Australian passport holders now require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to enter Canada by air.
If travelling by air to or through Canada, you will need to obtain an online travel authorisation (eTA) before entering the country.
Similar to the USA’s Electronic System Travel Authorisation (ESTA), all Australian passport holders are now required to obtain a Canada eTA prior to departure.
What is an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) and do I need one?
The Canadian eTA is a new entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals who are flying or transiting through Canada by air. Overland travel and travel by sea are exempt.
The eTA is electronically linked to your passport and valid for five years, or until your passport or other travel document expires.
Important note: The eTA is not a visa. It’s an entry requirement when travelling by air. If you do need a visa to enter Canada, you will still need to apply for the appropriate entry visa.
How do I apply for an eTA?
You can apply for your eTA online in a few simple steps. To apply online, you will need your valid passport, an email address and credit card to process payment.
The cost of application is $7CAD with payment by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, the only form of accepted payment.
Apply for your Canadian Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) here.
Canada eTA hints and tips for application.
When do I apply for an eTA?
It’s advisable to apply for your eTA as soon as you have your tickets booked, or a minimum five (5) days prior to departure.
While most applications are approved instantly with an email confirmation sent within a few minutes, there may be a need for you to provide further documentation.
As pre-clearance is required before boarding your flight to Canada, it must be completed prior to check-in at the airport or you may be denied boarding and travel.
When does the eTA need to be renewed?
After five years from first date of application, or when your passport expires or is replaced. Whichever comes first.
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