Are you planning a trip to Canada, but are unsure if you need to apply for a visa or other legal documents for your visit? Let us help! We’re here to clear up any questions you may have, and hopefully get you on your way to your perfect holiday to Canada.
What is an Electronic Travel Authorization?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. An eTA is electronically linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA.
With a valid eTA, you can travel to Canada as often as you want for short stays, normally for up to six months at a time. It’s important to note that having an eTa doesn’t guarantee your entry to Canada. When you arrive, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and other documents, and you must convince the officer that you are eligible for entry into Canada.
Who Needs an eTA to Travel to Canada?
Travellers have been categorised into four different groups:
- Travellers who need an eTa
- Travellers who may be eligible to apply for an eTa
- Travellers who cannot apply for an eTa and need to carry other identification
- Travellers who are exempt from the eTa requirement
The most important one for you to know is category number one! British citizens, including British overseas citizens, British overseas territory citizens and British Subjects with a right of abode in the United Kingdom must get an eTa before boarding their flight to Canada.
If you choose to travel to Canada by bus, train or boat, including cruise ships, then you do not need to apply for an eTa.
How Do I Apply for an eTA for Travel to Canada?
You can apply for your eTa online through the official Government of Canada website. It takes a couple of minutes to complete and most applicants get their eTA approval via an email within minutes. However, some requests can take several days to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents. For this reason, we recommend applying well in advance of your flight to avoid any delays or complications.
The eTa costs CAD $7 and when applying, make sure to have your passport, credit card and email address handy. It is important to be very careful when entering all your information, particularly your passport details, as this can affect your entry to Canada if your information is incorrect.
At The Airport
You must use the ArriveCAN app to provide mandatory travel information required for entry into Canada. You must also make sure you’re using the newest version of ArriveCAN. If you previously submitted your information using an older version of ArriveCan, you must download the latest version and resubmit your information.
The mobile app is free and secure and is the official Government of Canada platform. It is available in English, French and Spanish and is available on both iOS and Android devices.
Upon presenting your passport to airline staff, they will check that your approved eTa is linked to your passport and will confirm if you have a valid eTa. If you do not have a valid eTa, you will not be able to board the flight.
Canadian Getaways
Now that you’re clued up with everything you need to know about entry requirements and documents to Canada, it’s time to book your break! Do you fancy a Canadian city break, or do you have your heart set on exploring the beautiful ski slopes? Either way, you can rest assured you’ve bagged an amazing deal with our exclusive online discounts.
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