Navigating a Canadian eTA Application: A Complete Guide
Are you currently planning to take a short trip to Canada? The country offers the perfect environment for a Christmas getaway, thus prompting people to travel to visit this part of the world. That being said, there is one thing that you will have to do when taking this trip: fill out the Canadian eTA application. The process is easy, but requires your whole attention.
So, if you want to avoid such complications then make sure you make yourself aware of the different things related to the process. This way you can rest assured that you won't face any issues.
What is a Canadian eTA?
We will start this journey by telling you the basics first.
The Canadian eTA is an electronic entry permit. But all countries cannot get this permit. It is only a few who get this facility. This form includes the names of all the countries that can visit the country without needing any visa. There are many countries who are eligible for this and a clear list regarding this is offered through the official website.
The Canada ETA is linked to your passport after approval. After that, your passport becomes eligible for tourism and business visits and the same goes for transit purposes. It's a simpler, quicker alternative to the traditional visa and aims to enhance border security while facilitating smoother travel.
Differences Between eTA and Traditional Visa
Well, both the eTA and traditional visas allow entry to Canada. These are just a permit that helps in staying within the border of the country.
The eTA is issued within minutes of an online application through the official visa application website. Once you get this, the permit will stay valid for 5 years unless you get a new passport. But a traditional visa application requires you to physically go to the embassy. This method usually takes up a lot of time to get approved. Moreover, one can also get these from the visa application website of Canada.
How to know if you need the Canada eTA?
There are a few things that determine why you are required to have this permit before visiting Canada. Some of these factors are:
Eligible Countries
There are a few countries, the citizens of which do not require a visa to enter Canada. It is these individuals who can apply for an eTA. Some of the countries that enjoy this perk are Australia, Japan, and the United States, and others. There is a complete list of all the visa-exempt countries provided on the visa application website. Whereas, people residing from India, China, and a few others are not allowed to get this. In this case, you will need a different type of Canadian visa.
Travel Scenarios Requiring an eTA
You will only have to fill out the Canadian eTA application if you are flying to Canada for business, tourism, or a short stay. On the other hand, you will not need an eTA if you are transiting through a Canadian airport to reach your destination. Lastly, you also will not need this if you are coming to Canada by land or sea.
Eligibility Requirements for the Canadian eTA
There are a few things other than your residing country that help in proving your eligibility. Some of these eligibility requirements are:
- Have a valid passport (with 6 months validity left) from an eligible country.
- Make sure you are healthy while getting the Canadian eTA.
- Have no criminal convictions or involvements in a case.
- No previous reports of you violating the immigration rules (this includes overstaying previous visits to Canada).
Documents needed for a Canadian eTA Application
Well, carrying out the application step involves you providing a few important documents. This is exactly why we suggest you carry all the documents for Canadian eTA.
Passport Requirements
The most important document that you will need for the Canadian eTA application is your passport. This should be from a visa-exempt country and have a validity of at least 6 months. This is important because your passport needs to be active when you are in Canada. Plus, you might have to face a lot of trouble if it expires during your stay.
Additional Information
There are a few more things that you will have to submit other than your passport. This refers to your personal information that helps build your identity more. Some of these things are:
- Your full name and date of birth
- Active Contact information (email and address)
- Answer questions about health and criminal background
Steps for Canadian eTA Application
The application process is pretty simple. Some of the steps of this process are:
- Visit our online portal.
- Select the right type of visa.
- Fill out the eTA application form and answer all questions properly.
- Add your documents and photographs.
- Pay the fees with an active payment method.
Things that you should keep in mind
Add accurate information
Accuracy is definitely the key when it comes to filling out your eTA application. So, make sure to add all correct information that matches your passport. This is more important because any discrepancies in the details always lead to delay and sometimes even rejection. Most important of all, you should double-check every little detail before submitting the form.
Fees for the Canadian eTA application
Keep an active payment method handy so that you don't have to waste any time. Another important thing to remember is that the Canadian visa fee is non-refundable. So, you will not receive the money back if the Canadian eTA application gets denied.
Validity period of the eTA
Your Canadian eTA will stay active for 5 years or for the validity period of your passport. During this window, you get multiple chances to make an entry and exit from Canada. You will not have to get another eTA till the time your passport stays valid.
Rules for Extending Your Stay
The Canadian eTA cannot be extended beyond its validity. So, you will just be able to stay in the country for 5 years and not a day more. You will have to get another eTA or a different visa if you want to stay for more than that period. If you do not leave the country or get a new visa then you might face a few repercussions.
Common Reasons for eTA Denials
There are a few things that might get your application declined. This is why, it is best for you to know these, thus increasing your chance of acceptance.
Incomplete or Incorrect Information
The most common reason for eTA denial is wrong information. This is why, all applicants are always advised to check the form multiple times to recognize any mistakes in the first place. Moreover, you should strictly avoid lying and answer all the questions honestly.
Criminal Record
There is a high chance that your application might get declined if you have any criminal history. Moreover, if you have any history of immigration violations like overstaying a visa or being deported, then that will also affect the eTA status. If you get detained for the Eta for your criminal history then try to get another Canadian visa.
Do you feel confident to fill out a Canadian eTA application?
Applying for the Canadian eTA is really simple.. All that you have to check is whether you are eligible for the permit and offer all the necessary details. Plus, we believe it is always a good idea to apply for your Canadian eTA well in advance of your trip. This way you will at least have the peace of mind that the most important thing in the process is over. Plus, this will give you time to solve any issues during the Canadian eTA application approval.
However, if you still face any problem then just give a call to the Canadian HelpDesk.
Check your eligibility for eTA Canada Visa and apply for eTA Canada Visa 72 hours in advance of your flight. Citizens of many countries including British citizens, New Zealand citizens, Spanish citizens, South Korean citizens and Swiss citizens can apply online for eTA Canada Visa.