Canadian eTAApply eTA

Understanding the eTA Process

Complete Guide to the Canadian eTA Process

Understanding how the Canadian eTA process works is essential for any traveler planning a trip to Canada by air. From application submission to border arrival, the eTA process has several stages, each with specific requirements and timelines. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire process, explaining what happens at each stage, what you need to know, and what to expect.

The eTA process is designed to be straightforward and efficient, with most applications receiving approval within minutes. However, some applications may require additional review or information. Knowing the process helps you prepare properly and avoid delays that could affect your travel plans.

6 Stages

Complete eTA Process

80-85%

Instant Approval Rate

5 Years

eTA Validity Period

Seconds-6W

Review Timeframe

The 6 Stages of the eTA Process

The Canadian eTA process consists of six distinct stages. Understanding each stage helps you know what to expect and how to prepare. Let's explore each stage in detail.

📋

Stage 1: Pre-Application Preparation

Duration: Flexible - Your Timeline

Before starting your eTA application, you need to gather required documents and verify your eligibility. This preparation stage is crucial for a smooth application experience.

What Happens in This Stage

  • •Check your country eligibility for eTA
  • •Verify your passport validity (at least 6 months recommended)
  • •Gather required personal information
  • •Prepare email address for application notifications
  • •Review complete requirements on our requirements page
  • •Ensure you meet health and security criteria
📝

Stage 2: Online Application Submission

Duration: 5-15 Minutes

Complete the online eTA application form with accurate personal information. The application collects biographical data, passport details, travel plans, and security questions.

What Happens in This Stage

  • •Access the eTA online application portal
  • •Create account or log in to existing account
  • •Fill in personal information matching passport exactly
  • •Enter passport details and validity dates
  • •Provide email address for communication
  • •Answer health and security questions truthfully
  • •Review all entered information carefully
  • •Submit application and receive reference number
🔍

Stage 3: Application Review & Processing

Duration: Seconds to 6 Weeks

After submission, your application enters the review stage where automated systems and border officials assess your eligibility. The system checks your information against multiple databases.

What Happens in This Stage

  • •Automated system validates submitted information
  • •Cross-reference check with security databases
  • •Review of health and criminal background responses
  • •Background and security screening process
  • •May require additional information (if flagged)
  • •Manual review if application requires it
  • •System processes majority of applications instantly
✉️

Stage 4: Decision & Notification

Duration: Instant to Several Weeks

You receive a decision notification via email at the address provided during application. The decision will indicate approval, pending status, or refusal with explanation.

What Happens in This Stage

  • •Email notification with application status
  • •Approved status: eTA linked to passport
  • •Pending status: waiting for additional info
  • •Refusal notice with reasons provided
  • •Reference number for future inquiries
  • •Save confirmation email for travel
🎫

Stage 5: eTA Activation & Travel Preparation

Duration: Immediate Upon Approval

Once approved, your eTA is electronically linked to your passport. You don't receive a physical document—the authorization is digital and connected to your passport number.

What Happens in This Stage

  • •eTA automatically linked to your passport
  • •Valid for 5 years from issuance
  • •No physical document to carry
  • •Electronically verified at airport check-in
  • •Plan your travel arrangements
  • •Ensure passport remains valid
  • •Remember eTA is for air travel only
✈️

Stage 6: Airport Check-In & Arrival

Duration: At Time of Travel

When you arrive at the airport for your flight to Canada, present your valid passport. The airline verifies your eTA status electronically.

What Happens in This Stage

  • •Present valid passport at check-in
  • •Airline verifies eTA electronically
  • •Check-in process proceeds normally
  • •Board flight to Canada
  • •Upon arrival, present passport to immigration
  • •Answer standard arrival questions
  • •Receive entry stamp and admission to Canada

What Determines Your eTA Decision?

Your eTA application decision is based on several key factors. Understanding these factors helps you prepare a strong application and increases your chances of approval.

👤Identity & Eligibility Verification

The system verifies your personal information matches your passport and confirms your country citizenship is on the eligible countries list.

🔐Security & Background Screening

Your application is checked against various security databases including criminal records, immigration violations, and security watchlists.

🏥Health Assessment

Medical questions in the application are reviewed to ensure you don't have communicable diseases or conditions that would make you inadmissible.

📜Immigration History

Previous visa applications, entries, and any immigration violations are reviewed to assess your credibility as a traveler.

🌍Purpose of Travel

Your stated reason for visiting Canada is considered. Tourism, business, and family visits are generally favorable indicators.

Admissibility Assessment

Overall assessment of whether you meet Canada's entry requirements including financial stability and ties to your home country.

Processing Timeline Expectations

The time it takes to process your eTA application varies depending on your individual circumstances. Here's what you should expect based on different scenarios.

ScenarioProcessing TimePercentage of Applicants
Most ApplicationsInstantly to a few minutes80-85% of applications
Additional Information Required24 hours to 2 weeks10-15% of applications
Referred for Manual Review2-6 weeks2-5% of applications
Application RefusalVaries - Reason provided0.5-1% of applications

What Happens During Application Review?

Your application goes through multiple checks during the review process. Understanding what officials are looking for helps you provide accurate information and avoid common mistakes.

Automated System Checks

The system automatically verifies your information for completeness and consistency. It checks your passport details, validates your personal information, and confirms you meet basic eligibility requirements. This automated stage typically takes seconds to minutes.

Security Database Cross-Reference

Your information is cross-referenced against various security and immigration databases. This includes criminal records, immigration violations, interpol watchlists, and security concerns. This thorough check ensures public safety.

Health & Medical Assessment

Medical questions in your application are reviewed to ensure you don't have communicable diseases or medical conditions that would make you inadmissible to Canada. Medical grounds for inadmissibility are rare and specific.

Manual Review (If Needed)

If your application flags any concerns, a border officer manually reviews your file. They assess your credibility, ties to your home country, purpose of travel, and overall admissibility. Manual review adds 1-6 weeks to processing time.

What Happens After Approval?

Once your eTA is approved, there are important things you need to know about how the authorization works and how to use it for your travel.

eTA Remains Valid

  • Valid for 5 years from approval
  • Expires when passport expires (if sooner)
  • Multiple entries allowed during validity
  • No physical document provided

At the Airport

  • Present valid passport at check-in
  • Airline verifies eTA electronically
  • No need to print confirmation
  • Board flight normally if eTA verified

Frequently Asked Questions About the eTA Process

Have questions about how the eTA process works? Here are answers to the most commonly asked questions about the application workflow and what to expect.

Related Resources & Guides

To fully understand the eTA, explore these complementary resources that cover different aspects of Canadian eTA requirements and application.

Check Eligibility

Verify your country's eTA eligibility.

View List

How to Apply

Step-by-step application guide.

Learn More

Requirements

All documents and info needed.

Review

FAQ

Common questions answered.

Read FAQ

Ready to Start Your eTA Application?

Now that you understand the complete eTA process, the next step is to verify your eligibility and prepare your application. Most applicants receive approval within minutes.

Check Your EligibilityStart Application Guide