Canada eTA: who needs one, when you don't, and the CAD 7 fee
Visa-exempt travellers need an eTA to fly to or connect through a Canadian airport. By car, bus, train or boat you don't.
By Simvito · Reviewed
Who needs one
Visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to Canada or transiting through a Canadian airport: for example citizens of the UK, the EU, Australia, Japan, South Korea and Singapore, and Taiwan and Hong Kong SAR passport holders. Mainland Chinese and Indian passports need a visitor visa instead.
Who doesn't
US citizens, who carry proper ID instead, and US lawful permanent residents with valid status, who carry proof of it. Visa-exempt travellers arriving by car, bus, train or boat, including a cruise ship, don't need an eTA either.
Cost and validity
An eTA costs CAD 7 on the Government of Canada site. It's valid for up to five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and it's linked to that passport.
Data when you land
Install a Canada eSIM before you fly. Driving up from the US? Your US plan may already include Canada.