Canada’s Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an essential part of modern travel regulations and a cornerstone of Canada’s streamlined approach to border security. Designed to simplify short-term travel for eligible foreign nationals, the eTA Canada program allows citizens of visa-exempt countries to fly to Canada without the need for a traditional visitor visa. It makes tourism, business visits, and transit travel much more accessible.
However, despite the process being simple and fully digital, travelers—especially first-timers—still face confusion about eligibility, application steps, and what exactly the eTA allows. To address this, we’ve compiled answers to the top 10 most common eTA Canada questions, helping you prepare confidently for your trip.
Overview of Canada eTA
What is the eTA?
Canada’s Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an electronic entry requirement for foreign nationals from visa-exempt countries who wish to fly into Canada. Launched in 2015, it acts as a digital pre-screening tool linked directly to your passport and valid for up to five years—or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Unlike a traditional visa, an eTA does not involve in-person appointments or document submissions. It is quick, cost-effective (just CAD $7), and typically approved within minutes. The eTA only applies to air travel; those entering Canada by land or sea do not need one.
Why is it necessary?
The eTA was created to enhance border security while providing low-risk visitors with a faster and smoother travel experience. It allows Canadian immigration authorities to evaluate travelers before boarding a plane, helping to flag potential inadmissibility issues such as past criminal records, visa refusals, or health concerns.
This proactive approach not only strengthens Canada’s borders but also reduces airport congestion and entry processing times. It mirrors similar programs used in the U.S. (ESTA) and the EU (ETIAS), ensuring Canada remains secure and welcoming.
Visa-exempt countries
Before flying to Canada, travelers from visa-exempt countries such as the UK, Australia, France, Germany, and Japan must apply for an eTA. However, if you’re entering by land or sea, the eTA is not required.
This guide on How to Get Your Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) walks you through the steps of applying.
Top 10 Most Common Questions About Canada’s eTA
1. What Is an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for Canada?
The Electronic Travel Authorization is a digital screening tool implemented by the Canadian government in 2015. It is a requirement for foreign nationals from visa-exempt countries who wish to fly into Canada for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
The eTA is electronically linked to your passport and remains valid for up to five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During that time, you can enter Canada multiple times without reapplying, provided your passport and eTA remain valid.
It is important to note that the eTA is not a visa and does not guarantee entry. Instead, it allows you to board your flight to Canada, where a border services officer will determine whether you are permitted to enter the country.
The eTA application process is quick, cost-effective (CAD $7), and entirely online, making it an efficient solution for short-term travel to Canada.
2. Who Needs an eTA to Travel to Canada?
An eTA is required for foreign nationals from visa-exempt countries who plan to fly to Canada. If you’re wondering who needs eTA to Canada, check IRCC’s official list of visa-exempt countries and entry requirements.
This includes countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, France, and Japan, among others. U.S. permanent residents now need a valid passport from a visa-exempt country in addition to their Green Card when applying for an eTA. Canadian dual citizens cannot use an eTA and must travel with a valid Canadian passport—even if their other nationality is visa-exempt.
You will need an eTA if:
- You are from a visa-exempt country.
- You are flying to Canada for tourism, business, or to transit through the country.
- You are not already a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
You do not need an eTA if:
- You are a U.S. citizen (though U.S. permanent residents do require one).
- You hold a valid Canadian visa.
- You are entering by land or sea (e.g., driving in from the U.S. or arriving by cruise).
- You are a Canadian citizen, including dual citizens, or a Canadian permanent resident (in which case you must travel with your PR card or PRTD).
This clarification is crucial, as eTA questions Canada often revolve around who actually needs to apply. Always verify your status before booking travel to avoid delays or denied boarding.
3. How Do I Apply for an eTA for Canada?
The process is entirely online:
- Visit the official Canadian government website.
- Fill in your personal details, travel info, and passport data.
- Pay the fee (usually CAD $7).
- Receive email confirmation (often within minutes).
If you’re wondering how to apply eTA for Canada, this is the simplest and fastest method to get approval. This is also one of the most common Canada eTA application questions, especially for last-minute applications.
4. How Long Can I Stay in Canada with an eTA?
With an eTA, you can generally stay in Canada for up to six months per visit. However, border officers at your point of entry determine the exact duration. It’s crucial to understand that an eTA is not a visa. It simply grants permission to board your flight and seek entry to Canada; final admission is granted at the border.
This makes “how long can I stay in Canada with an eTA” one of the most frequent inquiries. If you’re still wondering how long can I stay in Canada with an eTA, always check with border services upon arrival.
5. How Long Is an eTA Valid For?
An eTA is typically valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can use it for multiple entries as long as it remains valid.
6. What Are the Processing Times for an eTA?
Most eTAs are approved within minutes. However, in some cases, processing can take a few days if you’re asked to submit additional documents.
7. Can I Travel to Canada with a Criminal Record?
This is one of the most sensitive eTA Canada questions. Canada has strict admissibility rules regarding past criminal records. Even a DUI conviction can make someone inadmissible.
If you have a record, consult Canadian immigration or legal experts to determine if you need a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) or rehabilitation before traveling.
8. What Happens If My eTA Application Is Refused?
If your application is refused, you’ll receive an email with reasons for the refusal. You may:
- Reapply with corrected or additional documents.
- Apply for a visa instead if you’re found ineligible for an eTA.
9. Can I Extend My Stay in Canada with an eTA?
While the eTA allows you to enter Canada, your authorized length of stay is decided by border officials—usually six months. If you want to stay longer:
- Apply for a visitor record before your status expires.
- Extensions are not automatic and must be justified.
10. What Documents Do I Need for My eTA Application?
The main document you need is a valid passport from a visa-exempt country. You’ll also need:
- A valid email address
- A credit/debit card for payment
- Access to the internet to fill out the form online
No printed documents or embassy visits are required. While biometrics are part of many visa processes, they are not required for eTA applicants. The process is digital and hassle-free.
Conclusion
Canada’s eTA system is one of the most traveler-friendly in the world, but it’s natural to have questions before you apply. By answering the top eTA Canada frequently asked questions, this guide aims to simplify the process for you.
Tip: Apply for your eTA well in advance of your travel date to avoid last-minute issues. Travel safe and enjoy your Canadian adventure!
