eTA / Visa Checker Canada 2026

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an eTA or visa to visit Canada?

It depends on your country of citizenship and how you are travelling. Citizens of visa-exempt countries (such as the UK, Australia, France, Germany, Japan) need an eTA for air travel but nothing for land crossings, while citizens of countries not on the visa-exempt list (such as China, India, Philippines, Nigeria) need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). US citizens are fully exempt from both, regardless of travel mode. Use this checker with your specific country to see your exact requirement.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) · Find out if you need a visa or an eTA

How long does it take to get a Canadian eTA?

Most eTA applications are approved within minutes of online submission, though some may require additional processing. It is recommended to apply at least 72 hours before your planned travel date. The eTA costs $7 CAD and is valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, allowing multiple entries. It is linked to your passport number, so if you get a new passport you must apply for a new eTA.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) · Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): How to apply

What is a conditional eTA and how do I know if I qualify?

A conditional eTA is available to nationals of certain countries (such as Brazil) who meet specific eligibility criteria. Typically, you may qualify if you have held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years, currently hold a valid US nonimmigrant visa, or have travelled to Canada recently. If you meet the criteria, you can apply for the $7 eTA instead of the more expensive and time-consuming TRV. This checker will tell you if conditional eTA applies to your country and what the criteria are.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) · Expanded eTA eligibility (partially visa-required countries)

I have dual citizenship. Which passport should I use for Canada?

If one of your citizenships is Canadian, you must enter Canada on your Canadian passport. You cannot use an eTA or visa from your other nationality. For dual citizens of two non-Canadian countries, check the entry requirements for both passports and travel on the one with the most favourable status (e.g., visa-exempt over visa-required). Airlines check your travel document at boarding, so ensure your eTA or visa matches the passport you present.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) · Travelling as a dual Canadian citizen

How does this calculator work?

Select your country of citizenship and indicate whether you are travelling to Canada by air. The eTA requirement applies only to air travel, so visa-exempt nationals arriving by land or sea do not need one. The checker looks up your country's IRCC classification and determines whether you need an eTA, a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), or are fully exempt, along with applicable government fees, estimated processing time, and biometrics requirements. For countries with conditional eTA eligibility, it explains the specific criteria that must be met to qualify for the eTA option instead of a full visa.