The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a mandatory entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. Introduced in 2016, the eTA is linked electronically to your passport — there is no sticker or stamp — and must be obtained before you board any flight to Canada. The eTA does not replace a visa for citizens of countries that require a Canadian visa; rather, it applies specifically to citizens of countries that are exempt from the visitor visa requirement, such as the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Japan, South Korea, France, and dozens of other nations.
For most applicants, the eTA is straightforward and fast: the $7 CAD fee is paid online, the application takes minutes to complete, and approval arrives by email within minutes for the majority of travellers. However, some applications are flagged for additional review, in which case processing can take up to 72 hours, and IRCC may request supporting documents. Understanding who needs an eTA, who is exempt, and what to do if your application is not approved immediately is important before you book international travel.
📋 Quick Facts
- Government Fee: $7
- Biometrics: Not applicable
- Processing Time: Minutes for most applicants (automated processing). Up to 72 hours if additional documents required.
- RCIC-IRB Representation: Available — Dimple Verma R708308
Eligibility Requirements
- Required for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to or transiting through Canadian airports
- Not required for US citizens, Canadian citizens/PRs, or those travelling by land or sea
- Linked electronically to passport — no sticker or stamp issued
- Valid for up to 5 years or until passport expiry (whichever comes first)
- Multiple entries permitted
- Apply online at canada.ca — must apply before flying to Canada
Who Needs an eTA and Who Is Exempt
The eTA applies specifically to visa-exempt foreign nationals arriving in Canada by air (commercial flights or private aircraft through Canadian airports). If you travel to Canada by land or sea, you do not need an eTA — though you must still meet all other entry requirements. The following categories of travellers are exempt from the eTA requirement:
- U.S. citizens — do not need an eTA or a Canadian visa to visit Canada
- Canadian citizens — including dual citizens; must travel on a Canadian passport to fly to Canada
- Canadian permanent residents — must carry their PR card to board a flight to Canada
- Travellers with a valid Canadian visa — a visa-required national who already holds a TRV does not also need an eTA
If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country and travelling by air to Canada, you need an eTA. The IRCC website maintains the current list of visa-exempt countries; eligibility can change, so verify your country’s status before travelling.
How to Apply — Process and Fees
The eTA application is completed entirely online through the IRCC website. The process is as follows:
- Visit the official IRCC eTA application page at canada.ca and ensure you are on the official government site.
- Enter your personal information: full name as it appears on your passport, date of birth, nationality, and passport number.
- Pay the $7 CAD fee using a credit or debit card — this is the only government fee and there is no biometrics requirement.
- Receive your eTA confirmation by email — for most applicants, this arrives within minutes. The eTA is electronically linked to your passport number; keep the confirmation email for your records.
- Use the same passport when you check in for your flight — the airline’s system will verify your eTA electronically when you board.
If your application is not immediately approved, IRCC may contact you by email within 72 hours requesting additional documents such as proof of citizenship or a copy of your passport. Respond promptly to avoid delays.
Validity and Travel Tips
An approved eTA is valid for five years from the date of issue or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It permits multiple entries into Canada by air during that period. If your passport expires and you get a new one, you must apply for a new eTA — the existing eTA is linked to your old passport and cannot be transferred.
The eTA only covers air travel. If you cross into Canada by land (car, bus, train) or by sea (cruise ship, ferry), no eTA is required — though you must still be admissible to Canada. Some travellers who were denied an eTA may still be able to cross by land, but any underlying admissibility issue (criminal record, prior immigration violation) will be present regardless of the mode of entry.
If you are refused an eTA, IRCC will not typically explain the exact reason in the refusal email. You may apply for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) if you have an urgent need to travel and the eTA refusal relates to an admissibility issue. A regulated immigration consultant can advise on the best approach.
How VGIS Helps
Most eTA applications are straightforward and do not require professional representation. However, if your eTA was refused — potentially due to a criminal record, prior immigration violation, or other admissibility concern — VGIS can help you understand your options. Dimple Verma, RCIC-IRB #R708308, can assess your admissibility, advise on a Temporary Resident Permit if appropriate, and represent you in interactions with IRCC.
For complex admissibility situations, book a paid consultation at vgis.ca/book-consultation/.
Fees & Costs
| Fee Component | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Government Fee | $7 |
| Biometrics | Not applicable |
Fees current as of 2026. IRCC may update fees periodically — confirm on the official source link below before paying.
Key Documents Required
- Valid passport from visa-exempt country
- Credit or debit card for $7 CAD fee
- Email address for eTA confirmation
- Travel itinerary (flight information)
- No supporting documents typically required
- eTA is linked to passport — must use same passport to travel
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an eTA if I am only transiting through a Canadian airport?
It depends. Most visa-exempt foreign nationals transiting through a Canadian airport on their way to another destination do need an eTA. The eTA for transit purposes costs the same ($7 CAD) and is applied for in the same way. Check IRCC’s transit requirements for your specific nationality, as some exceptions apply.
How long does an eTA take to process?
Most eTA applications are approved within minutes of submission. Some applications are flagged for additional review, in which case you will receive an email from IRCC within 72 hours asking for additional documents. It is advisable to apply for your eTA at least a few days before you travel, not at the last minute.
My eTA was refused — what should I do?
An eTA refusal often indicates an admissibility concern such as a criminal record, prior immigration violation, or discrepancy in your application. You can reapply if you believe there was an error, or you may be eligible for a Temporary Resident Permit if you have compelling reasons to travel despite an admissibility issue. Consulting a regulated immigration professional is recommended before taking next steps.
I am a Canadian citizen — do I need an eTA?
No. Canadian citizens are exempt from the eTA requirement. However, Canadian citizens who also hold citizenship in another country (dual citizens) must use their Canadian passport when flying to Canada — they cannot use their other country’s passport to board a Canada-bound flight.
Does my eTA guarantee entry into Canada?
No. The eTA is a pre-clearance requirement that allows you to board a flight to Canada, but the final admission decision is made by a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer at the port of entry. The officer can refuse entry even if you hold a valid eTA, if they determine you are inadmissible or your purpose of visit is not credible.
Official Government Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta/apply.html
Start Your Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) Application Today
Get the confidence of AI-powered eligibility checks, document review, and form prep — backed by Dimple Verma, RCIC-IRB #R708308 and our experienced, knowledgeable, and professional team. Smooth processing, expert guidance, real results.
- AI Eligibility Engine
- Smart Document Checker
- Licensed RCIC-IRB
- Experienced Team
Disclaimer: This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration laws and IRCC policies change frequently. For advice specific to your case, please book a paid consultation with our licensed RCIC-IRB. VG Immigration Services Inc. — Dimple Verma, RCIC-IRB #R708308.