What is an Electronic Travel Authorization?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a mandatory entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. The eTA is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport and remains valid for up to five years or until the passport expires—whichever occurs first. If you obtain a new passport, you must apply for a new eTA.
A valid eTA allows you to travel to Canada multiple times for short stays, typically up to six months per visit. Please note that an eTA is not required for domestic travel within Canada.
Who needs an eTA to travel to Canada?
Categories of Travellers and Their eTA Requirements
There are four main categories of travellers, each with specific entry requirements for air travel to Canada:
Visa-exempt foreign nationals must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through a Canadian airport. An eTA is not required if arriving by land or sea (e.g., by car, bus, train, or cruise ship).
Citizens of certain visa-required countries may be eligible to apply for an eTA instead of a visa for air travel to Canada. However, these travellers must hold a visitor visa if entering Canada by land or sea, including via a cruise ship.
Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, must travel with a valid Canadian passport. American-Canadians may use either a valid Canadian or U.S. passport.
Canadian permanent residents must carry a valid Permanent Resident (PR) card or a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD).
Former Canadian residents: PR status does not expire. If you previously lived in Canada, you may still hold PR status. Confirm your status to avoid travel delays.
Visa-required individuals, including stateless persons and holders of alien passports, must apply for a visa and are not eligible for an eTA.
U.S. citizens are exempt from needing an eTA but must carry valid identification, such as a U.S. passport.
Lawful permanent residents of the United States are also exempt. They must travel with:
Valid proof of U.S. permanent resident status (e.g., Green Card), and
A valid passport from their country of nationality or an equivalent travel document.