Licensed Canadian immigration guidance

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

An eTA is a lightweight entry requirement for citizens of visa-exempt countries arriving in Canada by air — electronically linked to the traveller's passport rather than issued as a physical visa document.

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  1. 01
    eTA vs. Visitor Visa

    Open this section for the practical detail, evidence and requirements that shape the pathway.

  2. 02
    Frequently Asked Questions

    Open this section for the practical detail, evidence and requirements that shape the pathway.

  3. 03
    Related Pages

    Open this section for the practical detail, evidence and requirements that shape the pathway.

Your service guide

The details that move the file forward

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An eTA is a lightweight entry requirement for citizens of visa-exempt countries arriving in Canada by air — electronically linked to the traveller's passport rather than issued as a physical visa document.

Key figures at a glance

Source sequence preserved
Aironly Entry method covered
Upto 5 yrs Typical validity
1Tied to a specific passport
Minutes–daysTypical processing time

eTA vs. Visitor Visa

Technical reference

Technical reference

Eligibility and pathway detail

Official data
FeatureeTAVisitor Visa (TRV)
Who needs itCitizens of visa-exempt countries, flying to CanadaCitizens of countries without a visa exemption
FormatElectronic, linked to passportPhysical or electronic visa
Entry method coveredAir travel onlyAir, land, or sea
Processing timeTypically minutes to a few daysCan take weeks depending on the visa office
Presented in the supplied source sequenceReviewed 2026
Passport and boarding pass prepared for travel
Ready to travelTemporary residence applications need a consistent purpose, itinerary and supporting record.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an eTA work for land or sea entry?

No — an eTA only authorizes air travel to Canada; different requirements apply for entry by land or sea.

What happens if I get a new passport?

A new passport requires a new eTA — the authorization is electronically linked to the specific passport number used at the time of application.

How is eligibility determined?

Eligibility depends entirely on citizenship — only travellers from countries with a visa-exemption agreement with Canada can apply for an eTA instead of a full visitor visa.

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Related Pages

CTA: Book a Free Consultation to confirm which entry document you need.

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