (EIC)
• NEXUS card (used where the program is available)
• Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card used in FAST lanes
• Canadian citizenship card
• Certificate of Indian Status
• Birth certificate in combination with either a driver's licence or a government-issued photo identification

Permanent residents (immigrants living in Canada who are not yet Canadian citizens) need a valid permanent resident card to return to Canada. Check the expiry date on your card.

Note that a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document.

See Canadian Citizenship for further details.

Parents who share custody of their children should bring copies of the legal custody documents to the border when travelling with their children.

A consent letter should be used for all cross-border travel when a child is travelling:

• with only 1 parent or guardian
• in the care of friends or relatives
• with a group, such as a sports, school, musical or religious group

Example of a consent letter to permit travel by a child with a single custodian or parent.

When travelling with a group of vehicles, parents or guardians should arrive at the border in the same vehicle as the children.

Adults who aren’t parents or guardians should have written permission from the parents or guardians to supervise the children. The consent letter should include addresses and telephone numbers where the parents or guardian can be reached.

Border officers watch for missing children, and may ask detailed questions about the children who are travelling with you.

You may occasionally find yourself going through a more detailed inspection. In some cases, this simply means that you may have to complete a form. In other cases, the border services officer will need to identify the goods you’re bringing into the country or examine your luggage.

Border services officers are legally entitled to examine your luggage as part of their responsibility to protect Canada's safety, economy and environment. You are responsible for opening, unpacking and repacking your luggage.

By making your goods easily accessible for inspection and having your receipts handy, you will be helping the CBSA to help you. It’s a good idea to keep all your receipts for accommodation and purchases, and for any repairs done to, or parts bought for, your vehicle. The border services officer may ask to see them as evidence of the length of your stay and of the value of the goods or repairs.

If you disagree with the amount of duty and taxes that you have to pay, please ask to speak with the CBSA superintendent on duty. A consultation can often resolve the issue quickly and without cost. If you’re still not satisfied, our officers can tell you how to make a formal appeal.

Border services officers may arrest an individual for an offence under the Criminal Code (for example, impaired driving, outstanding arrest warrants, stolen property, abductions/kidnappings) and for infractions under other acts of Parliament (for example, the Customs Act , the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act ).

If you’re arrested, you may be compelled to attend court in Canada. You should note that anyone arrested in Canada is protected by and will be treated in accordance with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms .

Related links

• Bringing goods to Canada
• Traveller entry requirements
• Travel documents
• Programs for trusted travellers
• Travelling as a dual citizen

What is electronic travel authorization and who needs to worry about it?

Screening affects people who don't need visas to visit canada, including britons, europeans, australians.

Social Sharing

A British grandfather misses his great-granddaughter's birthday party in Nova Scotia. A comedian doesn't make it to a Toronto gig . Canadians with dual citizenship face logistical headaches when they try to head home for the holidays.  

In each case, Canada's recently implemented electronic travel authorization (eTA) policy is getting the blame. Citizens of more than 50 countries who can visit Canada without a visa now need to complete an electronic screening before they're allowed to get on the plane.

• New travel requirement keeps man out of Canada over Christmas

"They figure, you know, 'I'm from a visa-exempt country, I travelled [to Canada] ... two years ago,'" said Henry Chang, an immigration legal expert with the Blaney McMurtry law firm in Toronto. "They don't realize the law has changed."

Who is affected by the eTA?

The electronic travel authorization, or eTA, is an online pre-screening of people from more than 50 countries who can travel to Canada by air without a visa, including Britain, Australia, European nations, Japan and others.

It's supposed to help catch people who might pose a security risk or who might stay in Canada longer than is legal, since these travellers don't go through the formal vetting process required by those who need to get a visa. 

It's essentially a "basic pre-screening of visa-exempt individuals who might not otherwise have this screening done," Chang said. 

• Travel requirement catches Canada-bound comedian by surprise

U.S. citizens are exempt from the new rule. 

And electronic travel authorization only affects people coming to Canada by air. Travellers arriving by land or by sea don't need it. 

When did this program come into effect?

