What is eTA Canada?

What is eTA Canada?

eTA, or Electronic Travel Authorization, is a mandatory travel document for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. It’s electronically linked to your passport and is valid for up to five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Having an eTA allows you to fly to, or transit through, a Canadian airport. However, it doesn’t guarantee entry into Canada. A border services officer will ask to see your passport and other documents when you arrive.

How to apply for eTA Canada?

You can apply for eTA online through the Government of Canada’s official website. Here are the steps:

1. Access the online application form through the official website or visit How to apply for eTA Canada.
2. Fill in the required information such as your passport details, personal information, and answer a few simple background questions.
3. Pay the application fee using a credit or debit card.
4. Wait for an email confirmation which usually arrives within minutes but could take up to 72 hours in some cases.

Remember that each traveler, regardless of age, needs his or her own eTA. Also note that the process requires you to have a valid passport, email address and a credit or debit card.

What documents are needed for eTA Canada?

To apply for an eTA Canada, you will need:

• A valid passport from a visa-exempt country
• A credit or debit card to pay the application fee
• An email address to receive the eTA approval

In some situations, additional documents may be required:

• For minor children (under 18), a letter from parent or legal guardian, and adoption papers or custody decree if the child is travelling alone.
• If you were invited to Canada, a letter from the person or company that invited you.

It’s important to note that having an eTA doesn’t guarantee your entry to Canada. You must convince the officer that you are eligible for entry and will leave Canada at the end of your approved stay.

How will I get my eTA Canada?

You will receive an email notification once your eTA is approved. This email includes your eTA number which you should keep for future reference. The approval process is usually fast and in most cases, you’ll get an email within minutes of applying. However, some requests may take several days to process. It’s important to check your junk mail folder as some spam filters may block automated emails.

Do I need to print out my eTA Canada?

No, there’s no need to print out your eTA. Your eTA is electronically linked to the passport you used in your application. When you check-in for your flight, the airline staff will scan your passport to confirm that you have a valid eTA. Without it, you won’t be able to board your flight.

What do I need to do on arrival in Canada?

Upon arrival in Canada, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and other travel documents. They’ll check your identity to ensure that you’re the same person who was approved to travel to Canada. Your fingerprints may be checked automatically at a primary inspection kiosk at one of the 10 major Canadian airports or during a secondary inspection at smaller airports and all land ports of entry. If you pass the identity check, health assessment, and meet the entry requirements, the officer may stamp your passport or let you know how long you can stay in Canada.

You’re normally allowed to stay in Canada for up to 6 months. In some cases, the officer may limit or extend your time in Canada to cover the planned purpose of your visit. Remember, you must convince the officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your stay and obey the conditions of your temporary resident status.

Inadmissibility can occur due to criminal activity, human rights violations, organized crime, security, health, or financial reasons and can result in being denied entry into Canada. Therefore, it’s crucial to be honest and upfront with all information when applying for an eTA.