
Canada Visa Online
As of November 10, 2016, travelers that require the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) will need to submit the application online. Failure to comply may result in delays at the airport. The ETA allows travelers to visit Canada for Tourism and Business and may stay for up to 6 months. Immigration will tell the visitor know how long exactly he/she may remain in Canada. The eTA will remain valid for 5 years and will be electronically linked to the visitor's passport. The eTA has a multiple entries status. The eTA is required if arriving by air only and if you are in transit (layover) through a Canadian airport.
Allowed Activities
Tourist ETA
- Sightseeing (recreational visits)
- Meeting with friends and/or relatives
- Holiday visit
Business ETA
- Attend business meetings
- Attend conferences
- Attend trainings
- Attend Seminars
Transit ETA
- Transit through Canada
Requirements for Application
Activities and Exiting Canada
The eTA allows you to visit Canada for Tourism/Business purposes, and if you are in transit. The eTA will allow you to stay for up to six months (the border officer will tell you how long you can stay) and travel to Canada as many times; as long as it's within the validity period. It is your responsibility to exit Canada when you are supposed to.
ETA Exemption
Canadian Citizens (including dual citizens), US Permanent Residents and US Citizens are not required to pay the eTA. Visitors that are eTA exempt must still ensure they travel with proper travel documents.
Passport Validity Upon Entry to Canada
Passport needs to be valid for 6 months from arrival date. If passport is about to expire, do not apply, kindly acquire a new passport.
Some Conditions Must be Met
You will need a valid travel document (passport), to be in good health, have no criminal or immigration-related convictions. You will also need to provide information regarding your: employment, home address, finances and previous visits to Canada (if any).
Canada eTA Visa Processing
Travel Documents
When travelling to Canada, you always need to carry proper travel documents and identification for yourself and any children travelling with you. Transport companies, such as airlines, must make sure you have proper, valid travel documents. If you do not have the proper documents, you may be delayed or unable to board the plane.
eTA Validity
Once approved, your eTA is valid for five years or until your passport expires - whichever comes first. You can come to Canada as many times as you wish as long as your eTA remains valid. On some cases, the approval process may take up to 72 hours. This is due to extended Immigration review. You will be notified visa email if your application is under review.
Do I need a Visa?
Tourists and Short-Term Business travelers from certain nations that are planning on visiting Canada are not required to apply for a visa. Instead, they must apply for the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). See below for the full list of nations that require the eTA and not a Visa.