The electronic travel authorization program was supposed to take effect on March 15, 2016, but after the Canadian travel industry voiced concerns about lack of awareness of the new requirement, the government allowed a grace period. Officials started requiring eTAs from travellers in November.   

Does it affect Canadian travellers?

Not when Canadians use their Canadian passports while travelling. Canadian citizens and permanent residents don't need an electronic travel authorization to get back into the country. In fact, they are ineligible to apply for one. 

But some dual citizens (holding citizenship in Canada and another country) have run into problems when using their other passport to travel. If they use a foreign passport and try to get on a plane to Canada, the system says they need to get an eTA — but they can't because they are Canadian citizens. So dual citizens must now use their Canadian passports to avoid being caught in that travel quagmire.

• Dual citizens need Canadian passports

Chang believes that problem was "inadvertent," and that the implication for dual citizens "wasn't very well publicized." Once officials realized it was an issue, "it was a little too late," he said. 

"It was an incidental effect of the eTA program that they didn't really anticipate until later."

How do people complete the eTA?

The electronic travel authorization form is on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website . Travellers fill it out online. Applicants need their passport information, as well as a credit card to pay the fee of $7 Cdn. Once the eTA is approved, it's linked to the traveller's passport. They don't need to complete it again for five years or until their current passport expires, whichever comes first.   

"Most applicants get their eTA approval (via an email) within minutes," the Citizenship and Immigration website says. "However, some requests can take several days to process if you're asked to submit supporting documents. It is best to get an eTA before you book your flight to Canada."

Airlines check to make sure that Canada-bound passengers have completed the eTA, which is why many people who didn't know about the requirement have been filling it out in airports right before their flights. In some cases, there have been problems and passengers have missed their flights. 

What kinds of questions are on the eTA?

The eTA application form asks for the traveller's address, passport information, employment status, how much money they have available for their visit to Canada and whether they have ever applied to enter Canada before. Other questions that appear on the form include:

• "Have you ever been refused a visa or permit, denied entry to, or ordered to leave Canada or any other country/territory?"
• "Have you ever committed, been arrested for, been charged with or convicted of any criminal offence in any country/territory?"
• "Have you or a family member ever had or been in close contact with a person with tuberculosis?"
• "Do you have a serious health condition for which you are receiving medical treatment?"

How does the process work?

The electronic travel authorization is an "automated screening system at the first stage," Chang said, so people usually get their approval back via email right away. But if there's an answer that triggers concern, such as a previous criminal offence, the application would be escalated to a "human officer" to make a judgment call and could take longer, he said. 

When did Canada decide to require eTAs?

The Canadian government's commitment to develop electronic travel authorizations for visa-exempt foreign nationals was mentioned in the  border security plan  jointly released with the U.S. in 2011. The American government already had a similar system in place, called the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). 

The U.S. was likely the "driving force with Canada getting on board with this," said Chang. The idea was the two countries, with their shared border, should have the same level of security screening for people entering both countries. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nicole Ireland is a reporter with The Canadian Press.

With files from Yvonne Colbert, Shannon Martin and Susana Mas

Related Stories

• Federal communications budget for eTAs 'inadequate,' says tourism group
• Electronic travel authorization program trips up permanent residents
• New requirement catches some travellers to Canada by surprise
• Dual citizens heading home for holidays need Canadian passports
• Canada gives visa-exempt travellers 6 months to comply with electronic travel authorization

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Visiting Canada

Do I Need an eTA for Canada? – Electronic Travel Authorization

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a travel document required for travellers coming to Canada from visa-exempt countries. Only individuals from visa -exempt countries are required to get an eTA, and only if they are arriving in Canada by air.

What is an ETA? 

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to or transiting through Canada.

Only travellers from countries who do not require a visa to visit Canada are required to get an eTA, and only if they are travelling to Canada by air. If you’re from a visa-exempt country visiting Canada by land, you do not need an eTA.

Anyone who has a Canadian visa, Canadian  permanent residence , or  Canadian citizenship  does not need an eTA travel document to enter Canada.

Do I need an eTA?

1. lawful permanent residents and canadian citizens.

