Everything you need to know about applying for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in Canada
Are you wondering about the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to go to Canada? Not sure if you will need one for the International Experience Canada program? Here is everything you need to know about the ETA.
What is the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?
In effect since 2016, the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a requirement for entry into Canada for people from countries for which no visa is required when they want to enter Canada by air.
The Electronic Travel Authorization is an electronic document that will be linked to your passport for up to five years, or until your passport expires. Your ETA will be useful when you arrive in Canada, to convince the customs officer that you have the right to enter Canada.
Find the official documentation on the Government of Canada website.
Who should use the Electronic Travel Authorization?
Travellers to Canada who require an AVE to enter Canada by air are those who do not need to show a visa.
In other words, if you do not need to show a visa, you will probably need to show an AVE.
Several countries are exempt from the visa requirement, including France and Belgium. In fact, French and Belgian travellers, as well as travellers from these countries, are exempt from the visa requirement when entering Canada. They will need to present an AVE.
Finally, other groups of individuals are exempt from visa requirements, such as Canadian citizens, travelers with permanent residency in Canada and French citizens of St. Pierre and Miquelon. Other conditions apply and since everyone's situation is different, it is your responsibility to validate whether you need a visa or an AVE.
How do I get an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?
Applying for an EV is done online and costs only $7.
Although the process usually takes only a few minutes, we still recommend that you apply before you book your flight to Canada.
To apply, you will need the following items:
- Your passport number
- The form available on theArriveCAN application
- A bank card
- Your email address
To get your AVE, start the process now on your ArriveCAN app.
Need help? official help guide for EV applications applications is available.
With an EIC permit (PVT or Young Professionals), do I need an AVE?
When you wish to enter Canada with an EIC permit, it is necessary to have a valid AVE. However, you do not need to do anything additional to your permit application!
In fact, when you receive your permit with International Experience Canada, you will see that an AVE number has already been assigned to you. It is normally written on the top of the work permit and on your Canadian immigration account.
Please note: If the passport linked to your EIC permit is different from the one you are traveling with, it is necessary to apply for a new EIA. In fact, your EV application is linked to the passport you held at the time of application. If you change your passport afterwards, no EV will be linked to the new passport. You may be refused entry to the plane.
Still not sure if you need an AVE? Check out this tool from Immigration Canada to find out more!
In short, the Electronic Travel Authorization is not too complicated!
This concludes our article on the AVE. If you have any other questions, we invite you to refer to the Government of Canada Assistance Centre, which will undoubtedly be able to enlighten you.
In addition, our article on the different problematic situations encountered when applying for an EIC permit might interest you. Enjoy your reading!
