Canada eTA / Visa requirements for British Virgin Island citizens

Canada always attracts travel lovers worldwide thanks to its unique beauty and majestic natural wonders spanning the entire country. Canada owns 04 featured seasons making everyone fall in love at first sight. Being known as “Maple Leaf” country, when traveling to Canada, you will have an opportunity to see the roads covered by maple leaves. It is truly a destination for your trip next time.

Certainly visa applications are always a concern of travelers. Nowadays, visa application is more straightforward, and helps you save time and effort. In 2012, the Canadian Government launched a new visa program, called Canada eTA. Canada eTA is prevalent in over 76 countries and territories thanks to its convenience. In this article, we will share with you Canada eTA / Evisa for British Virgin Island citizens and how to apply for it.

Canada eTA for Virgin Island citizens

1. Check Canada eTA requirements for British Virgin Island citizens

What is a Canada eTA?

Canada eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a mandatory document giving permission for 76 visa-exempt countries to travel to Canada. Canada introduced the eTA system in 2016 for air travellers from visa-exempt countries. This new visa program is a breakthrough in tourism development in Canada and helps the government screen and manage passport holders better, reducing the overloading of visa applications at Immigration Department.

The process of applying for a Canada visa online is simple, the applicant can apply remotely at home or anywhere because the process is 100% online. The process is fully online, but you still need a valid passport, an email address, and a payment method. However, not all countries are eligible for eTA, you have to check the eligibility criteria prior to applying.

Check Canada ETA rules in 2025

Canada eTA is eligible to apply for 76 visa-exempt countries. These countries are exempted from Canada visa but are required to have a Canada eTA to travel. There is 1 type of Canada eTA for travelers to apply. For each valid eTA, the validity period is 05 years. This duration depends on the validity of the passport, so if your passport is expired, you also re-apply both passport and eTA.

ETA is valid as a multiple-entry authorization. That means you can enter Canada many times within 05 years without re-applying. Per visit trip, permitted staying-time is for a maximum of 06 months. This eTA is allowable for purposes including travel, leisure activities, business trips, or medical treatment. No visa is required for transit purposes.

Once approved, the eTA is stored electronically against the passport in the Canada Immigration system. In addition, There is no minimum age requirement. Minors can have an eTA, and parents or guardians may complete the application on their behalf

U.S. citizens do not need an eTA. U.S. lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) also do not need an eTA; they must carry their valid passport and Green Card. On the other hand, if the application can not adapt to the requirements, a Canada regular visa is a good alternative option. Contact the Canadian Embassy to apply for it. Because the Canadian Embassy has not been founded in the British Virgin Islands, the applicant needs to look around the neighboring countries to go to the Canadian Embassy. 

Do British Virgin Island citizens need to have a Canada visa?

No, British Virgin Islands citizens do not require a visa. They require an ETA to go to Canada. The Canada ETA allows you to visit Canada for business, vacation, or transportation.

Canada eTA processing time for British Virgin Island citizens

2. Canada ETA requirements for British Virgin Island citizens

Check required documents for the Canada eTA application

These are the basic required documents you have to prepare for the Canada eTA application:

• For a Canada eTA, you only need a valid passport from a visa-exempt country such as the British Virgin Islands. There is no requirement for six months’ validity or blank pages, since the eTA is electronic and no stamp is placed in the passport
• A scanned copy of passport biographical information page 
• The current email address is to receive the official visa.
• The payment methods are debit or credit card

If you have another passport, please choose only one passport to use for both a form online and checking at the checkpoint. Once applied, you can not transfer the passport. 

How to apply for a Canada eTA from the British Virgin Island

Follow the step-by-step instructions to apply accurately. The processing times of Canada eTA for British Virgin Island citizens comprises 04 simple steps:

Step 1: Fill in the form with your information including:

• First and last name
• Gender
• Nationality
• Passport number
• Passport numbers
• Travel dates 

Before submitting the application form, double-check the information to ensure that everything is accurate. Any typo or mistake can cause application form rejection. 