Lawful permanent residents of Canada, do not need an eTA. Instead, you will need your valid  Permanent Resident Card  (PR Card) or Permanent Resident Travel Document to travel to Canada.

If you are a dual citizen, meaning you hold Canadian citizenship and at least one other citizenship, you do not need an eTA to enter Canada. However, if you are entering Canada by air, you must be travelling with a valid Canadian passport.

2. Foreign nationals

Answer the following simple questions to find out if you need an eTA Canada travel document:

• Am I part of the visa-exempt foreign nationals? Check the updated list on the government website: Visa-exempt (eTA eligible) travellers list. The previous list of travellers need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to board their flight to Canada.
• Am I travelling to or through Canada by air?Even if you are an eTA eligible , you do not need an eTA if entering by land or sea – for instance, driving from the U.S. or coming by bus, train, or boat, including cruise ship.

FAQ about eTA for traveling to Canada

Do i need an eta if i have a valid study permit or work permit.

If you are from a visa-exempt country and have been granted a study permit or  work permit , IRCC will automatically issue you an eTA when they accept your study or work permit application.

However, if you are from a visa-exempt country and received your permit before August 1, 2015, you may need to apply for an eTA if you plan to leave and return to Canada by air.

Do U.S. citizens need to apply for an eTA?

U.S. citizens  do not require a visa or an eTA  to travel to Canada. If you are a U.S. citizen, you can visit Canada with your valid passport.

As of April 26, 2022, U.S. permanent residents ( Green Card holders ) no longer require an eTA to travel to Canada.

How to apply for an eTA

Travellers must apply for an eta by submitting their application on the  Government of Canada website . To apply, you must have a valid email address.

How much does an eTA for Canada cost?

The Canadian government charges $7 CAD for an eTA. To make the payment, applicants must have a valid debit or credit card.

What does an eTA look like?

Since an eTA is a digital document, it is electronically tied to your passport number. As such, you will not receive a physical document from the Government of Canada.

How long is an eTA valid for?

An eTA is valid for five years upon approval, or when your passport expires, whichever comes first. To check whether your eTA is still valid, use Canada’s  eTA status check tool .

How long does it take for an eTA for Canada to be approved?

The Canadian government approves most eTAs within minutes. However, the processing sometimes takes longer. If you are required to submit additional documents, you may receive instructions to do so within 72 hours of applying.

Interested in coming to Canada permanently? Discover your options today with our free online assessment!

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Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Citizens of certain countries are exempt from the requirement to obtain a temporary resident visa (trv). for these individuals, the government of canada has introduced what is known as electronic travel authorization (eta)..

Before the eTA system was introduced, visa-exempt foreign nationals seeking entry to Canada were not systematically screened for admissibility until they arrived at a Canadian Port of Entry.

The eTA is mandatory for most visitors from countries whose citizens do not require a TRV who are entering Canada by air. Citizens of visa-exempt countries intending to travel to Canada by air are expected to have applied for an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before their departure to Canada. Exceptions to this include citizens of the United States, who do not require a TRV or an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), and Green Card holders in the United States, who need an eTA to come to Canada, regardless of their nationality.

Countries with Conditional Eligibility

• Country Checklist

The Canadian pre-approval system is only required for TRV-exempt individuals seeking to enter Canada by air to visit on a temporary basis. To read a comprehensive list of frequently asked eTA-related questions and answers,  click here . 

Individuals requiring an eTA in order to visit Canada are asked to fill out some personal information and answer a few basic questions relating to criminality or medical issues.

To complete the online form, you need:

• a valid passport from a visa-exempt country,
• a credit card to pay the $7.00 CAD fee,
• a valid email address, and
• access to the internet and a few minutes of your time.

The eTA will be valid for a period of five years from the day on which it is issued to the applicant or until the earliest of the following days, if they occur before the end of that period:

• the day on which the applicant’s passport or other travel document expires,
• the day on which the electronic travel authorization is cancelled, or
• the day on which a new electronic travel authorization is issued to the applicant.

