I Tried to Pay for a Canada eTA but Got an Error. What Do I Do?

If your Canada eTA payment fails or you receive an error message, first check whether the payment actually went through. Then check your payment method and application details before trying again.

Canada eTA Payment Error: What Should I Do?

Follow these steps if you receive a payment error:

Step 1: Check If You Were Actually Charged

A payment error message does not necessarily mean that no payment was attempted. Before submitting another payment:

• Check your email, including your spam or junk folder, for an eTA confirmation email.
• Check your bank or card statement to see whether the payment was charged or placed on hold.
• If you were charged and received an eTA application confirmation, use the eTA Check Status tool to check your application.

If your payment details did not match your financial institution's records, the transaction amount may be held for a few days. The length of the hold depends on your financial institution.

Step 2: Check That You Are Using an Accepted Payment Method

Accepted payment methods for a Canada eTA:

• Bank transfer
• Credit card or debit card
• PayPal

For online debit-card payments, your card must meet the applicable requirements. The card does not have to be in the applicant's name.

Step 3: Check Common Reasons for Payment Errors

Incorrect card or billing details: Check the card number, expiry date, security code, and billing information. The information you enter should match the information held by your financial institution. When entering your billing address, select your country before entering the other address details.

3-D Secure verification: IRCC online payments require 3-D Secure (3DS 2.0) confirmation. Contact your bank or card provider if your card is not set up for 3DS verification or you are not receiving the required confirmation.

Browser or technical problems: If you receive an error or timeout message, try again after checking your browser and connection. The eTA application is time-sensitive and cannot be saved, so have your passport and payment information ready before starting.

Card restrictions: If your payment continues to fail, contact your bank or card provider to check whether there is a restriction preventing the transaction from being completed.

Step 4: Still Not Working? Contact Support

If you continue to receive a payment failure message after trying again, IRCC advises you to complete its eTA enquiry form.

If you are applying for a Canada eTA through Canada Immigration Services, you can also contact our team for assistance with the application and payment process.

Important: You Cannot Travel Without a Valid eTA

If you require an eTA and have not successfully obtained one, a technical problem with your payment or application does not allow you to travel without it. IRCC states that you should not plan or undertake air travel to Canada without a valid eTA. You may experience delays or be prevented from boarding your flight.

If your departure is approaching and your eTA issue has not been resolved, contact IRCC as soon as possible and make sure you have a valid eTA before travelling.