Canada Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
- Apply at
- https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta/apply.html 3
- Processing
- Most within minutes, some take several days 2
- Valid for
- Up to five years or until the passport expires 2
- Who needs one
- Visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to or through Canada 2
- Not needed
- US citizens, arrivals by car, bus, train or boat 2
Who needs an eTA
Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an eTA to fly to or transit through a Canadian airport 2. The requirement applies to air travel only 2,1.
Who does not need one
- Travellers arriving by car, bus, train or boat, including a cruise ship 2
- US citizens, who must carry proper identification such as a valid US passport 2
- Lawful permanent residents of the United States with valid US status 2
- Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, who need a valid Canadian passport instead 1,2
Cost
An eTA costs CAN$7 2. You pay right after completing the form, and the fee is non-refundable 3. Accepted cards include Visa, Mastercard and American Express, including prepaid versions, as well as Visa Debit, Debit Mastercard, UnionPay and JCB 3.
When to apply and processing time
Apply before you fly. Most applicants get approval by email within minutes 2. Some requests take several days if you are asked to send supporting documents 2. If documents are needed, an email with instructions is sent within 72 hours 3.
How long it lasts
An eTA is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first 2. Once the passport expires, so does the eTA, and you would need to apply again for your next flight 2.
eTA or not: quick guide
| Traveller | eTA needed to fly to Canada? |
|---|---|
| Visa-exempt foreign national flying in or transiting a Canadian airport | Yes 2 |
| Visa-exempt foreign national arriving by car, bus, train or boat | No 2 |
| US citizen | No. Carry a valid US passport 2 |
| US lawful permanent resident with valid status | No 2 |
| Canadian citizen, including dual citizens | No. Use a valid Canadian passport 2 |
Use the official website only
IRCC tells travellers to apply for an eTA only on the official Government of Canada website 2. The application page states that it is the Government of Canada's official website to apply for an eTA 3. The government fee is CAN$7, so any site charging more is adding its own fee 2,3.
Common questions
How much does a Canada eTA cost?
CAN$7 2.
Do US citizens need a Canada eTA?
No. US citizens are exempt and travel with a valid US passport 2.
Do I need an eTA if I drive into Canada?
No. Arrivals by car, bus, train or boat do not need an eTA 2.
How long is a Canada eTA valid?
Up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first 2.
How fast is a Canada eTA approved?
Most are approved within minutes. Some take several days 2.
Which cards can I use to pay for a Canada eTA?
Visa, Mastercard and American Express, including prepaid cards, plus Visa Debit, Debit Mastercard, UnionPay and JCB 3.
Rules and fees change. Check the official site linked above before you apply or pay. Spotted an error? Email [email protected] with the official link.
Sources
- Government of Canada (IRCC): Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) (accessed 19 October 2026)
- Government of Canada (IRCC): eTA facts and eligibility (accessed 19 October 2026)
- Government of Canada (IRCC): Apply for an eTA (accessed 19 October 2026)
Related
- US ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization)
ESTA costs US$40.62 from 16 October 2026 and lasts two years. Who needs it under the Visa Waiver Program, when to apply and the official site.
- UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
A UK ETA costs £20 and lasts 2 years or until your passport expires. Who needs one, who is exempt, how to apply and how to avoid paying extra.
- Australia Electronic Travel Authority (ETA, subclass 601)
Australia's ETA has no visa charge but a A$20 app service fee. Eligible passports, the 12-month validity, 3-month stays and how to apply.