What is a Canada eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)?

Since 2016, eTA has been a mandatory entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals who are planning to travel to Canada by air. The authorization is linked electronically to your passport and is valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever date comes first. An eTA can be used for transit, tourism, or business visits of up to six months.

An approved eTA confirms a foreign national’s eligibility to travel to Canada visa-free and serves as visa waiver document. While a visa waiver such as the eTA serves almost the same purpose as a visa, the method of obtaining one is much different from that for obtaining a visa. Applying for a standard Canada visitor visa is a more time consuming process, but eTA applicants are usually notified of a decision within minutes.