The eTA includes the applicant’s name, date and place of birth, gender, address, nationality, and passport and/or travel document information. If the applicant is unable to make the application by means of the electronic system because of a physical or mental disability, it may be made by another means, including a paper application form.

There are a number of exemptions from the requirement to obtain an eTA. Click this slide to review of list of exemptions.

• Nationals of the United States.
• Her Majesty the Queen of Canada and any member of the Royal Family.
• Citizens of France who are residents of St. Pierre and Miquelon who seek to enter Canada directly from St. Pierre and Miquelon.
• Visitors, students and workers, who seek to re-enter Canada after solely visiting either the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, providing that they return to Canada by the end of the period initially authorized for their stay or any extension to it.
• possess proper documents to enter the United States and their flight is bound for that country, or
• They were lawfully admitted to the United States and their flight originated in that country.
• Foreign nationals who are passengers on a flight that, owing to an emergency or other unforeseen circumstances, makes an unscheduled stop in Canada.
• Foreign nationals seeking to transit through Canada under the Transit Without Visa or China Transit Program.
• Foreign nationals who hold a passport that contains a diplomatic acceptance, a consular acceptance or an official acceptance issued by the Chief of Protocol for the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade on behalf of the Government of Canada and are properly accredited diplomats, consular officers, representatives or officials of a country other than Canada, of the United Nations or any of its agencies, or of any international organization of which Canada is a member.
• As a crew member of a means of transportation that may be used for transportation by air or to become a member of such a crew, or
• To transit through Canada after working, or to work, as a crew member of a means of transportation that may be used for transportation by air, if they possess a ticket for departure from Canada within 24 hours after their arrival in Canada.
• Foreign nationals seeking to enter and remain in Canada solely to carry out official duties as a member of the armed forces of a country that is a designated state for the purposes of the Visiting Forces Act , unless they have been designated under that Act as a civilian component of those armed forces.
• Foreign nationals seeking to enter and remain in Canada solely to conduct inspections of the flight operation procedures or cabin safety of a commercial air carrier operating international flights, if they are a civil aviation inspector of a national aeronautical authority and possess valid documentation to that effect.
• Foreign nationals seeking to enter and remain in Canada solely to participate as an accredited representative or as an adviser to an aviation accident or incident investigation conducted under the Canadian Transportation Accident Investigation and Safety Board Act , if they possess valid documentation to that effect.

Citizens of some countries may be eligible for an eTA if they meet all three of the following conditions. If not they will have to pursue a TRV to travel to Canada. 

To be eligible for an eTA these travellers must:

• The U.S. nonimmigrant visa must be valid on the day that an individual applies for their eTA, but doesn’t need to be valid when they travel to Canada.
• be coming to Canada for a short visit, business or tourist activity (normally for stays of up to 6 months); and
• arriving to Canada by air, or transiting through a Canadian airport using a valid passport from one of the eligible visa-required countries. 

These conditional eligibility rules for an eTA apply to citizens of the following (visa-required) countries:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Philippines
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago

Country Checklist: Electronic Travel Authorization

TRVs are required for citizens of certain countries. The chart below outlines which individuals require a TRV and which individuals need an eTA in order to enter Canada.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

Contact the Cohen Immigration Law Firm for Assistance

Do you need professional assistance getting Canadian TRV? The Cohen Immigration Law Firm can help. We offer over 45 years of Canadian immigration expertise.

Please complete our short form to submit your question directly to our law firm. One of our lawyers will contact you to schedule a free telephone consultation.

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2023-06-05T07:49:00

Find out if you need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada.

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Updated: June 5th, 2023

Are you planning a trip to Canada any time soon? If so, you may need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before entering the country. This is a requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. The eTA is a digital document that links your passport to your travel information and is valid for up to five years. Applying for a Canada eTA is a simple process that can be done online, and it typically takes only a few minutes to complete. 

However, it's important to note that not all travelers are eligible for an eTA, and certain requirements must be met to be approved. This page breaks down what is eTA, who needs it, and how to apply for it to prepare you for your upcoming trip to Canada.

What Is eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)?

