What is the Electronic Travel Authorization Program (eTA) of Canada?
The Electronic Travel Authorization Program of Canada is an entry requirement for Visa Exempt Foreign Nationals.
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is linked to the person’s passport and valid for 5 years, or when the person’s passport expires, whichever comes first. Any renewal or changes to a passport requires a new eTA application.
Visa Exempt Foreign National – refers to a foreign national who is not a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident and does not normally need a visa to enter Canada. Any person who does require a visa, or a person who must apply through another immigration program, or is a stateless person, cannot use the eTA program.
Requirements for the Electronic Travel Authorization Program
Applies only when a Visa Exempt Foreign National travels to Canada by plane or is in transit through Canada by way of any one of Canada’s airports. It does not apply if this person travels to Canada by car, train, or boat.
Applies only to foreign national who, per their circumstances and reasons for their visit, do not require any visa to enter and stay in Canada. Dual Citizenship with Canada does not allow use of the eTA.
Benefits of the Electronic Travel Authorization Program
Allows you to travel anywhere in Canada as often as you want, including short-stays of a duration no longer than 6 months. To travel while within Canada, an eTA is not required.
Restrictions of the Electronic Travel Authorization Program
- Entry into Canada is not guaranteed.
- You still must carry and present your passport and/or residency card (ie: USA green card) to the Border Services Officer.
- You still must validate your visit and stay.
- A Border Services Officer may still refuse you, especially if it is based on any Covid-19 restrictions.
- Visa Exempt Foreign National – refers to a visa-exempt foreign national who is not a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident and does not normally need a visa to enter Canada. This means a person who requires a visa or must apply to a different immigration program (ie: refugee), or a stateless person, cannot use the eTA program.
Exemptions to the Electronic Travel Authorization Program
There are various conditions that a person may be exempt from having to apply for an eTA, such as an American (U.S.A) Citizen with a valid passport and identification. To view all the exemptions listed by Immigration Canada, please view their documentation here: Entry Requirements by Country / Territory
What can Firebird Consultants do for your application to the Electronic Travel Authorization Program?
Firebird Consultants will help you with the initial assessment, application preparation and correspondence on your behalf with the federal and/or provincial government until the final decision is made on your application to the Electronic Travel Authorization Program.
If you are looking for a Russian speaking immigration consultant in Vernon, Kelowna, Okanagan, or in Canada to provide immigration support – please contact us for a free assessment.