Introduction

Before we travel to Canada, everyone needs to make sure they have the correct entry paperwork in place. For most people travelling on a British passport, this means applying for an eTA, which stands for Electronic Travel Authorisation.

An eTA is not a full visa. It is an online travel authorisation linked to your passport. You need it before you can board a flight to Canada, including if you are only transiting through a Canadian airport. It costs CAN$7 through the official Government of Canada website.

This is your responsibility to complete before travel.

Step 1 — Check whether you need an eTA

You normally need an eTA if:

• you are travelling on a British passport

• you are flying to Canada

• you are transiting through a Canadian airport on the way somewhere else

You do not usually need an eTA if you are entering Canada by road, rail, boat or cruise ship, but you still need the correct travel documents.

If you are travelling on a passport from another country, check the official Canadian guidance before applying.

Step 2 — Use the official Government of Canada website

Only use the official Government of Canada eTA application page.

The official cost is CAN$7. There are third-party websites that charge more, so do not just click the first advert or search result.

Step 3 — Have these ready before you start

You will need:

• your passport

• a valid email address

• a debit or credit card

• a few minutes to complete the online form

The application form asks for basic personal, passport and travel information.

Step 4 — Enter your passport details very carefully

This is the most important part.

Your eTA is electronically linked to your passport. The passport number, name and details must match exactly. If you enter the passport number incorrectly, you may not be allowed to board the flight.

Use the passport you will actually travel with. If you renew your passport after getting an eTA, you will need to apply for a new eTA.

Step 5 — Pay the fee

At the end of the form, pay the CAN$7 fee.

You need to pay for each person separately. There is no group eTA application.

Step 6 — Wait for the confirmation email

Most applications are approved within minutes, but some can take longer. You may be asked to provide extra information or documents before approval.

Check your email and junk folder.

Do not leave this until the last minute.

Step 7 — Save your approval

Once approved, keep the confirmation email somewhere safe.

You do not normally need to print it, because the eTA is linked electronically to your passport, but it is sensible to have the approval email available when travelling.

An approved eTA is usually valid for up to five years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Step 8 — Remember that an eTA does not guarantee entry

The eTA allows you to travel to Canada by air. Final entry is decided by Canadian border officers when you arrive. They may ask about your trip, where you are staying, how long you are staying, and whether you have the funds and documents needed for your visit.

Important note on criminal convictions

Canada can refuse entry to people with certain criminal convictions or offences, including some things that people may not expect to cause problems.

If you have any conviction, caution, drink-driving offence, drug offence, assault, theft, or anything similar that you are unsure about, check the official Canadian guidance early. Do not leave this until the airport.