Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Are you planning a trip to Canada by air?

Planning a vacation is always very exciting, isn’t it? But I’m sure we can all agree that preparing documents to enter a foreign country is the least exciting part and can even be stressful at times.

The first document that comes to mind is probably the visitor visa. Canada is a country that thrives on multiculturalism and diversity. We have many good connections with various countries all over the world. If you are from one of these countries, you can enter Canada with an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). It will not save only your time, however it will also save you money!

To find out if you need a visitor visa or not, do a quick online assessment here:

 

For those who qualify for eTA, you are in luck! Electronic travel authorization is very convenient as it is valid for up to five years! During these five years, you can come to Canada as many times as you like as long as your stay does not exceed 6 months at a time. But, remember to keep an eye on your passport expiration date. If you renew your passport, your eTA will not be automatically renewed. You will need to re-apply. For such a convenient service, you’d think the cost may be quite high. But on the contrary, eTA applications only cost $7CAD per person.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Here is a quick summary of what the application process will be like:

1. Make sure you have a passport, preferably one that will remain valid for another 5 years.
2. Have a debit card or credit card available to pay the online application fee.
3. Fill out the necessary information. Double check your passport number and submit.
4. Pay the application fee of $7CAD
5. Receive a confirmation email for your eTA application.
6. If additional documentation is requested, you will be notified by email.

Some applicants receive results within minutes of applying while others receive them in several days. Nevertheless, you will be able to check your status online. Instructions for filling out the eTA application form in various languages can be found here:

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta/apply.html

Now, let’s assume your eTA application was approved. Does that mean you are all set to enter Canada to enjoy your vacation? Unfortunately, not quite just yet. Having an eTA does not give you a free pass with our Canada border agents. Once you arrive in Canada, you still need to convince our border agents that you are solely here for vacation and will leave Canada once your vacation is over. The most important part to entering Canada is to BE HONEST. We all know security agents can be intimidating, but please understand they are asking questions because it is apart of their job. If you are honest in your answers and provide proof such as hotel reservation confirmations, return flight information, Canadian contacts if you’re visiting family or friends, etc. you shouldn’t have a problem entering Canada.

Now, if you don’t plan to buy a return flight until near the end of your vacation for some reason, I recommend having some proof of ties to your home country that will reassure the officer that you will not remain in Canada illegally. Some example documents you could provide are proof of employment that you will return to, financial documents (steady income back home), etc. We hope you found this information useful and if you would like any assistance with your applications, contact one of our IRCC licensed immigration consultants. We wish you good luck with your application and have a lovely vacation in Canada!

 

Regards,

SmartImmigrant(Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA))

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