ETAs can also be obtained via smartphone or tablet. This means that if a traveller has forgotten to obtain an eTA, they will be able to do so at the airport. However, it is strongly recommended that eTAs be obtained at least 72 hours before booking any travel.
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.
Before you arrive in Canada, you may be asked to complete a Customs Declaration Card. Complete this card before meeting with customs and immigration officials, even if you aren't a Canadian citizen. If you're traveling by air, it's a good idea to complete the card before you leave the airplane.
This is the Government of Canada's official web page to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to fly to, or transit through, a Canadian airport. It only costs CAN$7. Find out what it is and how to apply online.
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.
ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel. The processing of an ESTA can take up to 72 hours.
In most cases, you will receive an email from us within minutes. However, some requests may need several days to process. If this is the case for your application, you can expect an email from us within 72 hours of applying.
Applications are usually processed within 3 days, but in some cases it may take longer. You can also choose the expedited processing if you need your application processed faster. We recommend applying for your eTA 2 weeks prior to travel. Travellers can submit their applications up to 3 months prior to travel.
To apply you must have a valid passport from a visa-exempt country, a valid credit card and an email address. It costs $7 CAD to get an eTA and only takes a few minutes to apply.