Study in Canada

Entry Requirements for Canada

Most foreign nationals who wish to visit Canada need a valid visitor visa to enter the country. However, certain nationals are exempt from this requirement. In 2016, Canada introduced the electronic travel authorization (eTA) as a new entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to or transiting through Canada by air.

Who Needs an eTA

Most visa-exempt foreign nationals need an eTA if they are flying to or transiting through Canada. A significant exception to this requirement includes U.S. citizens, who can enter Canada with a valid U.S. passport, and U.S. permanent residents (Green Card holders), who can travel to Canada with a valid passport and Green Card.

eTA Exemptions

There are specific instances where travelers do not need an eTA. These include:

• French citizens residing in Saint Pierre and Miquelon and flying directly to Canada from St. Pierre and Miquelon.
• Diplomats accredited by the Government of Canada.
• Foreign nationals transiting through a Canadian airport under the Transit Without Visa or China Transit programs.

Extending Visitor Status

An eTA permits foreign nationals to enter and stay in Canada for up to six months at a time. Once this period ends, their legal status expires, and they must leave Canada. If they wish to stay longer than six months, they must apply for an extension while their temporary resident status is still valid.

To extend their stay, they should apply at least 30 days before their status expires. If their current status expires while the extension application is being processed, they may remain in Canada under implied status, meaning they can stay while waiting for a decision. Additionally, they can apply for permanent resident status if eligible under one of Canada’s immigration programs.

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Find out if you are eligible for an eTA or need assistance with the application process.

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