What is an eTA?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals who are traveling to a country by air. It is linked electronically to your passport and is used to screen travellers before they board a flight. An eTA is not a visa, but a pre-screening requirement that allows eligible travellers to visit a country for short stays (usually for tourism, transit, or business).
It is applied for online
It is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport
It is required only for air travel (in most countries)
Where are eTAs required?
Some of the most common countries that require eTAs include:
Country | eTA requirement applicability | Validity |
Canada | Visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to Canada | Up to 5 years or until passport expires |
Australia | eVisitor or ETA required for many non-visa nationals | 12 months, multiple entries |
New Zealand | NZeTA required for visa-waiver countries | 2 years |
United Kingdom | ETA system launching in phases for selected countries (from 2023 onward) | 2 years |
South Korea | K-ETA required for eligible nationalities | 2 years |
Note: Requirements and eligible nationalities vary by country. Always check the official immigration website of the destination.
How to apply for an eTA
Most eTA applications follow a simple online process:
Visit the official government website of the destination country.
Complete the application form with passport, travel, and personal information.
Pay the fee (usually between $5–$20 USD).
Receive confirmation (via email, typically within minutes to 72 hours).
Required documents
When applying for an eTA, you’ll usually need:
A valid passport
Credit/debit card for payment
Email address for confirmation
Details about your trip or transit
When is an eTA required?
Air travel: Most countries only require an eTA for travellers arriving by air.
Not for land/sea arrivals: eTAs may not be required for land or sea border crossings (e.g., entering Canada from the U.S. by car).
Transit travellers: Even if you're not leaving the airport, an eTA might be required if transiting by air through certain countries.
Common issues and tips
Use the official website: Beware of third-party websites that charge more or scam users.
Double-check passport number: Your eTA is linked to your passport, any typo may render it invalid.
Update your eTA: If you get a new passport, you’ll need to reapply for a new eTA.
Not a visa substitute: An eTA does not guarantee entry; border officers can still deny entry on arrival.