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Your complete guide to the Canada eTA

Canada eTA — How to Apply

Everything you need to know about the Canada Electronic Travel Authorization — who needs it, what it costs, and how to apply on the official government website.

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What is a Canada eTA?

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. It is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for up to five years, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first.

The eTA is not a visa. It is a simple online authorization that most travellers receive within minutes of applying.

Who needs an eTA?

The eTA applies to visa-exempt nationals flying to Canada.

Visa-exempt travellers

Citizens of visa-exempt countries (such as the United Kingdom, Australia, and most EU member states) need an eTA to fly to Canada.

Travelling by air

The eTA is required only for air travel. Travellers arriving by land or sea do not need one.

Transit passengers

Even if you are only transiting through a Canadian airport, you generally need an eTA.

Canada eTA Requirements

Everything you need before starting your application.

Valid passport

A passport from an eligible country that will remain valid for the duration of your stay.

Email address

A valid email address to receive your eTA confirmation and status updates.

Payment method

A credit or debit card to pay the government eTA fee.

How to apply

The application is completed online on the official Government of Canada website.

Step 1

Prepare your documents

Have your passport, email address, and payment card ready before you begin.

Step 2

Complete the online form

Fill out the application on the official website and pay the government fee.

Step 3

Receive your eTA

Most applications are approved within minutes. Your eTA is linked to your passport.

Government fee

The Canada eTA costs $7 CAD.

Validity

Valid for up to 5 years (or until your passport expires), with multiple entries.

Processing time

Most eTAs are approved within minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about the Canada eTA.

The official government fee for a Canada eTA is $7 CAD.
An eTA is valid for up to five years, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first.
Most applications are approved within minutes. Some may take longer if additional checks are required.
Yes — in most cases, visa-exempt travellers transiting through a Canadian airport by air need an eTA.
No. An eTA is an electronic travel authorization for visa-exempt travellers. It is simpler and cheaper than a visa.
If your eTA is denied, you may need to apply for a visitor visa instead. You can check the official website for more information.

Ready to apply?

You can apply for your Canada eTA directly on the official Government of Canada website.

Go to canada.ca/eTA