Maple News reports that Canada’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) offers a simplified and low-cost entry option for foreign nationals from visa-exempt countries arriving by air. Designed as a digital pre-screening tool, the eTA is electronically linked to the traveller’s passport and remains valid for up to five years or until the passport expires—whichever comes first.
An eTA permits multiple entries into Canada, typically for stays of up to six months at a time. It is important to note, however, that possession of an eTA does not guarantee entry—final admission is determined by Canadian border officers upon arrival. The application fee is CAD $7 and must be completed online via the Government of Canada’s official website.
Travellers who require an eTA include visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to or transiting through Canadian airports. However, it’s not needed for those entering Canada by land or sea. U.S. citizens do not require an eTA, and Canadian citizens—including dual citizens—must travel on a Canadian passport. Canadian permanent residents also do not qualify for an eTA and must instead carry a valid PR card or PR travel document.
Some nationals from traditionally visa-required countries may now be eligible to apply for an eTA under specific conditions, often connected to previous travel history to Canada or the United States. However, stateless persons and those without proper documentation must still obtain a visa regardless of travel method.
The online application requires a valid passport, an email address, and a credit card for payment. While most applications are approved within minutes, some may require additional processing time. Once granted, the eTA is digitally tied to your passport, and travellers must fly with the same passport used during the application process. At the airport, airline personnel scan the passport to confirm the linked eTA before boarding.
Canada classifies countries into two lists: eTA-eligible (visa-exempt) and visa-required. The eTA-eligible list includes countries such as Australia, Japan, Germany, and South Korea, while visa-required countries include India, China, and Nigeria. Citizens from countries marked with an asterisk may qualify for an eTA under certain criteria, such as holding a U.S. visa or having visited Canada in the past.
For international students and foreign workers, eTAs are automatically issued alongside study or work permits when applicable. Travellers must carry their letter of introduction, passport, and grant documents while entering the country. Similarly, parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents may apply for the Super Visa, allowing extended stays of up to five years with a visa validity of up to ten years.
To avoid issues, travellers should ensure all personal details are accurate when applying. Mistakes—especially in passport numbers—can result in boarding denial. An eTA is essential for most air travellers to Canada and plays a key role in Canada’s modernized pre-arrival screening process.
With increasing demand from global tourists, students, and business travellers, understanding the rules around eTAs helps ensure a smooth journey into Canada.