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~$7
Gov. fee
5 yrs
Typical validity
Air
Travel mode
RCIC
Complex help
We prepare clarification and next-step strategy for flagged applications.
Book consultation →The eTA replaced the visa requirement for citizens of visa-exempt countries who travel to Canada by air.
Apply online at Canada.ca. Most applicants receive approval within minutes by email. Some applications are selected for additional review - we assist complex cases.
The eTA is ONLY required for air travel. If you are a visa-exempt country citizen arriving by land or sea (from the US), you do NOT need an eTA.
Once approved, your eTA is linked electronically to your passport and valid for 5 years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first.
The government fee is just $7 CAD. Be wary of third-party websites charging much more - only apply through Canada.ca or a licensed RCIC.
Your nationality and travel method determine whether you need an eTA, a visa, or nothing at all.
Dual citizens - if you hold citizenship of both a visa-exempt country AND another country, you must travel on your visa-exempt country passport and get an eTA linked to that passport.
Only apply at Canada.ca/eTA. Third-party sites often charge excessive fees. The official government fee is CAD $7.
Enter your passport details, contact information, travel history, and answer eligibility questions honestly.
Pay by credit or debit card. The fee is non-refundable regardless of the decision.
Most approved within minutes. Some applications are selected for review and may take a few days or weeks. We assist if your application is placed under review.
The eTA is electronic - no sticker or stamp. It is tied to your passport number. When you check in for your flight, the airline verifies electronically.
Most eTAs are instant - but these situations require more careful preparation.
If you were previously refused a Canadian visa, had a removal order, or overstayed in any country, your eTA may be flagged for review or refused. VMC advises on disclosure and preparation.
Any criminal conviction - even a minor one from years ago - can result in eTA refusal due to inadmissibility. A TRP or Criminal Rehabilitation may be needed before you can travel.
Dual citizens from visa-required and visa-exempt countries must use the right passport. Using the wrong one can lead to refusal at check-in or the port of entry.
An eTA refusal does not always mean you cannot visit Canada. We review the reason, advise whether a full TRV application or TRP is the right next step, and prepare the file.
We review your situation, identify inadmissibility issues, and find the right pathway to get you to Canada.
| Feature | eTA | Visitor Visa (TRV) |
|---|---|---|
| Who needs it | Visa-exempt countries | Visa-required countries |
| How to apply | Online, Canada.ca | Online, IRCC portal |
| Fee | CAD $7 | CAD $100 |
| Processing | Minutes (usually) | 2-6 weeks |
| Documents | Minimal | Full supporting docs |
| Validity | 5 years | Up to 10 years |
| Travel method | Air only | Air, land, sea |
| Entry decision | Border officer at arrival | Border officer at arrival |
If you have no criminal history, no prior refusals, and no immigration complications - apply directly at Canada.ca for $7. It takes 5 minutes.
We always recommend the official government site for straightforward cases.
If your application is placed under review, you have a prior refusal, criminal record, or immigration complications - we prepare the supporting documentation and advise on the right approach.
An eTA refusal triggers inadmissibility review. VMC advises on Criminal Rehabilitation, TRP, or full TRV application as the appropriate next step.
Still have questions? Our licensed RCICs answer within 24 hours.
Book your Expert ConsultationMost eTAs are straightforward - but if yours is complicated, our team's licensed RCICs make sure your travel plans aren't derailed.