Step 2: Make a payment.

Step 3: You receive an email confirmation of your eTA approval

Even with an approved eTA, entry is not guaranteed. Border officers may refuse entry for health, security, or past immigration violations

Read more about the processing time of the Canada eTA visa application

Is it difficult to get an ETA for Canada?

Getting a Canadian eTA is generally not difficult. The process is simple, fast, and only online. Applicants only need a valid passport from a visa-free country, a credit or debit card for payment, and an email address. Most applications are approved within minutes, but it can take several days if additional documents are required.

The eTA is valid for up to five years or up to six months of passport expiration, and you can visit multiple times during each period. Mistakes can lead to delays or rejections, so it's important to fill out your application with accurate information. Overall, getting a Canadian eTA from a qualified traveler is simple and much easier than applying for a traditional visa.

How far in advance do I need an ETA for Canada?

An eTA is required before the date of travel to Canada. It is recommended to apply for an eTA one month before the date of travel to Canada. The eTA may be approved within minutes of application, or it may take longer. As a precaution, it is recommended to apply early.

Is my ETA attached to my passport?

Yes. Your Canadian eTA is electronically linked to the passport you used to apply. There are no stickers or stamps; your passport is scanned at check-in, and the airline and Canadian systems automatically verify your eTA. Therefore, your passport number, name, and country must match your application exactly.

An eTA is generally valid for up to five years, or until your passport expires. If you receive a new passport (or change your details, or lose your old passport), your eTA will not be transferred, so you must apply for a new eTA with your new passport. You do not need to carry a printout, but it is helpful to keep your approval email.

Tip for dual nationals: Travel with the passport you used to obtain your eTA, or reapply using the passport you will be flying with.

Cost of Canada eTA for citizens from British Virgin Islands

3. How much does Canada eTA cost from the British Virgin Islands?

Canada eTA fees from the British Virgin Islands consist of 02 types: Canada Government fees and visa service fees.

The applicant is required to pay in advance for the processing time. Regarding the service fee, Canada Immigration Services has various timing options that are flexible to your demand, and the fees will vary depending. Please consider 03 options below:

• Normal: Your eTA visa is processed within 03 business days.
• Urgent: Your eTA is processed within 24 business hours.
• Super urgent: Your eTA is processed within 05 business hours.

We encourage you to apply soon, 7 days before departure day to avoid arising problems and solve them on time (if any). A digital financial card is required to make a payment, you can choose one of the methods of payment we have: Paypal, Visa, Master Card, and American Express. Consider carefully before payment, any variations after that will be charged as a new application.

To aim for an advantageous journey, we suggest you add Travel Insurance to your trip. With the benefits of a maximum of 50,000 dollars, we have treatments such as Medical Payments Coverage, Trip Delay, Trip Interruption, Lost Baggage, and Protecting Your Benefit from the Covid-19 Pandemic. The insurance will bring security and reduce damages from risks when you travel overseas. Read more benefits and treatments at Insurance Information.

Finally, we hope the information above will be helpful to your Canada trip. Have a successful application process and enjoy your trip. If you have any questions or concerns about Canada eTA for the British Virgin Island citizens, contact us, we are happy to help you.

5. Travel to Canada from the British Virgin Islands

Flying from British Virgin Islands (BVI) to Canada requires at least one transfer flight as there is no direct route linking the two destinations.

BVI's main airport is Terrance B. Resom International Airport (EIS) on the island of Tortola Beef. From here, travelers usually take short, regional flights to the Caribbean or major U.S. hub airport. Common transit points include San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU), Miami (MIA), and Charlotte (CLT).

Arriving at these hub airports allows you to transfer to direct flights to Canadian cities such as Toronto (YYZ), Montreal (YUL), and Vancouver (YVR). Airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Air Canada offer services for convenient transfers through U.S. gateways.

