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Digital travel screening for visa-exempt foreign nationals entering or transiting Canada by air.
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.
An Electronic Travel Authorization, or eTA Canada, is an online entry requirement allowing more efficient and secure travel to Canada. 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.
eTA Canada 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 examination by a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) 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 before boarding. Once issued, an eTA is valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires.
Applying for an eTA is a simple online process. However, you should apply for an eTA before you book your flight to Canada.
To apply for an eTA, you must have a valid passport from a visa-exempt country, a valid credit or debit card, and an email address. You must get an eTA to enter or transit Canada by air unless you're exempt.
To apply for a Canada eTA, you will need the following biographic passport details:
To apply for an eTA, you can use the online portal form. The application process takes only a few minutes, and the official government application fee is CAD $7.00.
If your eTA is approved, you will receive an email confirmation. Your eTA will be digitally linked to your passport number, and airline staff will scan your passport before boarding. Most applications are approved within minutes, but some can take up to 72 hours if IRCC requests additional documents.
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Find out if your passport country qualifies for 5-year digital eTA entry to Canada.