An Electronic Travel Authorization, or eTA Canada, is an online entry requirement allowing more efficient and secure travel to certain countries. The primary purpose of an eTA is to pre-screen travelers before they board their flights or arrive at their destinations, ensuring that they are eligible to enter the country in question. Various countries worldwide, including eTA Canada, have implemented this electronic system. The eTA system simplifies the travel process for eligible visitors, streamlining entry procedures while maintaining high levels of security and immigration control.

eTA Canada is a specific example of an Electronic Travel Authorization system implemented by the Canadian government. This system allows citizens from visa-exempt countries to apply for travel authorization online and receive it electronically, eliminating the need for a physical visa stamp in their passports. It is important to note that an eTA does not guarantee entry into Canada, as travelers must still meet all other entry requirements and undergo an examination by a border services officer upon arrival.

One of the main advantages of a Canada eTA is its ability to enhance security measures for both the traveler and the host country. By pre-screening visitors, potential security risks can be identified and addressed before they enter the country. Additionally, electronic systems provide a more efficient means of data collection, allowing authorities to monitor patterns and trends in international travel more effectively.

Furthermore, a Canada eTA simplifies the overall travel experience for eligible visitors. By reducing the need for physical visa stamps and allowing travelers to apply online, the eTA system eliminates the need to visit a consulate or embassy in person. This saves time and reduces the potential stress and inconvenience of obtaining a traditional visa.

The eTA system minimizes the hassle often associated with traditional visa applications by providing a user-friendly online platform for travelers to obtain authorization. Additionally, the electronic nature of the system allows for increased efficiency and security monitoring, ultimately benefiting both the traveler and the host nation. As international travel continues to grow and evolve, more countries will likely adopt similar eTA systems in the years to come.

How to Apply for an eTA Canada

Applying for an eTA is a simple online process. However, you should apply for an eTA before you book your flight.

Step 1 - Check Your Eligibility

To apply for an eTA, you must have a valid passport from a visa-exempt country, a valid credit card, and an email address. You must also get an eTA to enter or transit Canada by air unless you're exempt.

You need an eTA if you're a:

• Visa-exempt foreign national and you're flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport
• As a visa-exempt foreign national, you do not need an eTA (or a visitor visa) when arriving by car, bus, train, or boat (including a cruise ship).

You may be eligible to apply for an eTA (instead of a visitor visa) if you're a:

• Citizen from select visa-required countries, and you're traveling to Canada by air.
• However, you still need a visitor visa (not an eTA) when arriving by car, bus, train, or boat, including a cruise ship.

Travelers That Don't Need an eTA

U.S. citizens don't need an eTA or Visitor's Visa but must carry identification like a valid U.S. passport. If you're a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., you'll need to present a valid green card and a valid passport.

Canadian permanent residents and citizens don't need an eTA. Canadian permanent residents must have a permanent resident card or travel document. Canadian citizens and dual Canadian citizens can travel with a valid Canadian passport.

American Canadians can travel with a valid Canadian or U.S. passport.

You don't need an eTA if you're visa-required. However, you will need a Visitor's Visa to enter Canada. You may be eligible to apply for an eTA (instead of a visitor visa) if you're a citizen of  select visa-required countries and traveling to Canada by air. However, you need a visitor visa (not an eTA) when arriving by car, bus, train, or boat, including a cruise ship.

Below is a list of visa-exempt nationals that will need an eTA if traveling by air or transit through an airport in Canada:

Step 2 - Gather Your Documentation

To apply for a Canada eTA to travel to Canada, you will need the following documentation: 

• A valid passport from a visa-exempt country 
• Birth date and place of birth,
• Marital status,
• Nationality, and
• Passport number
• A valid credit or debit card An email address

Step 3 - Apply Online and Pay Your Fees

To apply for an eTA, you can use the online form on the Government of Canada's official website. The application process only takes a few minutes, and the fee for an eTA is CAD 7. Learn more about Canadian immigration fees .

