What Is the Canada eTA?
Canada's Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a mandatory entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals who wish to fly to or transit through Canada. It is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for up to five years or until your passport expires — whichever comes first.
The good news: the application is entirely online, takes only a few minutes to complete, and approval often arrives within minutes. Here's exactly how to do it correctly.
Before You Begin: What You'll Need
- A valid passport from an eTA-eligible country
- A valid email address to receive your approval
- A credit or debit card to pay the CAD $7 application fee
- Basic personal information (name, date of birth, address)
- Your travel plans (though these are not required to be finalized)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Go to the Official Government of Canada Website
Always apply through the official Government of Canada website at canada.ca. Many third-party sites charge significantly higher fees for the same service. The official fee is just CAD $7 per applicant.
Step 2: Complete the Online Form
The application form asks for:
- Personal details — full name, date of birth, gender, and country of citizenship
- Passport information — number, issue date, expiry date, and country of issuance
- Contact information — email address and home address
- Background questions — health, travel history, and criminal record declarations
- Travel details — optional but helpful to have ready
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
The fee is CAD $7 and is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. Payment is accepted by major credit and debit cards. Keep your payment receipt for reference.
Step 4: Submit and Wait for a Decision
Most applicants receive a decision within minutes via email. However, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) advises that some applications may take several days if additional review is needed. Do not book non-refundable flights until you have your eTA confirmed.
Step 5: Check Your Email and Confirm
You'll receive an email confirming your eTA is approved. Your eTA number will also be linked directly to your passport — no need to print anything. Simply travel with the same passport you used to apply.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying on a third-party site — these often charge much more than the official CAD $7 fee
- Using the wrong passport — your eTA is linked to a specific passport; if you renew your passport, you need a new eTA
- Waiting until the last minute — although most are approved quickly, apply at least 72 hours before travel
- Answering background questions carelessly — be honest and accurate; discrepancies can cause problems at the border
How Long Is a Canada eTA Valid?
Once approved, your eTA is valid for up to five years or until your passport expires. Each stay in Canada can be up to a maximum of six months. You can enter and exit Canada multiple times during the validity period without reapplying.
What If Your Application Is Refused?
If your eTA is refused, you may still be able to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) at a Canadian consulate or embassy. IRCC does not always provide detailed reasons for refusal, but common causes include prior immigration violations, criminal history, or incomplete information.
Summary
Applying for a Canada eTA is straightforward: visit the official website, fill in your details, pay CAD $7, and receive approval — often within minutes. Just make sure you apply with the same passport you'll be traveling with and give yourself enough lead time before your trip.