Canada's eTA,
before you fly
Use the official form, match your passport number, then choose your winter suite.
This guide is for travelers flying to Canada this winter. If you are a visa-exempt foreign national, the Government of Canada says you need an eTA to fly to or transit through a Canadian airport. It costs CAN$7, is valid for up to five years or until your passport expires, and most applications are approved within minutes. U.S. citizens are exempt. Below: the rules that matter, then five-star hotels in Toronto and Vancouver with live rates.
How much is Canada's eTA, and where do I apply?
The Government of Canada says an eTA costs CAN$7, and you apply and pay for one person at a time. The fee is non-refundable. Its advice is to apply only on the official Government of Canada website, linked in our sources below. You will need a valid passport, an email address and a payment card.
Who needs an eTA, and who doesn't?
- Need one: visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport.
- Don't need one: travelers arriving by car, bus, train or boat, including a cruise ship; U.S. citizens, who must carry proper identification such as a valid U.S. passport; and U.S. lawful permanent residents with valid status, who must carry proof of status and a valid passport.
- New in 2026: since May 26, 2026, citizens of Indonesia and Malaysia who meet certain requirements may be eligible for an eTA instead of a visitor visa when flying to Canada.
How long is it valid?
An eTA is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. You can travel to Canada as often as you want for short stays, normally up to six months at a time. If you get a new passport, you need a new eTA.
When should I apply?
The government says most applicants are approved by email within minutes, but some requests take several days if supporting documents are needed. If so, you will be emailed instructions within 72 hours. It recommends getting an eTA before you book your flight.
What's the most common mistake?
A wrong passport number. The government warns that if you enter the wrong number, you will have problems flying to Canada. Use the number at the top of the passport information page, and check that the number in your approval email matches. If it doesn't, you need to apply for a new eTA.
Toronto or Vancouver for a luxury stay?
Toronto has the deeper bench of five-star hotels, with Yorkville the natural base for shopping and dining, and winter is cold, so plan around indoor days. Vancouver is milder and wetter, with mountains and water close to the city. Whichever you choose, the same eTA covers flights into either city.
Where this information comes from
We checked these official pages on November 9, 2026. Rules can change, so please confirm before you travel:
- Government of Canada, IRCC — Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
- Government of Canada, IRCC — Apply for an eTA (official form)
- Government of Canada, IRCC — Facts about the eTA
🏨 Five-star hotels in Toronto & Vancouver (live Agoda rates) (13)
Five-star only, ranked by nightly price. Live Agoda rates for 2 adults, taxes and fees included, checked 2026-11-10 — confirm the live rate on Agoda.
🍁 Where to stay
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❓ Frequently asked questions
How much does a Canada eTA cost?
CAN$7, according to the Government of Canada. You apply and pay for one person at a time.
How long is a Canada eTA valid?
Up to five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Do U.S. citizens need an eTA?
No. U.S. citizens are exempt and must carry proper identification such as a valid U.S. passport.
Do I need an eTA if I arrive by land?
Visa-exempt travelers do not need an eTA when arriving by car, bus, train or boat, including a cruise ship.
How fast is an eTA approved?
Most applicants are approved by email within minutes, but some requests take several days if supporting documents are needed.
Some links are Agoda affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Hotel rates were checked on Agoda and change often. eTA details are summarized from the Government of Canada's official pages as of November 9, 2026 — please confirm before you travel.