If you are a foreign national and plan on traveling to Canada for tourism, business, or other reasons, you will need a visa to enter the country. Canada has visa requirements in place for most foreign visitors, apart from those from countries that have established visa exemption agreements with Canada.
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a mandatory requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. An eTA is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport and remains valid for up to five years or until the passport’s expiration date, whichever occurs first. If you obtain a new passport, you must also apply for a new eTA.
Possessing a valid eTA allows you to visit Canada multiple times for short stays, typically for up to six months at a time. However, it’s important to note that an eTA is not required for domestic travel within Canada.
It’s essential to understand that having an eTA does not guarantee automatic entry into Canada. Upon your arrival, a border services officer will inspect your passport and other necessary documents. It is your responsibility to demonstrate to the officer that you meet the eligibility criteria for entry into Canada.
With this visa, you can:
- Stay in Canada for up to 6 months at a time.
- Enjoy a holidays, visit your family or friends or cruise, or attend a cultural event.
- Visa allows you to enter Canada multiple times.
Who requires an eTA for travel to Canada?
There are four categories of travelers:
Travelers who require an eTA: Visa-exempt foreign nationals must obtain an eTA when flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport. However, eTAs are not necessary for those arriving by car, bus, train, or boat (including cruise ships).
Travelers who may be eligible to apply for an eTA: Citizens of certain visa-required countries may be eligible to apply for an eTA instead of a visa when traveling to Canada by air. Nevertheless, these travelers must obtain a visitor visa when entering Canada by car, bus, train, or boat, including cruise ships.
Travelers who cannot apply for an eTA and require alternative identification:
Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, must possess a valid Canadian passport. American-Canadians can use a valid Canadian or U.S. passport.
Canadian permanent residents need a valid permanent resident card or a permanent resident travel document.
It’s crucial to note that former residents of Canada with permanent resident (PR) status that does not expire should review their status to prevent travel delays.
Travelers who are exempt from the eTA requirement:
U.S. citizens are exempt from the eTA requirement and should carry suitable identification, such as a valid U.S. passport.
Lawful permanent residents of the United States with valid U.S. status are also exempt from the eTA requirement. They should carry official proof of their status (or an equivalent status document) along with a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent travel document).
Please refer to the comprehensive list of documents required for lawful permanent residents of the U.S. for further details.
Elegible eTA countries
Citizens of the following countries can apply for an eTA if they plan to land by air to Canada and stay less than 6 months. Rest of the countries needs to apply for a visa.
Elegible eTA countries
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Andorra
Australia
Bahamas
Barbados
Brunei
Chile
Hong Kong
Iceland
Israel
Japan
Liechtenstein
Monaco
New Zealand
Norway
Papua New Guinea
Samoa
San Marino
Singapore
Solomon Islands
South Korea
Switzerland
Taiwan
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
United States
Vatican CityCOVID-19 Requirements
In the current scenario, proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not mandated, and neither are COVID-19 pre-entry and arrival tests upon arrival in Canada. Furthermore, there is no requirement for quarantine after entering the country, and wearing masks on planes and trains is also not obligatory.
Our Customer Support
If you would like more information or have any questions regarding travel requirements, entry restrictions, or any other related concerns, please feel free to contact us. We are here to assist you and provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information available. Applying for your travel needs through our company ensures a streamlined process, making everything easy and convenient for you. Our experienced team will guide you through the application process, ensuring that all necessary documents are submitted correctly and thoroughly checked for any mistakes. Your peace of mind and satisfaction are our top priorities, and we are committed to providing excellent service to make your travel experience as smooth as possible.