How to apply online for an eTA Canada

If you want to get to explore Canada's fantastic nature and interesting cities, you should make sure you apply for an eTA. Applying for an eTA is easy, but there are a few rules. Here you will find the information you need so that you can go to Canada prepared.

Wat is an eTA Canada?

To travel to Canada it is mandatory for all travelers flying to Canada without a Canadian passport or visa to be in possession of a valid eTA (electronic Travel Authorization). Applying for an eTA is quick, easy and can be done online. You pay about € 20,- per person for this. To apply for a visa, you must make an appointment with the consulate of Canada.

The eTA is linked to your passport and is shared with the airline and the authorities at the airports of your departure and arrival. You do not have to take this with you printed, so think of our nature and save the trees.

When is that eTA required?

An eTA Canada is required if you have Dutch (or Belgian) nationality and want to visit Canada for a holiday, business trip, study or family visit. You also need one when making a switch in Canada.

Travelers who do not have a valid eTA Canada will not be able to check in on flights to Canada and will be denied boarding. Even if the flight to Canada only serves to transfer to another country, an eTA is mandatory; even if the airport is not left during the transfer.

Period of validity of eTA Canada

If you have an eTA, it is valid for a maximum of five years. Or until the expiry date of your passport (if it is earlier). You can enter and leave Canada unlimited during this period with a maximum stay of 6 months. And your passport must be valid for at least one more day when you travel out of Canada.

Example

Your eTA application was approved on March 30, 2020 and your passport expires on July 15, 2023. You may then make unlimited (max. 6 months consecutive) trips to Canada. You must be out of Canada by 14 July 2023 at the latest.

eTA Canada Terms

There are some conditions that you also have to take into account with an eTA:

  • The Canadian Immigration Service is entitled at any time to withdraw or shorten the validity of a visa or eTA, if it sees reason to do so.
  • Upon arrival in Canada, you must present the ticket for your onward or return flight.
  • You visit Canada for vacation, business trip, study, family visit or for a transfer
  • Business travel is permitted with an eTA, but you may not be employed by a Canadian employer.

How to apply for an eTA Canada?

There are several organizations that can arrange an eTA Canada. Take a look at one of the organizations below and see what gives you the most trusted feeling:

Double check your details when applying. With these organizations you can make the payment via iDeal, PayPal or Creditcard.

The eTA form asks questions about the traveler, the travel plans and background. The Canadian government's Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship assesses your eTA. If all goes well, the eTA will be awarded.

When do I apply for the eTA?

Via online applications, it is possible 24/7 all year round from the Netherlands, but also from abroad. As long as you have access to the internet. It is logical that you do not know exactly when you will arrive, but try to have made your eTA application at least a week before arrival.

Express delivery (within 24 hours)

At some organizations you can request an urgent procedure for an extra charge. This is faster in most cases, but there is absolutely no guarantee that it will actually be arranged within 24 hours. Just do it in time if you can arrange it in advance and save the extra costs for an urgent procedure.

You have arranged an eTA and are leaving soon?

If you have any questions, send me an email. Then I try to help you as much as possible. If you have any questions about an requested eTA, please ask your visa organization or the embassy.

And check the official website to read the latest information about travel advice for Canada before you leave.