Entry Requirements for Canada
Everything you need to know before travelling to Canada – visas, eTA, and border crossing tips
Do I Need a Visa for Canada?
Whether you need a visa to enter Canada depends entirely on your nationality and how you are travelling (by air, land, or sea). There are three main entry options:
Required for citizens of countries on Canada's visa-required list.
Required for visa-exempt nationals travelling to Canada by air.
US citizens entering by air need only a valid US passport.
What is the eTA?
Electronic Travel Authorization for visa-exempt foreign nationals
The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a digital entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to Canada. It was introduced in 2016 and is now mandatory for most international travellers arriving by air.
Key Facts About the eTA
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | CAD $7 per person |
| Validity | Up to 5 years or until passport expires |
| Processing time | Usually minutes, but can take several days |
| Application | Online only — via official Canadian government website |
| Linked to | Your passport (electronically) |
| Required for | Air travel only (not required for land/sea entry) |
Apply for your eTA well before your travel date. While most applications are approved instantly, some may require additional processing. Do not book flights until your eTA is approved.
eTA Application
Simple 3-step process
Prepare Your Documents
Have your passport, credit card, and email address ready before starting.
Complete the Online Form
Fill in your personal details, passport information, and travel plans on the official Government of Canada website.
Pay & Receive Approval
Pay the CAD $7 fee. Most applicants receive approval by email within minutes.
Who Needs What?
Entry requirements by nationality for travel to Canada
Citizens of these countries do not need a visa but require an eTA when flying to Canada:
- 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
- 🇩🇪 Germany
- 🇫🇷 France
- 🇮🇹 Italy
- 🇪🇸 Spain
- 🇳🇱 Netherlands
- 🇸🇪 Sweden
- 🇳🇴 Norway
- 🇩🇰 Denmark
- 🇫🇮 Finland
- 🇨🇭 Switzerland
- 🇦🇹 Austria
- 🇧🇪 Belgium
- 🇵🇹 Portugal
- 🇦🇺 Australia
- 🇯🇵 Japan
- 🇰🇷 South Korea
- 🇳🇿 New Zealand
Citizens of these countries must apply for a Visitor Visa before travelling to Canada:
- 🇵🇱 Poland
- 🇨🇿 Czech Republic
- 🇭🇺 Hungary
- 🇷🇴 Romania
- 🇧🇬 Bulgaria
- 🇷🇺 Russia
- 🇨🇳 China
- 🇮🇳 India
- 🇧🇷 Brazil
- 🇲🇽 Mexico
- 🇵🇭 Philippines
- 🇿🇦 South Africa
- 🇪🇬 Egypt
- 🇹🇷 Turkey
- 🇮🇩 Indonesia
- 🇻🇳 Vietnam
US citizens can enter Canada with just a valid US passport. No visa or eTA required when flying.
- Valid US passport required
- No eTA needed for air travel
- NEXUS card accepted at land border
- US Trusted Traveler programs accepted
Applying for a Visitor Visa (TRV)
If your country requires a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to enter Canada, you will need to apply through the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) system or at your nearest Canadian visa application centre.
Required Documents
- Valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay)
- Completed application form (IMM 5257)
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of financial means to support your stay
- Letter of invitation from a Canadian host (if applicable)
- Travel itinerary (flight bookings, hotel reservations)
- Proof of ties to your home country (employment, property, family)
- Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) — required for most applicants
Important Timelines
| Step | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Biometrics appointment | 2–4 weeks advance booking recommended |
| Application processing | 4–12 weeks (varies by country) |
| Total lead time | Apply at least 3 months before travel |
Need Help with Your Application?
Our team can provide guidance on the entry requirements for your specific nationality. Contact us for personalised advice.
Contact Our TeamPro Tip
Always apply for your visa or eTA well in advance of your intended travel date. Processing times can vary, and no-refund airline tickets may be at risk if your application is delayed.