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Electronic travel authorization (eTA): About the process

Fees

$7 CAD

Processing time ?

Usually within minutes, but up to several days

Processing times

Processing times will vary based on:

  • the type of application submitted
  • if the application is complete
  • how quickly we expect to process applications we’ve already received
  • how easily we can verify your information
  • how long you take to respond to any requests or concerns
  • other factors

More people want to immigrate to Canada than we can bring in each year. Applications received after we meet our yearly limit may have to wait longer to be processed.

Learn how processing times are calculated.

If you’re visa-required and eligible for an eTA, but already have a valid Canadian visa you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

The eTA application process

Applying for an eTA is a simple online process. You should apply for an eTA before you book your flight.

  1. Get your passport, credit or debit card ready, and read the application help document, which is available in several languages.
  2. Use the online form to apply.
  3. Pay $7 CAD for your eTA right after you complete the form.
  4. Get an email about your eTA application.
    • Most applications are approved within minutes but some can take longer.
    • You may need to submit additional documents before your application can be approved.
      1. If this happens to you, an email will be sent with instructions within 72 hours.

What is an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. An eTA lets you travel to Canada by air or transit through a Canadian airport. It’s:

  • electronically linked to your passport (there is no specific document to print)
  • valid for up to 5 years or until your 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 6 months at a time).

An eTA doesn’t guarantee entry to Canada. When you arrive in Canada, a border services officer makes the final decision on whether you are admissible or not.

How long it takes to get an eTA

It’s best to get an eTA before you book your flight to Canada.

  • Most applicants get their eTA approval (via an email) within minutes.
  • However, some requests can take several days to process if you're asked to submit supporting documents.

Confirm your passport number is correct

Once your eTA is approved, check that the passport number in your eTA approval email matches the number in your passport. If they don’t match, you need to apply for a new eTA.

What to bring to the airport

When we approve your eTA, it will be linked to the passport you used to apply. You need to present this passport when you check-in to your flight to Canada. You don’t need to print out any special document.

The airline staff will scan your passport to confirm that you have a valid eTA. If you don’t have one, you won’t be able to board your flight.

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