Electronic Travel Authorization- Canada Regulation For Air Travel of Foreign Nationals

The electronic travel authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement set by the Canadian government, not by an airline. The earlier version of this article said that lawful permanent residents of the United States needed an eTA. That changed on 26 April 2022, so this update follows the current pages of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Who needs an eTA

• Citizens of countries and territories that require an eTA, when they travel to or through Canada by air. They also need a valid passport, but no visitor visa.
• Citizens of some countries that normally need a visitor visa may be able to apply for an eTA instead, but only for air travel.

Who does not need an eTA

• Arrivals by land or sea. Travellers from eTA-required countries generally do not need one. The exception is arriving by sea from Saint Pierre and Miquelon, other than on a cruise ship.
• US citizens are exempt but must carry suitable identification, such as a valid US passport.
• US lawful permanent residents have been exempt since 26 April 2022. They need a valid passport from their country of nationality and proof of status, such as a valid green card.
• Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, must travel on a Canadian passport. An American-Canadian may use a Canadian or a US passport.
• Canadian permanent residents need neither an eTA nor a visitor visa, but must carry a valid permanent resident card or travel document.
• Visa-required travellers need a visitor visa. A traveller who already holds a valid visa can use it until it expires.

How to apply

1. Have ready a valid passport, an email address and a payment card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, UnionPay, JCB, or Visa or Mastercard debit).
2. Fill in the online form, offered in English and French only. It cannot be saved part-way, so have your details to hand.
3. Pay the fee straight away. It is CAN$7 and is not refundable.
4. Most applications are approved within minutes and you receive an email. If IRCC needs documents, you get instructions by email within 72 hours.

Good to know

• An eTA does not guarantee entry. A border officer decides on arrival.
• IRCC's eligibility page does not give the validity period or length of stay, so read the "about the process" information on the IRCC site before you travel.
• Apply before you book or at least well ahead of the flight, because airlines normally check for the authorization before you board.