After You Apply

If your eTA is approved, you will receive an email confirming you can travel to Canada by air. Your eTA will be linked to your passport, and you must show your passport to airline staff whenever you board a flight to Canada. Most applications are approved within minutes, but some can take longer. You may need to submit additional documents before your application can be approved. If this happens to you, an email will be sent with instructions within 72 hours.

When you receive your eTA Canada, it will be linked to the passport you used to apply. You need to present this passport when you check in to your flight to Canada. The airline staff will scan your passport to confirm that you have a valid eTA. If you do not have one, you won't be able to board your flight. Upon arrival at a Canadian port of entry, travelers must satisfy a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) border services officer (BSO) that they meet the requirements for entry into Canada. 

The eTA does not replace the need for a passport. You must still carry proper identification for yourself and any children or minors traveling with you. You must confirm your legal right or authorization to enter Canada at the border.

How Long Does it Take to Get an eTA?

Getting an eTA before booking your flight to Canada is best. Most applicants get their eTA approval (via email) within minutes. However, some requests can take several days to process if you're asked to submit supporting documents.

Confirm your passport number is correct. Once your eTA is approved, check that the passport number in your eTA approval email matches the number on your passport. You need to apply for a new eTA if they don't match. Learn more about Canadian visa processing times .

Is an eTA the Same as an eVisa?

No, and eTA is different from a visa. An eTA can only be obtained by citizens of countries that participate in Canada's Visa Waiver Program. eVisas, on the other hand, are often available to inhabitants of almost all nations and territories.

How Long Can I Stay in Canada With an eTA?

You can usually stay in Canada for up to six months with an eTA. However, the time you can stay in Canada will be determined by the border services officer at the Canadian port of entry.

Do I Need an eTA for Canada if I Have a Visa?

You do not need an eTA if you visit Canada by land from a visa-exempt nation. Likewise, anyone entering Canada with a Canadian visa, permanent residence, or citizenship does not require an eTA travel document.

What is the Difference Between eTA and Visa Canada?

Foreign nationals requiring visas to enter Canada must get Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs), often called entry visas. In contrast, Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) permits foreign citizens from visa-exempt countries to enter Canada without a visa .

Getting To Canada, the Electronic Way

Now that you know what is eTA and how to apply, the far more important step is to find which visa or immigration pathway is right for you before you arrive. This will depend massively on your reasons for going to Canada, how long you plan to stay in Canada, and your eligibility. One of the best ways to determine this is to speak to an immigration professional like a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), who can help you determine the right pathway for you and help you maximize your chances of qualifying!

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Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for Canada

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If you are traveling to Canada by air you likely require either a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Your requirements depend on your country of citizenship.

If you’re travelling from a visa-exempt country, you’ll require an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) in order to enter. You can quickly and easily apply for an eTA online for a cost of only CAD$7. While eTAs are often granted in a matter of minutes, it can take several days, so you should always apply ahead of time.

Notably, U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents of the U.S. are exempt from the eTA requirement.

Once your eTA is approved, it will be valid for five years or until your passport expires. There are a number of exemptions  where an eTA will not be required. These include:

• Visitors arriving by land or sea.
• Those with permanent residency – however, they will need to travel with their permanent resident card.
• Citizens and lawful permanent residents of the United States.
• Travellers with a valid Canada visa.
• Passengers on a flight that, because of an emergency or other unforeseen circumstances, makes an unscheduled stop in Canada.

What is a visa-exempt country? Canada requires citizens of certain countries to apply for a visa in order to enter. However, many countries are visa-exempt, meaning that citizens can enter Canada without an official visa. Here’s a breakdown by country:

Not sure if you need a visa or eTA? Click here to find out.

Eta fees and application process.

The eTA is an additional requirement that air passengers will need to follow – meaning they will still be required to show their passport and follow all existing documents and identification rules.

Accepted payment methods for the CAD$7 fee include credit cards and debit cards.

The application should only take a few minutes, and an eTA will usually be granted a few minutes later. IRCC advises that last-minute applications, while not recommended, are possible and can be made on any device with an internet connection, including mobile phones.

Since launching the eTA requirement in 2016, Canada has issued more than 4 million eTAs annually in an average year.

• To apply for an eTA, and for more information,  you can visit the IRCC website .

