Canada eTA vs Visitor Visa: Which Do You Need? (2026)

Canada uses two main entry systems: the eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for air travellers from visa-exempt countries, and the Visitor Visa (also called a Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) for travellers whose nationality requires a visa. Understanding which applies to you — and when the eTA may not be enough — is essential for smooth Canadian travel planning.
Canada eTA
9.5
Gov. fee $7
Canada eTA beantragen
VS
UK ETA
9.5
Gov. fee $10
UK ETA beantragen

Hinter diesem Vergleich

Dieser Vergleich basiert auf offiziellen Regierungsdaten für Canada eTA und UK ETA, gesammelt über 6 Monate. Gebühren basieren auf veröffentlichten staatlichen Tarifen vom April 2026.

Merkmalsvergleich

Merkmal Canada eTA UK ETA
Who needs it Visa-exempt nationals (55+ countries) All other nationalities
Government fee CAD$7 (≈ US$5) CAD$100 (≈ US$74)
Processing time Minutes (usually) Weeks
Validity 5 years (or passport expiry) Up to 10 years
Max stay per visit 6 months 6 months
Required for land entry No (only for air) Yes
Biometrics required No Usually yes

Unser Urteil

Unsere Wahl
Canada eTA
The eTA is the right choice for citizens of the 55 visa-exempt countries travelling to Canada by air. At CAD$7, near-instant approval, and 5-year validity, it is one of the best-value travel authorisations in the world.
Canada eTA beantragen
UK ETA
The Visitor Visa is required if your nationality is not on Canada's visa-exempt list. While the process is more involved, IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) has improved online processing significantly — many decisions now arrive within a few weeks.
UK ETA beantragen

Häufig gestellte Fragen

Do I need a Canadian eTA if I arrive by land or sea?+
No. The eTA is only required for air travel to Canada. If you are entering Canada by land (from the USA) or by cruise ship, and your nationality is visa-exempt, you do not need an eTA. You will show your passport at the border.
Is the Canadian eTA the same as an entry permit?+
No. The eTA is a pre-screening requirement that authorises you to board a flight to Canada. The final entry decision is made by the Canadian Border Services Agency officer at the port of entry. An approved eTA does not guarantee entry into Canada.

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