Canada eTA FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

The eTA is generally valid for 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If you change passports, you will need to obtain a new eTA.

The eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a simplified electronic travel authorization for citizens of visa-exempt countries (for example France, Belgium, Switzerland) traveling to Canada by air. A visa is a more comprehensive document, required for citizens who are not visa-exempt, and generally requires a more thorough review.

Most applications are processed within minutes, and within 72 hours at the latest. In some cases, processing can take several additional days due to further checks carried out by Canadian authorities.

If refused, you will generally receive an explanation by email from Canadian immigration authorities (IRCC). Depending on the reason for refusal, a new application can be submitted, or a traditional visa can be applied for instead.

With a valid eTA, you can enter Canada as many times as you like during its validity period, as long as each stay does not exceed the authorized length of stay (generally up to 6 months).

Canadian and U.S. citizens do not need an eTA. Also exempt are travelers who already hold a valid Canadian visa, as well as those entering Canada exclusively by land or sea.

Yes. Since the eTA is electronically linked to your passport number, it automatically becomes invalid as soon as you get a new passport. In that case, a new eTA must be requested.

Minor changes, such as a new email address, can be updated later through our customer service. For significant changes (for example a new passport), a new application is required.