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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Canada’s current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Canada set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Canada.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Canada, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from Canada, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport. 

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through Canada, most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization ( eTA ) – not both.

Check if you need a visa or an eTA online .

You do not need a visa for short visits (normally up to 6 months). You may need an eTA instead.

You do not need an eTA , if you are:

• arriving by land and sea – you must have acceptable travel documents and ID
• a British-Canadian dual national – you must have a valid Canadian passport

See Canada’s entry requirements for full details of eTA and visa requirements.

Contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK if you are unsure about visa requirements or your eligibility to enter the country, for example, if you have a criminal record or have been arrested.

Checks at border control

Canadian border officials may ask you to show a return or onward ticket and proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay, even if you are staying with family or friends.

Visas for permanent residence, study or work

See information on visas for permanent residence, study or work in Canada .  

Transiting through Canada

If you are travelling through Canada (transiting) by air, you must have an eTA or a transit visa.     

If you have questions, contact:

• your airline
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
• your nearest Canadian high commission, embassy or consulate

Find out more about transiting Canada .

Visa and eTA scams

Some unauthorised websites charge for submitting visa applications. These websites are not associated with the Canadian government.

You can check your eTA status online with the Canadian government . If it has been 72 hours since you applied, and you have not received confirmation of your application, complete an enquiry form .   

Travelling with children

If a child travels alone or with only one parent or legal guardian, they should carry a letter of consent from the non-travelling parents or guardians. Immigration officers have the right to question children using simple and appropriate language to see if there are any concerns about child abduction.

For more information, check with the Canadian High Commission in the UK or the Canada Border Services Agency .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Canada guide . 

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Canada . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

The Canadian authorities will confiscate banned food products and you could get a fine. For more information, see importing food, plants or animals to Canada .

If you visit a farm or have contact with wild animals before entering Canada, and plan to visit a farm during your stay, you must declare this on your Customs Declaration Card. For more information, see biosecurity at the Canadian border .

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What is an Electronic Travel Authorization?

• June 12, 2023

Foreign nationals from visa-exempt countries arriving in Canada by air are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) prior to their trip. This is a requirement whether they want to visit the country or only to pass through in transit.

Do I need an Electronic Travel Authorization?

You need an eTA if you are travelling to Canada by air from a visa-exempt country .

The following are exempt from requiring an eTA:

• Those who have already obtained a valid visa to enter Canada.
• Anyone entering by land or sea.
• Armed Forces visiting Canada on official duty.
• Flight crew, civil aviation inspectors, accident investigators.
• French citizens who live in and are travelling from St. Pierre and Miquelon.
• Persons entering from the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, while holding valid status in Canada (visitor, student or worker) .
• Accredited diplomats.
• Canadian citizens and dual citizens (provided you are travelling on a Canadian passport)
• Canadian permanent residents (you need your PR card or point of entry documentation)
• US citizens and permanent residents.

Latest Canada eTA News

• Do Not Get Scammed: Canada eTA Costs Only $7
• Canada eTA: Why Thousands Are Renouncing Their Canadian Permanent Resident Status
• Canada eTA Dual Citizenship Rules Cause Passport Processing Delays

How do I get an Electronic Travel Authorization?

You can apply for an eTA through the Canadian federal government website.

Before you apply, you will need:

• Valid passport
• Valid email address
• Credit card to pay the $7 fee

When should I apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization?

The Canadian government advises you to apply as soon as you know your travel itinerary.

However, an eTA can be obtained at the last minute via a smartphone. All you need is an internet connection. The email authorization often only takes a few minutes to come through. However, some requests can take several days to process if supporting documents are requested.

There is no requirement to print an eTA. It is electronically linked to your passport or travel document.

How long is an Electronic Travel Authorization valid for?

An eTA is valid for five years or until your passport or travel document expires, whichever comes first.

There is no limit on the number of entries to Canada, as long as the eTA is valid.

