What Can You Do with a Canada eTA?
The Canada eTA is an electronic travel authorisation required for eligible nationals flying into Canada.
It is a single, standalone permit. There are no types or categories; one eTA covers a range of permitted travel purposes.
eTA Quick Facts
- Stay: Up to 6 months per visit
- Validity: 5 years from approval, or until passport expiry
- Entry: Multiple entry
Permitted Travel Purposes
A valid Canada eTA covers the travel purposes listed below. Paid work and employment are not permitted under an eTA.
Tourism
An approved eTA allows entry into Canada by air for holidays, sightseeing, and leisure travel. You must enter using the same passport linked to your eTA.
Airport Transit
Travelling through Canada on your way to another country? A valid eTA covers air transit through Canadian airports. It does not apply to land or sea crossings.
Business Visits
The eTA permits short-term business travel, attending meetings, conferences, and business events. It does not authorise employment or paid work of any kind in Canada.
Family Visits
You can use the eTA to visit relatives or attend family occasions in Canada.
Short-Term Study
The eTA covers study programmes of up to 6 months. Courses running longer than 6 months require a separate study permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The eTA is linked to the passport used at the time of application. An expired passport means you must apply for a new eTA with your renewed passport.
You will need to provide personal, travel, contact, nationality, and passport details.
Apply at least one week before your travel date to allow sufficient time for processing.
Content Disclaimer: Last updated in May 2026. Requirements and regulations may change; always verify with official Canadian government sources before travel.
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