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Europeans · Canada Travel Authorisation

Europeans need a Canada ETA before flying to Canada

The Canadian Electronic Travel Authorisation is a mandatory entry requirement for eligible European passport holders boarding a flight to Canada. Apply securely online — fast processing with expert review before every submission.

✓  Expert Review
✓  Fast Processing
✓  Individuals & Families

What is the Canada ETA?

The Canada Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) is a mandatory pre-travel entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to or transiting through Canada — including citizens of most European countries. Without a valid eTA, you will not be permitted to board your flight.

The Canada eTA is applied for entirely online and is electronically linked to your passport — there is no stamp, sticker or physical document to carry. Once approved, it is valid for up to five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple entries into Canada.

5 yrs
Validity period
6 mo
Maximum stay per visit
0–72 hrs
Typical processing time

Which Europeans need a Canada ETA?

Citizens of most European countries are eligible for — and required to hold — a Canada eTA when flying to or transiting through Canada. Whether you're heading to Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, or the Rockies, you'll need one before you fly. Eligible nationalities include:

🇫🇷 France
🇩🇪 Germany
🇮🇹 Italy
🇪🇸 Spain
🇳🇱 Netherlands
🇧🇪 Belgium
🇵🇹 Portugal
🇸🇪 Sweden
🇳🇴 Norway
🇩🇰 Denmark
🇦🇹 Austria
🇨🇭 Switzerland

Not sure if your nationality qualifies? Visit ETA Permits and check your eligibility instantly before you apply.

Good to know: The Canada eTA is not the same as a Schengen visa or any other European travel document. It is a separate authorisation required specifically for entry into Canada, and must be obtained before departure regardless of your existing travel documents.

How to apply

Three simple steps to get your Canada eTA sorted before you travel.

1

Complete the form

Enter your personal details, passport information, and travel plans on our secure online form. The process takes around 10 minutes.

2

Expert review

Our team checks every application for accuracy before submission to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada — minimising errors and rejections.

3

Receive your eTA

Your approved Canada eTA arrives by email, linked electronically to your passport. No printing needed — just present your passport at the airport.

Travelling to Canada
with the family?

Every traveller — including children and infants — must have their own individual Canada eTA linked to their own passport. ETA Permits makes it simple to submit applications for your entire family in one go, no matter which European country you are travelling from.

Our team reviews all family applications together before submission to ensure nothing is overlooked. The price you see is the price you pay — no hidden fees at checkout.

Takakkaw Falls in the Canadian Rockies in autumn

Frequently asked questions

Do Europeans need a Canada ETA for a transit stopover?
Yes. If your flight passes through a Canadian airport — even if you are not leaving the terminal — you still need a valid Canada eTA as an eligible European national travelling by air.
How long is the Canada eTA valid for European citizens?
The Canada eTA is valid for five years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries into Canada throughout its validity period.
How long can Europeans stay in Canada per visit?
Each stay is typically limited to six months, though the final decision rests with the Canadian Border Services Agency officer at the point of entry.
Is the Canada eTA different from a Schengen visa?
Yes — they are entirely separate documents. A Schengen visa covers travel within Europe's Schengen Area. The Canada eTA is a distinct authorisation required for entry into Canada and must be applied for separately, even if you hold a valid Schengen visa or EU passport.
Do European children need their own Canada eTA?
Yes. Every traveller — including infants and children — requires their own individual Canada eTA linked to their own passport. ETA Permits makes it easy to apply for all family members at once.
What if my Canada eTA application is refused?
If your eTA is refused you may need to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) instead. ETA Permits reviews all applications before submission to minimise the risk of refusal.

Ready to apply for your Canada eTA?

Fast, simple and expert-reviewed. Get your Canada eTA sorted today and travel with confidence.

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