eTA

eTA

If you are planning to fly to Canada and are from a visa exempt country, you may need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before boarding your flight. An eTA is a digital entry requirement that is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for up to five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. With a valid eTA, you can travel to Canada as often as you like for short visits, usually up to six months at a time. However, an eTA does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border services officer will verify your documents and determine if you are eligible to enter Canada.

Who Needs an eTA?

You need an eTA if:

  •  You are a citizen of a visa exempt country and are flying to Canada
  •  You are transiting through a Canadian airport

You do not need an eTA if:

  •  You are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada
  •  You are a dual citizen and travelling on a valid Canadian passport
  •  You are a US citizen with a valid US passport
  •  You are a US permanent resident with valid proof of status and passport
  •  You are travelling to Canada by land or sea

How to Apply for an eTA?

Applying for an eTA is a simple online process. You will need:

  • A valid passport
  • A credit or debit card
  • An email address

Most applications are approved within minutes, but some may take a few days if additional documents are requested. It is important to apply well in advance of booking your flight.

Mistakes in the application, such as an incorrect passport number or failing to disclose past refusals or criminal history, can lead to delays or refusals. This is why legal guidance can be very helpful.

Why Choose Kahlon Law Office?

Although the eTA application seems simple, small errors or missing information can result in serious consequences. Our team at Kahlon Law Office is experienced in reviewing and preparing eTA applications. If you have any past issues such as overstays, refusals, or inadmissibility concerns, we will help you understand your options and guide you through the process.

Let us help you avoid unnecessary stress and ensure that your travel to Canada goes smoothly.

Which Countries Are Visa Exempt for Travel to Canada?

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visitor visa to travel to Canada for short stays but must apply for an eTA when arriving by air:

  • Andorra
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Bahamas
  • Barbados
  • Belgium
  • Brunei
  • Bulgaria
  • Chile
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Israel (national passport holders)
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Republic of Korea
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Mexico
  • Monaco
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Norway
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania (electronic passport holders only)
  • Samoa
  • San Marino
  • Singapore
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Solomon Islands
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Taiwan (passport holders with personal ID number)
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom (British citizens and British overseas citizens re-admissible to the UK)
  • Vatican City (passport holders only)

Note: United States citizens do not require an eTA. However, US permanent residents need an eTA and
must carry valid proof of their status in the United States and their national passport.