Guide on Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to Canada

Canada is the second biggest nation globally and has a diverse geography and scenic vistas. It is home to a plethora of spell-binding attractions – captivating natural wonders, gorgeous lakes, alpine forests, snowcapped mountains, spectacular wildlife, and incredible historical spots. Most people require a valid passport, a visa, or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to visit this great country, depending on their nationality. In this post, we cover all the details about Electronic Travel Authorization. Do you want to know more? Keep reading!

What are the types of Canada visas?

A Canada visit visa is an official document issued by the Canadian Embassy or Consulate that allows you to enter Canada and stay there for up to six months. Single-entry and multiple-entry visas are the two types of Canada visas, and in most cases, applicants are automatically granted a multiple-entry visa. You need either a visitor visa or an eTA and not both to enter the country.

What is an Electronic Travel Authorization?

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required for all visa-exempt foreign nationals entering Canada by air or transiting through a Canadian airport. The eTA is given by Immigration, Refugee, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Benefits of having an ETA

• Valid for 5 years or until your passport expires
  Unlike a visitor visa, an ETA is valid for multiple entries over a 5 year period or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
• Multiple-entry travel permit
  You can exit and re-enter Canada as many times as you want within the validity period as long as you do not exceed the maximum 6 month stay per visit.
• Allows stays up to 6 months per visit
  With an ETA, you can stay in Canada as a tourist for up to 6 months per visit which gives you plenty of time to explore the country.
• Easy and fast online application
  The entire ETA application process is done online and only takes about 10 minutes to complete. You will usually get approved right away.
• Cheaper than a tourist visa
  At just $7 CAD, the ETA is much cheaper than applying for a regular tourist visa to Canada which costs around $100 CAD.
• Minimal documents required
  Unlike other more complex visas, you only need your passport, an email address, and a credit or debit card to successfully apply for an ETA.
• Paperless travel authorization
  Once approved, your ETA is electronically linked to your passport so you do not need to carry any printed approvals.

Who needs an eTA to travel to Canada?

A visa-exempt foreign national requires an eTA if the person is flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport. You do not need an eTA if you enter Canada by road, rail, or sea.

You must apply for an eTA (instead of a visitor visa) if traveling by air to Canada from any of these countries.

Additionally, other countries

• British National (Overseas)
• British overseas
• citizen (re-admissible to the United Kingdom)
• British overseas territory citizen with citizenship through birth, descent, naturalization, or a registration in one of the British Overseas Territories of:(Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Falkland Islands (Malvinas), Gibraltar, Montserrat, Pitcairn Island, Saint Helena, Turks and Caicos Islands)
• British Subject (with a right of abode in the United Kingdom)
• Taiwan (should have an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that includes the personal identification number)
• United Arab Emirates
• Vatican City State (must have a passport or travel document issued by the Vatican).

Who is exempt from the eTA requirement?

Citizens of the USA are exempt from applying for an eTA. However, they must carry proper identification, such as a valid U.S. passport.

As of April 26, 2023, lawful permanent residents of the United States of America are also exempt from the eTA requirements. They must show these documents for all modes of travel to Canada:

• a valid passport from their country of nationality (or a similar acceptable travel document) and
• a valid green card (or similar valid proof of status in the United States)

How to apply for eTA for Canada?

Applying for an eTA is a simple and quick online process.

• Keep your passport and debit/credit card ready.
• Go through the application help document. (Available in several languages)
• Fill out the online form to apply for eTA.
• Pay CAD 7 for your eTA right once you complete filling out the form.
• Receive an email about your eTA application. (If you change your email id after applying for an eTA, you must update your new email id on the IRCC website.

Note: Most applications are approved within minutes, but some may take longer to process. Sometimes, you may need to submit additional documents before your application can be approved. An email will be sent with instructions within 72 hours if other documents are required to be submitted by you or what are the next steps.

After your eTA is approved, kindly check the passport number in your eTA approval email to be the same as that on your passport. You need to apply for a new eTA with the correct passport number if they are different.

How long does it take to process the eTA for Canada?

Getting an eTA for Canada is mostly a quick process; most applicants get their eTA approval via email within a few minutes. Sometimes, you may have to submit supporting documents, and your request may take many days to process.

• It is always better to apply for an eTA before you book your flight to Canada.
  *All approved eTAs are valid for up to five years or until your passport expires, whichever happens first. If you apply for a new passport, you must also apply for a new eTA.

Tips and advice for an ETA

Here are 7 important tips to ensure a smooth ETA application and hassle-free travel into Canada:

• Apply 72 hours before travel
  Although approval is usually instant, give at least 3 business days for processing time before your departure.
• Double check the entry requirements for your country
  Some nationalities may have additional entry or travel documentation requirements.
• Carefully review all names/details match passport
  Any discrepancies between your ETA and passport could cause delays or denial of entry at the border.
• Know the Biometric Verification Process
  The process of appointment for Canada biometrics is simple and straightforward. You need to pay the biometric fee, receive an instruction letter, and book an appointment at a biometric collection site near you. You must bring your valid passport and the instruction letter when you give your fingerprints and photo.
• Check your ETA status before travel
  Log back into your ETA account to confirm it was approved before your trip.
• Always print your ETA as a backup
  Although the ETA is electronically linked to your passport, printing it provides an extra layer of assurance.
• Do not mess up the photo requirements
  Following the Visa Photo Requirements for Canada is crucial to avoid any cancellations or visa rejections.
• Pay close attention upon entry
  Be prepared to show your ETA approval email and passport at immigration/customs when you arrive.
• Understand the Canada ETA validity period
  The ETA is typically valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Remember that a new ETA is required if you get a new passport, even if your current ETA hasn’t expired. Keep track of your ETA’s expiration date to ensure you always have valid authorization for air travel to Canada.
• Know the restrictions
  Be aware of what you can/cannot do in Canada with your visitor status ETA.

Conclusion

Canadian visa and eTA rules keep changing, so it is advisable to check the regulations for your country before starting the process. Canada has unique experiences for every visitor; you will have the time of your life when you visit this wonderful country.

FAQ’s