Colin R. Singer

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ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) . Authorization via ESTA does not determine whether a traveler is admissible to the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers determine admissibility upon travelers’ arrival. The ESTA application collects biographic information and answers to VWP eligibility questions. ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel, though it is recommended that travelers apply as soon as they begin preparing travel plans or prior to purchasing airline tickets.

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I am an American citizen. What do I need to enter Canada?

American citizens, including American-Canadian citizens, must carry proper identification and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada . You do not need a Canadian passport, a Canadian visa or an eTA to enter Canada if you are travelling with a valid U.S. passport.

New entry requirement now in effect

Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens , and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.

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Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): What you need to know

If you plan to visit Canada by air, you may need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) .

Find out how easy it is to apply online. Learn how to get your eTA before you book your flight to Canada.

This video is also available in HD on YouTube where you can leave a comment, share it on your social network or embed it into your site.

Transcript: “Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): What you need to know”

Video length: 2:13 minutes

Animated video

Pleasant, upbeat music plays. A red suitcase is shown. Various articles of clothing appear in the suitcase, one by one. Suitcase closes by itself.

Narrator: When you’re planning to travel, you know that being prepared is important. It’s the best way to travel — stress free.

Canada flag sticker appears on the suitcase.

Text displays: “ A change you should know about ”.

Narrator: To make sure your visit to Canada goes as smoothly as possible, here is a change you should know about if you are travelling by air.

A tablet appears in front of the suitcase. Text: “eTA – Electronic Travel Authorization”, appears on its screen against a background of an airplane in flight.

Text displays: “ You may need an e TA before you fly to or transit through Canada. ”

Narrator: It’s called eTA—electronic travel authorization. You may need an eTA before you board your flight to Canada, even if you are just transiting through the country. Exceptions include American citizens and visitors with a valid visa.

Text displayed beside tablet: “ Exceptions include American citizens and visitors with a valid visa ”.

Narrator: It’s best to get your eTA before you book your flight to Canada. You may not be able to fly without it.

Text displayed beside tablet: “ Get your e TA before you book your flight To Canada ”.

Text displayed on the tablet: “eTA – Electronic Travel Authorization – Apply”.

Text displayed beside tablet: “ Simple – inexpensive – a few minutes to complete ”.

Narrator: Getting your eTA is a simple, inexpensive, online process, which takes just a few minutes to complete.

A passport, a credit card and an envelope appear around the tablet.

Narrator: All you need is your passport, a credit card, an email address and access to the Internet.

A wireless keyboard appears in front of the tablet. A padlock appears beside the tablet.

Text displayed beside the tablet: “ Safe and secure ”.

Narrator: The process is completely safe and secure.

A finger taps the “Apply” button on the tablet. Examples of information are entered into form fields on the tablet, and a finger taps the submit button.

Text displayed on the tablet: “ The fee is only CAN$7. ”

Narrator: You will enter basic personal information like your name, passport number, email address, answer a few simple questions and submit your application. The fee is only CAN$7. In most cases, the eTA will be granted within minutes of applying.

A ticking clock is shown on the tablet. The clock turns into a checkmark on a green background.

Two thin slots in the suitcase open. A keyboard and tablet slide into the suitcase.

The suitcase is then shown on a conveyor belt.

Text displays above the suitcase: “ Your e TA is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires ”.

Narrator: Once approved, your eTA is valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

A world globe is shown. An airplane and flight lines are shown converging on Canada.

Narrator: This means you can fly to Canada without reapplying so long as your eTA and passport remain valid.

An airplane is shown on the ground and a hand holding a passport approaches the plane. A line comes off the passport and points to the text “eTA”.

Narrator: To make sure that you can board your flight to Canada, you will need to travel with the passport you used to apply for your eTA as the eTA is electronically linked to it. If in doubt, you can always check the status of your eTA on Canada.ca/eTA.

Text appears on the tablet against a sky background: “Canada.ca/eTA”.

To find out more, including who needs an eTA and who doesn’t, visit Canada.ca/eTA. See you in Canada!

An airplane takes off over the text: “Canada.ca/eTA”.

Citizenship and Immigration Canada corporate signature followed by the Canada wordmark are shown on a white background.

Fade to black.

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