Canada eTA Application Guide: Step-by-Step Instructions

If you're planning to fly to Canada and you're from a visa-exempt country, you’ll likely need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before boarding your flight. Introduced in 2016, the eTA is a streamlined entry requirement for short-term stays for tourism, business, or transit purposes. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to apply, eligibility criteria, required documents, fees, processing time, and common mistakes to avoid.

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🧾 1. What Is an eTA?

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a digital entry requirement linked to your passport. It allows travelers from visa-exempt countries to fly into Canada for stays of up to 6 months.

• Validity: 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
• Multiple entries: Yes
• Purpose: Tourism, transit, business meetings, short study (less than 6 months)

⚠️ Note: The eTA is only required for air travel. It’s not needed if you're arriving by land or sea.

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🌍 2. Who Needs an eTA?

You need an eTA if you:

• Are from a visa-exempt country (e.g., UK, Germany, Japan, Australia)
• Are flying to Canada
• Are not holding a Canadian visa or PR card

You do NOT need an eTA if you:

• Hold a valid Canadian visa
• Are a U.S. citizen (but U.S. Green Card holders do need an eTA)
• Are entering by car, bus, train, or boat

To check if your country qualifies: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta.html

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📋 3. Documents You’ll Need

Before applying, prepare the following:

• Valid passport from a visa-exempt country
• Credit card or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or prepaid)
• Email address
• Optional: Travel itinerary (not required, but helpful if asked)

🔐 Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. The eTA is digitally tied to the passport you use to apply.

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💻 4. Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Go to the Official Website

Visit Canada’s official eTA application page: https://www.canada.ca/eta

Do not apply through third-party sites that charge extra or may be fraudulent.

Step 2: Start the Application

Click "Apply online for an eTA." The application must be completed in one sitting (you can't save progress). It usually takes 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Enter Personal Information

You will need to provide:

• Full name (as shown on passport)
• Date of birth, nationality, and gender
• Passport number, issue date, expiry date
• Employment information
• Contact details
• Travel information (if available)

Step 4: Answer Background Questions

These include questions on:

• Previous visa refusals
• Criminal history
• Medical conditions

Answer truthfully. Misrepresentation can result in denial or long-term bans.

Step 5: Review and Pay

• Review all entered details carefully. Any mismatch with your passport could invalidate your eTA.
• Pay the non-refundable fee of $7 CAD using a credit/debit card.

Step 6: Confirmation

After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email within minutes to a few hours. Most eTAs are approved within minutes, but some may take up to 72 hours for additional processing.

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🕒 5. Processing Time and Status Tracking

• Most approvals: Within 5–30 minutes
• If flagged for review: Up to 3 business days (you may be asked to submit additional documents)
• Status checking: Use the link in your confirmation email or visit https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/check-status.html

✈️ You will not get a physical document—airline staff can check your eTA electronically during check-in.

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🚫 6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Entering wrong passport number

This is the #1 reason travelers are denied boarding. Double-check numbers and characters (e.g., 0 vs O).

1. Applying on fake websites

Only use the official Government of Canada website to avoid scams or overcharging.

1. Using an expired passport

The eTA is linked to your passport. If your passport expires, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA with the new passport.

1. Overstaying

The eTA permits stays of up to 6 months. Overstaying could lead to future entry bans.

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🧳 7. At the Airport: What to Expect

At check-in and upon arrival in Canada, officials will verify:

• Your valid passport (with linked eTA)
• Purpose of visit
• Return or onward ticket
• Proof of sufficient funds (sometimes requested)

💡 Tip: Have your travel itinerary and hotel bookings ready in case immigration officers ask for details.

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✅ 8. Summary Checklist

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📌 Final Notes

• Apply at least a few days before your travel date to avoid last-minute delays.
• Always keep your email confirmation and check the passport number it’s linked to.
• An eTA is not a guarantee of entry—border officers make the final decision.

For official guidance and FAQs, visit the Canadian government website: 👉 https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta.html

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