Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
Most travellers need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to, or transit through, a Canadian airport. An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. An eTA is electronically linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA.With a valid eTA, you can travel to Canada as often as you want for short stays (normally for up to six months at a time). An eTA doesn’t guarantee entry to Canada. When you arrive, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and other documents – for example, a U.S. Green Card. You must convince the officer that you are eligible for entry into Canada.
Who needs an eTA to travel to Canada?
Travellers from Visa-exempt countries need an eTA to fly to or transit through a Canadian airport. These travellers do not need an eTA when arriving by car, bus, train or boat (including a cruise ship).
Lawful permanent residents of the U.S. need an eTA to fly to or transit through a Canadian airport. They must present a valid Green Card and a valid passport at check-in.
How to apply for an eTA
Applying for an eTA is a simple online process that takes just a few minutes to complete. Most applicants get their eTA approval (via an email) within minutes. However, some requests can take several days to process if you're asked to submit supporting documents. It is best to get an eTA before you book your flight to Canada. An eTA costs CAD $7. You can only apply and pay for one person at a time.
What to bring to the airport
When we approve your eTA, it will be linked to the passport you used to apply. You need to present this passport when you check-in to your flight to Canada. The airline staff will scan your passport to confirm that you have a valid eTA. If you do not have one, you won’t be able to board your flight.
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Avoid hassles at the airport:
Once your eTA is approved, check that the passport number included in your eTA approval email matches the number in your passport. If they don’t match, you need to apply for a new eTA.