What is an eTA?

The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an online entry authorization required for citizens of visa-exempt countries flying to Canada. Most European nationals, UK, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and many other countries hold visa-exempt status, meaning they don't need a TRV — but they do need an eTA to board a flight to Canada.

The eTA is linked electronically to the traveller's passport. It costs CAD $7 and is typically issued within minutes (sometimes immediately, sometimes within 72 hours for routine review). It remains valid for 5 years or until the linked passport expires, whichever comes first.

Who needs an eTA

• Citizens of visa-exempt countries (UK, Australia, Germany, France, Japan, Korea, etc.) — required for air travel to Canada.
• US citizens: exempt from both TRV and eTA — no pre-authorization needed.
• Citizens of visa-required countries (Pakistan, India, Nigeria, Iran, etc.) — need a TRV instead.
• Permanent residents of Canada: don't need eTA — use PR card or PRTD.

When eTA is NOT required

• US citizens (no pre-authorization needed for visitor entry).
• Entry by land or sea (eTA only required for air travel).
• Travellers with a valid Canadian visitor visa already in their passport.
• Canadian citizens (use a Canadian passport).

Common gotchas

• Passport name change. The eTA is linked to the specific passport. If you renew your passport, you need a new eTA — the old one doesn't transfer.
• eTA-website scams. Many third-party websites charge $50-$100 for eTA application. The only official source is canada.ca at $7. Don't pay more.
• Dual citizens. If you hold both Canadian citizenship and another nationality, you must travel to Canada on your Canadian passport — eTA doesn't apply.

See also

• TRV — visa requirement for visa-required nationals.
• Visitor Visa service.