Travelers departing from BVI are exempt from visas, but must apply for a Canadian eTA online before boarding their flight. The eTA is electronically linked to your passport and valid for up to five years or up to the passport expiration date.

When you plan your trip, make sure your passport is valid, your eTA is approved, and you have enough time between transfers to get customs and security checks in the United States or other transit countries.

Canada Visa Requirements for British Virgin Islands Citizens FAQs

Do British Virgin Islands citizens need a visa for Canada?

No, according to Canadian visa regulations, British Virgin Islands citizens do not require a visa to visit Canada if they hold a valid eTA.

The Canada eTA permits British Virgin Islands citizens to stay in Canada without a visa for up to 6 months for any of the following reasons:

• Holidays
• Spending time with family
• Recreational activities
• Commercial activities
• Transiting from one location to another

British Virgin Islands citizens may need a Canadian visa for the following reasons:

• Working in Canada
• Moving to Canada
• Studying in Canada
• Spending more than 6 months

Citizens of the British Virgin Islands should anticipate their eTA application being completed and accepted within 5 minutes. Permission will be provided via email as a PDF document. The eTA is kept electronically against the passport in the Canada Immigration system, so there is no need to print or produce any paperwork at the airport.

 

What Is the Most Popular Airport in Canada?

Every tourist has a bucket list that includes visiting Canada. Canada boasts world-class restaurants, seafood, wines, and top-tier airports; whichever type of vacation you're planning, Canada has it.

However, the first step in starting your trip is the most important. You should thoroughly assess your airplane ticket arrangements and the airport from which you want to fly. A luxurious airport can be one such thing that can add to your travel experience. Here are some popular airports in Canada:

• Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ): Toronto Pearson International Airport is Canada's largest and busiest airport, a significant hub for domestic and international flights. It's located in Mississauga, Ontario, just outside of Toronto. The airport offers various services and amenities to travelers and plays a vital role in enabling air travel throughout North America.
• Vancouver International Airport (YVR): Vancouver International Airport is Canada's second busiest airport and a vital gateway to the Pacific Rim. It is located on Sea Island in Richmond, British Columbia, and is administered by the Vancouver Airport Authority. The airport provides a diverse selection of local and international flights, connecting travelers to more than 125 locations worldwide. It is renowned for its stunning architecture, cutting-edge amenities, and efficient operations.
• Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL): The airport is among the busiest in the world. It boasts a variety of modern amenities, including lounges, restaurants, and shopping. And you'll never be bored while you wait. These duty-free shops, pubs, and restaurants are guaranteed to keep you busy. Furthermore, hassle-free security checks and self-service kiosks are available at the airport, which is a plus.
• Calgary International Airport (YYC): Calgary International Airport has secured a strong position among Canada's top five airports. It boasts a freshly built international terminal for your convenience and many other modern amenities, contributing to its high ranking. Furthermore, it boasts a high-tech baggage carousel that alerts customers to the specific position of their luggage and the projected arrival time.
• Edmonton International Airport (YEG): Edmonton International is Canada's sixth busiest airport, serving approximately 8 million people yearly. It serves as a hub for Flair Airlines, which offers direct flights to over 60 locations worldwide.
• Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG): YWG is the country's oldest airport, built-in 1928. Despite its tiny size, the airport has been skillfully developed to provide guests with special services. Additionally, the airport has served as a gateway for several remote northern communities in Canada.

Can I apply for an ETA before booking accommodation in Canada?

You are not required to provide proof of accommodation while applying for a Canada eTA. Only the following documents and information are required:

• Valid biometric passport.
• Debit or credit card.
• Contact information, including email and residence address.

Although it is a good idea to reserve accommodations in Canada ahead of time, especially in popular places, doing so before registering for the Canada eTA is optional.

To apply for a Canada eTA, travelers must complete an online application form. This is incredibly quick and straightforward, and candidates need only spend approximately 15 minutes.

