What is an Electronic Travel Authorisation?
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.
D O I Q U A L I F Y ?
How Do I apply?
Click the "Apply Now" button.
Who needs an eTA to travel to Canada?
There are 4 types of travelers:
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Travelers who need an eTA:
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Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an eTA to fly to or transit through a Canadian airport. These travelers do not need an eTA when arriving by car, bus, train or boat (including a cruise ship).
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Travelers who may be eligible to apply for an eTA:
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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 travelers need a visitor visa when arriving by car, bus, train, or boat, including a cruise ship.
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Travelers who cannot apply for an eTA and need to carry other identification:
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Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, need a valid Canadian passport. American-Canadians can travel with a valid Canadian or U.S. passport.
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Canadian permanent residents need a valid permanent resident card or permanent resident travel document.
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Important – former residents of Canada: Permanent resident (PR) status does not expire. If you once lived in Canada many years ago, you could still have PR status. Learn more to avoid travel delays.
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Visa-required including alien’s passport holders and stateless individuals.
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Travelers who are exempt from the eTA requirement.
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U.S. citizens are exempt from the eTA requirement and must carry proper identification such as a valid U.S. passport.
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Lawful permanent residents of the United States who hold valid status in the U.S. are exempt from the eTA requirement.
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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).
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See the complete list of documents for lawful permanent residents of the U.S.
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