Do I Need an eTA to Visit Canada?
- Philip Talbot
- May 6
- 2 min read
Canada introduced the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals in 2016. If you're flying to Canada, here's what you need to know.
What is a Canada eTA?
A Canada eTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. It is electronically linked to your passport and checked automatically when you board your flight.
Who needs a Canada eTA?
You need a Canada eTA if you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country and you are flying to Canada. This includes citizens of the UK, France, Germany, Australia, and many other countries.
Note: US citizens do not need an eTA — they only need a valid US passport.
Who does NOT need a Canada eTA?
You do not need a Canada eTA if you:
Are a Canadian citizen
Are a US citizen
Already have a valid Canadian visa
Are travelling by land or sea (eTA is an air travel requirement only)
How long is a Canada eTA valid?
A Canada eTA is valid for five years or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. You can make multiple trips to Canada during this period, staying up to 6 months per visit.
Can I apply for my family?
Yes. With ETA Permits, one application covers up to 3 passengers — making it simple for families travelling together.
What happens if I don't have one?
Airlines are required to verify eTA status before boarding. Without a valid eTA you may be denied boarding, even if you have a confirmed ticket.
How do I apply?
Apply through ETA Permits. We manually review every application before submission to make sure everything is correct.
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