A Canada Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a mandatory entry requirement for travelers from visa-exempt countries who are flying to Canada. It is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport and is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires. Here’s how you can obtain one:
1. Determine Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you are from a visa-exempt country. Citizens of countries like the UK, Australia, Germany, France, and Japan, among others, require an eTA instead of a visa when traveling to Canada by air. However, U.S. citizens do not need an eTA but must carry proper identification.
2. Prepare the Required Documents
To apply for a Canada eTA, you need:
- A valid passport from a visa-exempt country
- A credit or debit card to pay the application fee (CAD 7)
- An active email address to receive application updates
3. Submit an Online Application
The application process is entirely online:
- Visit the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
- Fill out the eTA application form with personal details, passport information, and travel plans.
- Double-check the information before submission to avoid errors.
4. Pay the eTA Fee
A non-refundable fee of CAD 7 must be paid online using a debit or credit card. Ensure your payment goes through, as applications are not processed without it.
5. Receive Approval (Usually Within Minutes)
Most eTA applications are approved within minutes, and you will receive an email confirmation. However, in some cases, additional documents may be requested, which could extend the processing time.
6. Link the eTA to Your Passport
Your eTA is electronically linked to your passport, so ensure you travel with the same passport you used to apply. Airlines will check for an eTA before allowing you to board a flight to Canada.
7. Travel to Canada
Once approved, you can visit Canada multiple times within the eTA’s validity period (up to five years), staying for up to six months per visit. However, the final entry decision rests with the Canadian border officers upon arrival.
By following these steps, travelers from visa-exempt countries can easily obtain a Canada eTA and enjoy a hassle-free journey.