What is an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)?

An eTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to Canada. It is electronically linked to your passport and costs $7 CAD. Most eTAs are approved within minutes. You do not need an eTA if you are arriving by land or sea.

Do US citizens need a visa or eTA to visit Canada?

No. US citizens do not need a visa or an eTA to visit Canada by any mode of travel, air, land, or sea. A valid US passport or passport card is sufficient.

How long can I stay in Canada as a visitor?

Visitors are typically allowed to stay up to 6 months. A border services officer determines the exact length of your stay when you arrive. You may be given less time if the officer sees a reason to limit your stay.

Can I be denied entry even if I don't need a visa?

Yes. Having a visa or eTA does not guarantee entry. A CBSA officer at the port of entry makes the final decision. Factors like a criminal record, health issues, financial concerns, or misrepresentation can result in denial.

What if I have a criminal record?

A criminal record, even for minor offences, can affect your ability to enter Canada under IRPA s.36. Pathways include Criminal Rehabilitation, deemed rehabilitation, and Temporary Resident Permits (TRPs). Learn more in our Admissibility Explorer and Criminal Code Explorer.

What documents do I need to enter Canada as a visitor?

Generally, you need a valid travel document (passport), any required visa or eTA, proof of financial means for your stay, a return or onward ticket, and ties to your home country to show you will leave. A CBSA officer may ask for additional documentation.

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How Canadian Visa Requirements Work

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No Visa or eTA

US citizens only. No advance authorization required for any travel mode.

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eTA Required

Most visa-exempt countries need a $7 CAD Electronic Travel Authorization when flying. Approved online in minutes.

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Visa Required

A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) must be obtained before travel. Apply online through IRCC.

Important: A visa or eTA does not guarantee entry. A CBSA border officer makes the final decision at the port of entry. Other factors, including a criminal record, health, or financial situation, can affect admissibility.

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Transiting through Canada

What you need to pass through Canada on the way to another country depends on how you travel, how long you stay, and your nationality.

Transit visa (air, 48 hours or less)

If you are from a visa-required country and connecting between international flights at a Canadian airport, you need a transit visa, unless you already hold a valid visitor visa or are eligible for an eTA. A transit visa is free.

Visitor visa (over 48 hours, or by land/sea)

If you are from a visa-required country and your transit will take more than 48 hours, or you cross by car, bus, train, boat or cruise ship, you need a visitor visa, not a transit visa.

eTA (visa-exempt, by air)

If you are from an eTA-required country, you need an eTA to transit by air. You do not need an eTA to transit by train, bus, boat or cruise ship, but you must carry the right travel documents.

Transit without a visa

US citizens and lawful permanent residents of the US can transit by any mode without a visa. Passport holders of China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, or Taiwan (passport without a personal identification number) may transit without a visa if they meet the conditions of the Transit Without Visa or China Transit programs.

These are general rules. Eligibility for transit-without-visa programs depends on conditions such as airline, airport and holding a valid US visa. Confirm your exact requirement on the official IRCC page.

Official IRCC: Transit through Canada →

Travelling with a criminal record?

Visa requirements are just the first step. A criminal record may affect admissibility under IRPA regardless of visa status. Learn how the law applies.

Explore Your Admissibility: Free →