What is an eTA for Canada?
eTA means Electronic Travel Authorization. It is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air or transiting through a Canadian airport.
An approved eTA is electronically linked to your passport. There is no separate paper document to print as the main proof, but you should keep your confirmation email and application number for your records.
The eTA is not a visa, does not guarantee entry into Canada and does not change your immigration status. Canadian border officers make the final decision when you arrive.
Who needs an eTA for Canada?
Visa-exempt foreign nationals generally need an eTA when they fly to Canada or transit through a Canadian airport.
The requirement depends on your citizenship, travel document and method of travel. Some travelers need a visa instead of an eTA.
If you are not sure which document you need, check the official Government of Canada entry requirements before booking travel.
Who does not need an eTA?
Travelers who need a visitor visa cannot use an eTA instead of a visa. Canadian citizens, including dual Canadian citizens, cannot apply for an eTA and must travel with a valid Canadian passport.
U.S. citizens do not need an eTA to enter Canada, but they must carry proper identification. Lawful permanent residents of the United States and other special categories should check the current official rules before traveling.
Visa-exempt travelers entering Canada by land or sea may not need an eTA, but they must still meet entry requirements.
When should you apply for an eTA?
You should apply for an eTA before booking non-refundable travel when possible, and always before boarding a flight to Canada.
Most eTA applications are approved within minutes, but some applications can take longer if additional information is requested.
If you already have an eTA, check its status before departure, especially if you changed passport or have not traveled to Canada for a long time.
Information required to complete the eTA application
To apply for an eTA, prepare your passport from a visa-exempt country, a valid email address and a credit or debit card for payment.
The online form cannot be saved, so you should have your information ready before starting the application.
Enter your passport details exactly as they appear on your passport. A mistake in the passport number, issuing country or name can prevent you from boarding your flight.
Canada eTA application fee
The official Government of Canada eTA application fee is 7 CAD.
Unofficial websites may charge more for unnecessary assistance. Always verify that you are using the official Government of Canada website before entering passport details or payment information.
Step-by-step eTA application process
First, go to the official Government of Canada eTA application page. Read the instructions and prepare your passport, email address and payment card.
Then complete the online form with your personal, passport and contact information. Review every field before payment and submission, especially passport number, name, date of birth and email address.
After submitting the form, check your email for the eTA decision. Most applications are approved within minutes, but some travelers may need to submit additional documents.
Can you update or correct an eTA application?
If you made a mistake in your passport information, you may need to apply again. The eTA is linked to the passport used in the application.
If you get a new passport, you need a new eTA before flying to Canada.
Check your eTA status through the official Government of Canada tools if you are unsure whether your authorization is still valid.
eTA validity and multiple trips
An approved eTA is generally valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
With a valid eTA, you can travel to Canada multiple times for short stays, as long as you continue to meet entry requirements.
The final length of stay is decided at the border. Many visitors are allowed to stay for up to six months, but this is not guaranteed for every traveler.
eTA for transit through Canada
Visa-exempt foreign nationals generally need an eTA even when they only transit through a Canadian airport.
Transit rules can depend on your citizenship, route and travel document. Check the official Government of Canada website before booking connecting flights through Canada.
eTA official website and scam warnings
The official eTA website is operated by the Government of Canada. You should use it when submitting passport, personal, contact and payment information.
Be careful with unofficial websites that charge higher fees, imitate government pages or claim that paid assistance is required. The official eTA application costs 7 CAD and can be submitted directly online.
eTA and Canada visa rules
The eTA is for eligible visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling by air. It is not a visa and it does not replace a visa when a visa is required.
If you want to work, study, stay long term, immigrate or travel for a purpose not covered by ordinary visitor rules, check the correct Canadian permit or visa category before departure.
