PASSPORTOFFICES
Electronic travel authorization · North America

Canada Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

U.S. citizens do not need a Canadian visa or an eTA — a valid U.S. passport is enough to fly, drive or sail into Canada.

Official application site Check my requirements

Short answer

Who needs the Canada eTA?

Not U.S. citizens. The eTA applies to visa-exempt nationals of other countries flying to Canada. U.S. lawful permanent residents flying to Canada need their green card plus a valid passport.

Key takeaways

  • No government fee. No cost for U.S. citizens, who are exempt from the eTA requirement.
  • Typical processing: No application to file when you hold a U.S. passport.
  • Maximum stay: Usually up to six months, set by the border officer at entry.
  • Passport validity: Valid for the length of your stay.
  • When to apply: No application required.

Forms and official links

Step by step

  1. 1

    Choose your document

    Flying requires a passport book. Driving or arriving by sea, a passport card or another WHTI-compliant document works.

  2. 2

    Check admissibility

    A DUI or other criminal record can make you inadmissible to Canada regardless of citizenship. Resolve it before you travel.

  3. 3

    Cross

    The officer sets your permitted stay — ask for it in writing if you plan a long visit.

What to have ready

  • A valid U.S. passport book for air travel
  • A passport book, passport card, NEXUS card or enhanced driver's license for land and sea crossings
  • Proof of onward travel and funds if asked

Watch out for

  • If you are a U.S. permanent resident rather than a citizen, different rules apply — carry your green card.
  • Old convictions, including a single DUI, are a common cause of refused entry.

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