 

How long can British Virgin Islands citizens stay in Canada with an eTA?

Canada ETA for British Virgin Island citizens is a multi-entry visa allowing you to enter Canada as often as possible. It is valid for five years after issuance and allows you to stay for up to 180 days per entry.

Your Canadian tourist visa may expire one month before your passport, so make sure you visit Canada before it expires and that it will remain valid throughout your trip. If not, you'll have to apply for a new visa.

To apply online for this Canada ETA for British Virgin Island citizens, we need your up-to-date information and certain documents:

• Passport—All candidates seeking a Canada ETA must have a passport. Check your passport's expiry date before applying, as it must be valid for at least another six months from arrival in Canada. 
• The recent photograph that meets the Canada visa photo specifications
• Digital image of the passport bio page
• While the Canada ETA is electronically linked to your passport, you will receive a copy of the authorization in PDF format by e-mail. You do not need to carry a physical copy, but you can print one off just in case.
• Mode of payment—Visa and service fee payments will be completed before application submission. You can use a credit or debit card, VISA card, Mastercard, Paypal, or Amex card.

Is public transportation in Toronto safe?

Yes. Public transport in Toronto is effortless to use and super streamlined. There is a subway, streetcars, and a bus service to try. To be safe in the city, you must understand how everything works and where all the lines and routes go.

In general, here are a few pointers to help you stay safe on public transportation:

• Keep valuables on your lap to keep them out of reach.
• Prepare your fare ahead of time so you don't waste time looking through your bag.
• If you're anxious about traveling late at night, try to sit near the bus driver or rail guard.
• If someone bothers you on public transportation, shift seats and notify someone (preferably the driver).
• For obvious reasons, avoid falling asleep.

The Toronto subway system operates regularly. You don't have to worry about accidentally catching an express train because all trains stop at all stations.

Each subway station has a staffed entrance; the workers may assist you with directions and tickets.

Streetcars, on the other hand, generally travel above-ground in Downtown. These trams are extremely iconic and a must-see if you're visiting the city. When riding one, simply place your fare in the box, pull the yellow rope when your stop is approaching, and exit through the back doors—it's that simple. A white pole with red stripes marks streetcar stations.

The buses operate similarly to trams: put your money in, pull the chord, and depart through the back.

Keep an eye out for the night bus. It may get boisterous, so avoid it unless you are one of those loud drunk individuals!

Can I leave Toronto airport during a layover?

Yes, you can depart Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) while on a stopover, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Layover duration: Allow enough time to clear customs and immigration (if necessary), leave the airport, tour the city, and return to the airport for your connecting flight. To be safe, allow at least 5-6 hours for your stopover, especially if you're going through customs.

2. Canada ETA requirements: If you are flying into Canada from a country that needs a Canada ETA, you must apply through our website

3. Baggage: During your stopover, check with your airline regarding your luggage. You won't have to worry about your baggage if they are checked through to your ultimate destination, but if you need to retrieve them and re-check them, allow additional time for that procedure

4. Transportation: The Union Pearson Express rail, the UP Express, and public buses connect the airport to downtown Toronto. Taxis and ride-sharing options are also available. Considering anticipated traffic delays, allow plenty of time for travel to and from the city.

5. Activities: Toronto has plenty to offer during a layover, depending on your interests and available time. You could visit the CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, the Hockey Hall of Fame, or simply wander through Kensington Market or St. Lawrence Market.

Here are some additional tips for leaving Toronto Airport during a layover:

• Download the Toronto Pearson app: The app provides real-time flight information, gate changes, airport amenities, and transportation options.
• Luggage storage: If you're worried about your luggage, you can keep it in the airport luggage storage.
• Purchase a Toronto City Pass: This pass offers discounted tickets to several popular attractions, so you can save money if you plan to visit several places.
• Purchase a travel SIM card: To stay connected during your stay, you can purchase a local SIM card at the airport.