The electronic travel authorization (ETA) is a streamlined system that allows visa-exempt foreign nationals to apply for authorization to enter Canada for short-term stays, such as for tourism or business purposes. The ETA is a requirement for travelers from these countries who do not need a visa to enter Canada.
In this article, we will provide an overview of the ETA program and explain how to apply for an ETA for transit through Canada.
What Is The Canada ETA?
The ETA Canada is an authorization that allows travelers from certain countries to transit through Canada en route to their final destination. To be eligible for an ETA, travelers must meet the following requirements:
Be a citizen of a country that is eligible for the ETA program
Have a valid passport from an ETA-eligible country
Be in transit to or from the United States, or be traveling to or from a country other than the united states
Do not pose any health-related threat to Canadian citizens.
Have a confirmed onward ticket and all necessary documents for the next destination
Not have a criminal record or be inadmissible to Canada for any other reason
If you do not fulfill any of the above-mentioned requirement, you need to apply for a traditional transit visa by visiting the Canadian embassy.
Canada ETA Requirements
If you are eligible for a Canada ETA, you can apply for this travel document from the comfort of your home. However, there are a few documents that you need to get your electronic travel authorization, such as:
Valid passport - a valid passport issued by the country whose citizens enjoy Canadian visa exemption. Your passport needs to have at least 2 blank pages and 6 months of remaining validity.
E-mail address - a valid and active email address to send the ETA application form and receive your approved travel documents.
Online payment options - to get an ETA, applicants need to pay the embassy fee as well as the service charges. You need to have online means of payment, such as a PayPal account, debit card, or credit card.
Besides these, you may have to submit some additional documents depending on the purpose of your visit and your nationality. You may also have to answer some personal and security questions to get your travel document.
How To Apply For A Canada ETA?
To apply for electronic travel authorization, travelers must complete an online application through VisaHQ. The application process is straightforward and can be completed in a few steps:
Gather the required documents: to visit Canada and transit through the country; travelers will need to have a valid passport from an ETA-eligible country, as well as a confirmed onward ticket and all necessary documents for the next destination.
Complete the online application: the online application consists of several sections, including personal information, travel information, and security and background questions. Travelers will need to provide detailed and accurate information in each section.
Pay the fee: the fee for an ETA Canada includes both the service fee and the embassy fee. As this entire process is streamlined, you can use a credit card or debit card.
Wait for the ETA to be processed: after the application has been submitted and the fee has been paid, the ETA will be processed by the government of Canada. Processing times may vary, so it is important to apply for the ETA well in advance of the planned travel date.
Once you get your ETA, you can pack your bag and use this travel document as a transit visa. Keep in mind that an ETA does not guarantee your entry; the final decision will be made by the immigration officer. So, make sure to fulfill all of the entry requirements while traveling to Canada!
Eta Processing Time
As mentioned earlier, the processing time for a Canada ETA varies from applicant to applicant. The average ETA processing time for this travel document is 2-5 business days. However, due to high demand, you may have to wait a little longer!
How Long Is A Canada ETA Valid For?
An electronic travel authorization comes with a validity period of five years or until your passport expires. During this time, travelers may transit through Canada as many times as they wish, as long as they meet the requirements for an ETA Canada and their passport remains valid.
What If I Need To Change My Travel Plans?
If travelers need to change their travel plans after they have been granted an ETA, they may do so without having to reapply for the ETA. However, if the changes to the travel plans affect the eligibility for the ETA (e.g. If the traveler is no longer in transit through Canada), a new ETA may be required.