Do You Need An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?
While an eTA doesn’t necessarily guarantee your entry to Canada, it is a requirement for foreign nationals from visa-exempt countries arriving by flight. Therefore, if you answer “yes” to both questions below, you need to apply for an eTA:
- Are you from a visa-exempt country?
- Are you traveling to Canada or through Canada by air?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement and is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. So, if you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA.
How Entering Canada Works With An eTA
At the airport, an immigration officer will ask to see your passport and other documents and you must convince the officer that you are eligible for entry into Canada. If you are a foreign national arriving by bus, train, car or boat, you will not need an eTA.
Visa-Exempt Foreign Nationals Will Need To Apply Online
Not sure if you’re from a visa-exempt country? Before you board your flight to Canada, you will need to have your eTA. Here is a list of some visa-exempt countries:
If you are from a visa-required country listed below, you’ll need it regardless of how to travel to Canada (car, plane, train, bus, ship):
The eTA Application Process Is Simple
Obtaining an eTA is actually quite easy! You’ll apply on the Government of Canada website and it should only take a few minutes to complete. Afterwhich, your eTA will be emailed to you shortly after, however, don’t wait until the last minute to apply, especially if you’re submitting supporting documents. In this case, it may take several days to receive your eTA.
To complete the application, you’ll need your passport (make sure you put in the correct number), an email address, and a debit or credit card. And don’t fret – the application fee is not expensive. It will set you back $7.
Do International Students Need an eTA?
Foreign nationals with status as workers and students, if they need to travel and enter Canada again, yes, along with your work or study permit, you will also need to fill out an online application for an eTA or a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) depending on your country of citizenship before entering Canad.