Complete Guide to Understanding Canada eTA from Henry Moore's blog

Hello fellow travelers. I am an avid explorer on a mission to uncover the world’s hidden gems. Join me as I share unforgettable adventures and memorable experiences from my travels around the globe. Planning a trip to Canada? Today, I am excited to share about "Canada eTA." This guide helps you to understand everything about eta types, requirements, application process and who are eligible for your next trip to Canada. 

1. What is a Canada Eta?

Canada introduced eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) in 2016 to enhance security and better screen foreign nationals who will come from visa-exempt countries by Air. These countries do not need e-visa. Eta process is fast and secure that helps to reduce the risk of inadmissible people, and reduces Administrative burden. Canada eTA is valid up to 5 years or until foreign national travelers passport expires, this eTA helps you for tourism, transit and business purposes in Canada. 

2. What are the types of eTA Canada?

Canada offers three types of eTA for visa-exempt foreign nationals who wish to fly Canada by Air. If you are eligible for eTA and come from another mode of travel such as Land or Sea then you do not need eTA Canada. 

a. Tourist eTA

If you are visiting Canada for tourism or leisure purposes and eligible for eTA then you can apply for a Tourist eTA. It allows visa-exempt travelers to fly to Canada without the need of a traditional visa. eTA is valid for 5 years and you can stay up to 6 months at a time. Make sure, you must have a valid passport from an eligible country. 

b. Business eTA

If you come from visa-exempt nations and want to visit Canada for business purposes such as Attending business meetings or conferences, Participating in trade shows or exhibitions, Visiting clients or suppliers and many more activities then you can apply for a Business eTA for Canada. But make sure you must fulfill the requirements, have a passport or return ticket. Canada eta validity is 5 years and the system has multiple entries. 

c. Transit eTA

If you want to catch your destination flight and pass through Canada then you can apply for Transit eTA. You must have a valid passport from a visa-exempt country, transiting within 48 hours of arriving in Canada and a valid onward to a destination ticket. You can apply for Transit eTA through the website and Canada eta processing time is typically quick and can be done in minutes. If you want to stay longer then you will need another visa. 

3. Who Can Apply for a Canada eTA?

eTA Canada is available for those travelers who are coming from visa-exempt nations by Air. Once your eta is approved then it is valid for 5 years, use it for multiple entries and stay up to 6 months. It is only applicable to travelers flying to Canada by Air. Visa-exempt countries for Canada are: 

• Andorra

• Australia

• Austria

• Bulgaria

• Chile

• Croatia

• Cyprus

• Denmark

• Bahamas

• France

• Germany

• Greece

• Barbados

• Belgium

• British citizen

• Estonia

• Finland and many more.

Above mentioned countries are eligible for eTA for Canada and citizens of these countries do not require a visa while entering Canada but make sure citizens fulfill all the requirements. But If you are coming from non-visa-exempt countries such as India, Bahrain, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, etc. then you need to apply for other types of visa instead of eTA. 

4. What are the required documents and application process of eta Canada?

If you are planning to visit Canada then you must know about the required documents that help you to avoid disturbance while applying for Canada eta.

Documents Requirements

• Must have a valid passport from a visa-exempt country while traveling to Canada. 

• You will need a Credit or Debit card to pay the processing fee. 

• You have to upload correct personal information such as name, phone number, passport number, date of birth and valid email for confirmation. 

• Travel information such as purpose of visit, return ticket, etc.

Canada eta application process is fast and straightforward and can be done online. Follow the following steps for applying to Canada. 

• First, fill out the application form by entering personal information such as name, passport number, etc.

• Upload the required documents.

• You can pay eta processing fee visa through debit or credit card. 

• After that, submit your application and most applications are processed within minutes. 

• Once your eTA is approved, you will receive a confirmation mail. It will automatically be linked to your passport. 

• Your eTA is valid for 5 years and can be used  for multiple entries in Canada. 

5. Canada eTA Fees and Extension

Canada eTA cost depends on your nationality, applicable for each individual application and must be paid at the time of submission. If your eta is not approved then this fee is non-refundable. If you are traveling with a group then each person has to pay a processing fee separately. In the case of eTA extension, you can not extend the validity of a Canada eTA once it has expired, you must apply for a new one. 

6. Final thoughts on eTA Canada

The eTA for Canada is an essential travel document for citizens of visa-exempt countries whose citizens are planning to visit Canada by air. Its simple application process, quick approval times, and low cost make it a convenient option for travelers. Whether you are planning a business visit, tourism or leisure trip, or just transiting through Canada, the eTA streamlines the entry process and allows you to focus on enjoying your trip.