How to apply for the Canada eTA

What do you need to apply for a Canada eTA?

A valid passport from a visa-exempt country or territory (the one you will travel on), a valid email address, and a payment method: Visa, Mastercard or American Express (also pre-paid), Visa Debit, Debit Mastercard, UnionPay or JCB.

The details must match the passport exactly. A misspelled name is the most common reason for refusal.

How do you apply online, step by step?

Open the eTA application form from the official Government of Canada page (canada.ca), answer the questions, then pay the CAN$7 fee (non-refundable) right after you complete the form.

The form is only in English and French. Your information can't be saved and you have limited time to complete it; you can extend your session if you need a few more minutes.

You can only apply and pay for one person at a time. Print your receipt right away: you won't be able to print it later or receive a copy of it.

How long does it take to get the eTA?

Most applications are approved within minutes. IRCC contacts you by email only, so also check your junk mail folder.

If you need to submit documents, an email with instructions is sent within 72 hours. Apply before booking a non-refundable flight.

Check before you submit

Passport number, expiry date and email address — that is where the decision goes.

Where can you get help with the application?

This site is an independent guide and does not process applications. For questions about the eTA form, IRCC offers an online enquiry form.

From outside Canada, IRCC also answers eTA questions by phone, in English and French, Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time (see IRCC's eTA help page).