Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

What is an Electronic Travel Authorization?

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. An eTA is electronically linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.  If you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA.

With a valid eTA, you can travel to Canada as often as you want for short stays (normally for up to six months at a time). You do not need an eTA for travel within Canada.

An eTA doesn’t guarantee entry to Canada. When you arrive, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and other documents. You must convince the officer that you are eligible for entry into Canada.

Who needs an eTA to travel to Canada?

There are 4 types of travellers:

  1. Travellers who need an eTA:

    • Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an eTA to fly to or transit through a Canadian airport. These travellers do not need an eTA when arriving by car, bus, train or boat (including a cruise ship).

  2. Travellers who may be eligible to apply for an eTA:

    • Citizens from select visa-required countries may be eligible to apply for an eTA, instead of a visa, to travel to Canada by air. However, these travellers need a visitor visa when arriving by car, bus, train, or boat, including a cruise ship.

  3. Travellers who cannot apply for an eTA and need to carry other identification:

    • Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, need a valid Canadian passport. American-Canadians can travel with a valid Canadian or U.S. passport.

    • Canadian permanent residents need a valid permanent resident card or permanent resident travel document.

    • Visa-required including alien’s passport holders and stateless individuals.

  4. Travellers who are exempt from the eTA requirement.

    • U.S. citizens are exempt from the eTA requirement and must carry proper identification such as a valid U.S. passport.

    • Lawful permanent residents of the United States who hold valid status in the U.S. are exempt from the eTA requirement.

      • They must carry official proof of status (or an equivalent status document) and a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent travel document).