NEW – Effective as of November 10, 2016, all foreign travellers need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. If you are planning a trip to Gaspésie, Bas-Saint-Laurent, Côte-Nord or the Îles de la Madeleine, you may need an eTA.

Who needs an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?

All visa-exempt foreign travellers who wish to fly to or transit through Québec or the rest of Canada must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).* This measure comes into effect on November 10, 2016. A leniency period allows visitors to travel to Québec without an eTA until November 9, 2016.

*Exceptions include Canadian citizens, Canadian permanent residents, U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Travellers by land or sea are also not required to obtain an eTA. All other travellers need an eTA to travel to Canada, including the maritime regions of Québec: Gaspésie, Bas-Saint-Laurent, Côte-Nord and the Îles de la Madeleine.

How do I apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?

If you are planning to fly to the province of Québec or the rest of Canada on or after November 10, 2016, you need to obtain an eTA. To apply for one, visit the Government of Canada website and fill out the application for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Applications for an eTA may be processed within minutes or take several days. It is best to obtain your eTA before you book your flight to Canada.

How much does an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) cost?

It costs CAN$7.

How long is my Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) valid for travel in Canada (or Québec)?

Once approved, your eTA is valid for five (5) years or until your current passport expires, whichever comes first. You may travel to Canada as many times as you wish during that period.

For more information and to apply for an eTA, visit www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta.asp.