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
Demander Canada eTA
VS
UK ETA
9.5
Gov. fee $10
Demander UK ETA

Derrière cette comparaison

Cette comparaison est basée sur des données gouvernementales officielles pour Canada eTA et UK ETA, complétées par des données d'expérience de candidature collectées sur 6 mois. Les frais sont basés sur les tarifs gouvernementaux publiés en date du April 2026.

Comparaison des fonctionnalités

Fonctionnalité 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

Notre verdict

Notre choix
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.
Demander Canada eTA
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.
Demander UK ETA

Questions fréquemment posées

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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