Is a Canada eTA the same as a Canadian TRV?

No, a Canada eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) and a Canadian TRV (Temporary Resident Visa) are not the same, although they both allow temporary entry into Canada. Here's a breakdown of the difference between a Canadian temporary resident visa and an Electronic Travel Authorization.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Visa-exempt travelers must get an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before entering Canada by flight. An electronic travel authorization (eTA) is a number that is connected to your passport.

Who needs an eTA?

To enter Canada by aviation, citizens of visa-exempt countries may require an eTA.

Citizens of the United States are exempt from the eTA requirement. They must have an appropriate identity and satisfy the minimum conditions to enter Canada.

eTA Validity

An eTA can be valid for up to five years, or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you receive a new passport, you must also obtain a new eTA.

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), or Visitor Visa

The Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), also known as a Visitor Visa, is an entrance requirement for visa-required travelers entering Canada via any mode of transportation. The TRV is a counterfoil/sticker that is inserted in your passport to indicate that you fulfill the first entry requirements for Canada.

Who requires a TRV?

Citizens of visa-required countries require a TRV to enter Canada via air, land, or sea.

US citizens are exempt from the TRV requirement. They must have an appropriate identity and satisfy the minimum conditions to enter Canada.

While in Canada, international students do not need to have a valid TRV. However, it is strongly advised that you always have one valid, especially if you want to leave and re-enter Canada throughout your studies.

TRV Validity

A TRV is good until the expiration date mentioned on the counterfoil/sticker. If you apply for an initial study permit from outside Canada without a valid travel document, your TRV will have the same expiration date as your study permit.

A TRV and study permit will not be given after the expiration date of your passport. As a result, it is critical to verify that your passport is valid during your studies.

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