Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Your valid Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) allows you to enter Canada. Know the expiry date and make sure to renew it two to three months before the expiration date.

HOW TO APPLY ONLINE

Step 1: Gather supporting documents

  • Valid passport
  • Credit card
  • Email address (that you regularly review)

Step 2: Got to Canada.ca/eTA

Step 3: Answer the eligibility questionnaire

Answer all the questions that follow. 

Step 4: Pay the application fee

Pay the eTA application fee of $7 CAD online with a credit card (VISA, MasterCard, American Express). 

Please do not forget to print a receipt.

Step 5: After you apply

If your eTA is approved you will receive an email confirming you are allowed to travel to Canada by air.

Your eTA will be linked to your passport.  You will need to show your passport to airline staff whenever you board a flight to Canada.


 

OVERVIEW

What is it?
eTA is a requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals entering Canada by air. 

Why do I need it?
Visa-exempt foreign nationals must have an eTA in order to enter Canada. View the list of countries whose citizens require an eTA.

If you are entering Canada for the first time and have already applied for a study permit the eTA is automatically included as part of your study permit application.  However if you have not applied for a study permit because your program of study is six months or less, you MUST apply for an eTA.

When do I need it?
You need it in advance of your travel date to Canada. We recommend applying for an eTA a month in advance of your travel date to Canada. eTAs can be approved within minutes of applying or may take longer. As a precaution it is better to apply early. 

How long will your eTA be valid?

You eTA will be vaild for up to 5 years or until the expiry of your passport (whichever comes first)

You can verify the status and expiration of your eTA by using the Check eTA status tool. To do this, you will need the eTA number noted on the email confirmation and details from the passport you used to apply for your eTA.