About the eTA
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to Canada. It’s electronically linked to your passport and valid for up to 5 years, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. With a valid eTA you can travel to Canada as often as you like for short stays, normally up to 6 months at a time. You only need a visitor visa or an eTA, never both.
Who Needs One
Most visa-exempt travellers flying to (or transiting through) a Canadian airport need an eTA. You do not need one if you’re a Canadian citizen (including dual citizens — you need a valid Canadian passport instead) or a Canadian permanent resident (you need a PR card or PR travel document instead).
Lawful permanent residents of the United States are exempt from the eTA requirement but must show a valid passport from their home country plus proof of US permanent resident status.
Eligibility for Visa-Required Citizens
Citizens of some visa-required countries can still apply for an eTA instead of a full visitor visa if they meet certain conditions — for example, holding a Canadian visitor visa within the past 10 years, or currently holding a valid US nonimmigrant visa.
How to Apply
- Apply only on the official Government of Canada website — the process takes a few minutes
- You’ll need your passport, a credit card, and an email address
- Cost: CAD $7
- Most approvals arrive by email within minutes; some take several days if supporting documents are requested
- Apply for your eTA before booking your flight
An eTA doesn’t guarantee entry — a border services officer will still review your passport and documents on arrival and must be satisfied you’re eligible to enter.
How We Help
We help confirm whether you need an eTA or a full visitor visa, and can review your application before submission if you’ve had a prior refusal or complex travel history.