Who Can Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a travel requirement for certain individuals traveling to or transiting through Canada by air. Here’s a detailed breakdown of who is eligible to apply:
Eligibility Criteria for an eTA
You may apply for an eTA if you meet all three of the following requirements:
- Past Travel History:
- You have held a Canadian visitor visa (temporary resident visa) in the past 10 years, OR
- You currently hold a valid United States (U.S.) nonimmigrant visa.
- Purpose of Travel:
- You are coming to Canada for a temporary stay, typically up to six months.
- Travel Mode:
- You are flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport with a valid passport from one of the eligible visa-required countries.
Eligible Visa-Required Countries
Citizens of the following countries may apply for an eTA if they meet the criteria above:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Brazil
- Costa Rica
- Mexico
- Morocco
- Panama
- Philippines
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- St. Lucia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Seychelles
- Thailand
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Uruguay
If you don’t meet all these requirements, you will need to apply for a visitor visa (temporary resident visa) instead.
Who Does NOT Need an eTA?
- U.S. Citizens:
U.S. citizens are exempt from the eTA requirement. They only need to present a valid U.S. passport. - Canadian Citizens (Including Dual Citizens):
Canadian citizens cannot apply for an eTA. They must travel with a valid Canadian passport. Dual citizens must also use their Canadian passport when flying to Canada. - Canadian Permanent Residents:
Permanent residents of Canada cannot apply for an eTA. Instead, they must travel with:- A valid permanent resident card, OR
- A permanent resident travel document.
- Lawful Permanent Residents of the United States:
As of April 26, 2022, lawful permanent residents of the U.S. are exempt from the eTA requirement. They must carry:- A valid passport from their country of nationality, and
- A valid U.S. Green Card or equivalent proof of status.
Travel Scenarios and Document Requirements
| How You’re Traveling to Canada | Required Document(s) |
|---|---|
| Flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport, and eligible for an eTA | eTA or visitor visa |
| Flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport, and NOT eligible for an eTA | Visitor visa |
| Arriving by car, bus, train, or boat (including cruise ships) | Visitor visa |
| Traveling to Canada with a valid Canadian visa | No eTA required – use the visa |
| Flying back to Canada after renewing your work or study permit | eTA provided with permit renewal |
| Traveling to Canada to work or study for more than 6 months | Work or study permit (includes a visa) |
Important Considerations
- Basic Requirements: To enter Canada, you must meet general entry criteria, including valid travel documents, good health, financial support, and strong ties to your home country.
- Inadmissibility: Individuals involved in criminal activity, security threats, or certain health and financial issues may be deemed inadmissible to Canada, even with a valid eTA.
The eTA is designed to simplify air travel to Canada for eligible individuals. Be sure to review the requirements carefully and apply well in advance of your planned trip.