Do you need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada or transit through its airports?

The Canadian government has issued new clarifications regarding the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system, explaining who the travelers are that need this authorization when traveling by air to Canada or transiting through its airports, as part of its efforts to facilitate travel and ensure compliance with entry requirements.
According to the data published on the official Canadian immigration website, travelers are required to have either a Visitor Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when entering Canada by air, and having one of them is sufficient.

Who needs an eTA to enter Canada?

Canada requires visa-exempt citizens to obtain an eTA when traveling by air to the country or when transiting through one of its airports.

However, this requirement does not apply to travelers arriving by land, sea, train, or bus, as they can enter without a visa and without an eTA.
Citizens of some countries that require a visa may be eligible to obtain an eTA instead of a full visa, provided their entry to Canada is by plane only. If entering through land or sea ports, a Visitor Visa must be obtained.

Categories that do not need an eTA
● Canadian citizens

They cannot use an eTA and must travel with a valid Canadian passport.

As for Canadians holding American citizenship, they can travel with either a Canadian or American passport.

● Permanent residents in Canada (PR)

They do not need an eTA or a visa, but must carry:
Permanent Resident Card (PR Card)
or
Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD)

● American citizens

They are fully exempt from the eTA and must carry a valid American passport.

● Permanent residents in the United States

As of April 26, 2022, Green Card holders are exempt from the eTA and must present:
A valid passport
U.S. residence card

Who needs a visa and not an eTA?

Travelers who require an entry visa—including stateless persons and holders of Alien’s Passports—cannot apply for an eTA and must obtain a Visitor Visa before traveling.

Basic entry requirements to Canada

The Canadian government confirms that having an eTA does not guarantee entry into the country. Upon arrival, the traveler must convince the border officer that they:
Carry a valid passport and travel documents
Are in good health
Have no criminal record or immigration violations
Have strong ties that will return them to their country (work, home, family…)
Intend to leave Canada at the end of their visit
Have sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
Entry may also be refused to some travelers if they are found inadmissible for reasons related to security, health, criminal offenses, or activities related to organized crime.

The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) provides visa-exempt travelers with a simplified and quick way to travel by air to Canada, but other entry requirements remain in effect.

The Canadian government recommends that all travelers verify their status before traveling to avoid any delays or denial at the border