The Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a mandatory online entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals, excluding U.S. citizens. Introduced by the Government of Canada, it streamlines the application process, enhancing border security and facilitating travel for eligible visitors. The eTA, valid for up to five years or until passport expiration, is linked electronically to the traveler’s passport, underscoring Canada’s commitment to a secure immigration process while ensuring a smooth entry for visitors.
- The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is mandatory for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to Canada, linked to the passport and valid for up to five years for multiple short stays.
- Eligibility includes travelers exempt from traditional visitor visas; others must apply for a visitor visa.
- Requirements: valid passport, email address, and a credit/debit card for the application fee.
- Application process involves document preparation, online form completion, fee payment, and receiving the eTA number via email.
- Processing usually takes minutes, with refusal consequences including non-refundable fees.
- After approval, travelers receive a confirmation email with the eTA number, crucial for passport matching.
- Before boarding, verify passport and eTA; additional documents may be needed for minors.
- At the Canadian border, officers review documents, assess entry eligibility, conduct a brief health assessment, and grant entry if cleared (usually for six months).
-
-
Which Countries Are Visa-Exempt?
Visa-exempt travelers eligible for Canada’s Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) include individuals from a diverse range of countries, such as:
- Andorra, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, and British citizens, including those with specific affiliations like British National (Overseas), British overseas citizens, and British overseas territory citizens from territories such as Anguilla, Bermuda, and Gibraltar. Other eligible nations encompass Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) residents with a Hong Kong SAR passport. The list continues with Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel (with a national Israeli passport), Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Papua New Guinea, Poland, Portugal, Romania (for electronic passport holders only), Samoa, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan (with an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs), United Arab Emirates, and Vatican City State (with a passport or travel document issued by the Vatican).Travelers from these nations require an eTA for air travel to Canada but are exempt if entering by land or sea.
-
FAQs
How long is an eTA valid, and what determines its duration?
An eTA is typically valid for up to five years or until passport expiration, allowing multiple visits with each stay lasting up to six months.
When is an eTA required, and under what travel conditions is it applicable?
An eTA is necessary for air travel to or transiting through Canada for citizens of visa-exempt countries. However, it is not required for land or sea travel.
Does having an eTA guarantee entry into Canada?
No, having an eTA does not guarantee entry. Entry is determined by meeting border officer requirements upon arrival.
Note: “The information herein is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Read our complete Legal Disclaimer on Website”
