Planning a trip to Canada? Whether you are going for a vacation, visiting family, or attending business meetings, if you’re from a visa-exempt country, you will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada by air. Don’t worry—applying for an eTA is quick and easy! Here you will get to know what an eTA is, who needs it, and how to apply, so you can focus on enjoying your trip without any travel hiccups.
What is an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals who plan to travel to Canada by air. It is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport and is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. With a valid eTA, you can travel to Canada as many times as you like for short stays (usually up to six months at a time).
However, having an eTA does not automatically guarantee entry into Canada. When you arrive, a border services officer will check your passport and other documents. You must prove to the officer that you meet the entry requirements.
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Who Needs an eTA to Travel to Canada?
There are several categories of travelers regarding the need for an eTA:
1. Countries that Require an eTA to Fly to Canada (Visa-Exempt Countries)
Citizens of the following countries need an eTA to fly to or transit through a Canadian airport:
- Europe: Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and many others.
- Asia-Pacific: Australia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan (passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan).
- Americas: Chile
- Other: Israel (national passport holders), Hong Kong (SAR passport holders)
However, if you are traveling to Canada by car, bus, train, or boat (including cruise ships), you do not need an eTA, even if you are from one of these countries.
2. Countries that Require a Visa to Travel to Canada
If you are from a country that is not visa-exempt, you will need to apply for a visa, regardless of your mode of transport. Some countries that require a visa include:
- Africa: Algeria, Egypt, Nigeria, South Africa
- Asia: China, India, Pakistan, Philippines
- Americas: Brazil, Colombia, Peru
- Middle East: Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia
3. Travellers Exempt from the eTA Requirement
Certain travelers do not need an eTA to fly to Canada:
- U.S. citizens: U.S. passport holders are exempt from the eTA requirement.
- U.S. lawful permanent residents: Green card holders do not need an eTA but must carry their green card and passport from their country of nationality.
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How to Apply for an eTA?
The process of applying for an eTA is straightforward, but it is important to follow the steps carefully to avoid issues. Here’s how you can apply:
- Visit the Official Government Website
Only apply for an eTA through the official Government of Canada website.- Apply here!
- Be cautious of third-party websites that may charge extra fees or provide incorrect information.
- Fill Out the Application Online
The application process is quick and simple, usually taking just a few minutes. Before you begin, make sure you have:- A valid passport
- A credit card to pay the fee
- A working email address to receive your eTA approval
- Pay the Application Fee
The eTA costs CAD $7 and can only be applied for one person at a time. This means if you are traveling with family members, each person must complete a separate application. - Receive Approval
Most eTA applications are approved within minutes, and you will receive the confirmation via email. However, some applications may take a few days if additional documents are required. It is always a good idea to apply for your eTA before booking your flight.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for an eTA
One of the most common mistakes travelers make when applying for an eTA is entering the wrong passport number. This mistake can cause significant delays at the airport, as the eTA is linked to your passport.
To avoid problems:
- Use the number on the top of the information page of your passport. This is the page with your photo and personal details.
- Double-check the passport number in your eTA approval email to ensure it matches the one in your passport.
If the numbers don’t match, you will need to apply for a new eTA.
What to Bring to the Airport?
Once your eTA is approved, it will be electronically linked to your passport. When you arrive at the airport for your flight to Canada, you will need to present the passport you used to apply for your eTA.
Here’s what to do:
- Check-in
When checking in for your flight, the airline staff will scan your passport to confirm that you have a valid eTA.
- Have a backup copy
While the eTA is electronic, it is always a good idea to bring a printed copy of your approval email, just in case you encounter any issues.
Important: If you do not have a valid eTA linked to your passport, you won’t be allowed to board your flight to Canada.
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Validity of the eTA
An eTA is valid for up to five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can travel to Canada as often as you like, but each stay is limited to six months or less. If you get a new passport, you will need to apply for a new eTA.
Applying for an eTA is a simple but important part of preparing for your trip to Canada if you are from a visa-exempt country. Make sure to double-check all your information when applying to avoid common mistakes, such as entering the wrong passport number. Once you have your eTA, you can travel to Canada as often as you want within its validity period.
Remember, while an eTA makes it easier to fly to Canada, the final decision about whether you can enter the country is made by the border services officer when you arrive. As long as you have the correct documents and follow the rules, your entry should be smooth and hassle-free.