Electronic Travel Authorization Canada
Do You Need An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?
While an eTA doesn’t necessarily guarantee your entry to Canada, it is a requirement for foreign nationals from visa-exempt countries arriving by flight. Therefore, if you answer “yes” to both questions below, you need to apply for an eTA:
- Are you from a visa-exempt country?
- Are you traveling to Canada or through Canada by air?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement and is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. So, if you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA.
How Entering Canada Works With An eTA
At the airport, an immigration officer will ask to see your passport and other documents and you must convince the officer that you are eligible for entry into Canada. If you are a foreign national arriving by bus, train, car or boat, you will not need an eTA.
Federal Skilled Worker Program
A federal economic immigration program for skilled workers with foreign work experience.
Federal Skilled Trades Program
A federal program for skilled tradespersons seeking permanent residence in Canada.
Canadian Experience Class
An economic immigration category for individuals with skilled Canadian work experience.
Visa-Exempt Foreign Nationals Will Need To Apply Online
Not sure if you’re from a visa-exempt country? Before you board your flight to Canada, you will need to have your eTA. Here is a list of some visa-exempt countries:
- Australia
- Austria
- Chile
- Denmark
- Finland
- Greece
- Hungary
- Japan
- Mexico
- New Zealand
- Poland
- Spain
- Switzerland
You can find the complete list on the Government of Canada website.
If you are from a visa-required country listed below, you’ll need it regardless of how you travel to Canada (car, plane, train, bus, ship):
- Afghanistan
- Argentina
- Bangladesh
- Botswana
- Cambodia
- China
- Costa Rica
- Ecuador
- India
- Iraq
- Jamaica
- Colombia
- Pakistan
- Turkey
The eTA Application Process Is Simple
Obtaining an eTA is actually quite easy! You’ll apply on the Government of Canada website and it should only take a few minutes to complete. Afterwards, your eTA will be emailed to you shortly after, however, don’t wait until the last minute to apply, especially if you’re submitting supporting documents. In this case, it may take several days to receive your eTA.
To complete the application, you’ll need your passport (make sure you put in the correct number), an email address, and a debit or credit card. And don’t fret – the application fee is not expensive. It will set you back $7.
Do International Students Need an eTA?
Foreign nationals with status as workers and students, if they need to travel and enter Canada again, yes, along with your work or study permit, you will also need to fill out an online application for an eTA or a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) depending on your country of citizenship before entering Canada. If you need help determining which one you need to apply for, this is exactly where our Oro Immigration team can come in. We’re an immigration office based in Toronto, Ontario that helps immigrants from all over the world reach their goals. Whether you’re a student, visitor or worker, we’re here for you.
Other Services
As well as assisting travelers with understanding the eTA process, we also offer a wide range of immigration services including assistance with your Express Entry profile, applying for permanent residency, studying in Canada, working in Canada, and more. Our main goal as immigration consultants is to ease our clients’ minds by helping them organize, understand and submit their paperwork or online applications in an efficient and friendly manner.
Contact Our Immigration Consultants In Toronto Today
Contact us for any of your immigration needs and to verify if you need an eTA or a visitor visa to enter Canada. Foreign international students, workers and travelers don’t need to feel confused. We provide stress-free services and treat everyone with respect.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is an eTA valid for?
An eTA is valid for up to five years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
How much does an eTA cost?
The eTA application fee is $7 CAD, payable online by debit or credit card.
Do I need an eTA if I am arriving by land or sea?
No, an eTA is only required for visa-exempt foreign nationals arriving in Canada by air.
What happens if my eTA application is refused?
If your eTA is refused, you may need to apply for a visitor visa instead, or provide additional documentation.
Can students and workers apply for an eTA?
Yes, along with a valid study or work permit, eligible students and workers may also need an eTA or Temporary Resident Visa depending on their country of citizenship.