Canada Tourist Visa vs. eTA: Which Travel Authorization Do You Need?

Applying for a Canada tourist visa has become super easy ever since their e-visa program was launched in 2015. This program not only allowed tourists to apply for authentic visas online but also introduced another travel permit: eTA. So let’s find out the difference between the two and how to choose one that suits you. 

Home to a diverse and vibrant culture, Canada is like a kaleidoscope that provides something for everybody. Its magnificent and peaceful beauty spans over 5,600 miles across North America. Also known as the Great White North, this is a nation popular not only for its sweeping landscapes but also the endless exotic wilderness. 

Thus, if traveling to the second-largest nation in the world has been a dream, worry no more. Over the years Canada has launched several visa programs that allow people to travel easily with several options at hand. These options primarily are eVisas and eTAs. 

Both of these authentic travel documents will allow you to have a proper hassle-free trip. However, they not only have a different purpose but also a different process. Therefore, the purpose of this guide is to look at what separates a Canada tourist visa from an eTA and how each will help you. Knowing this distinction will help you choose the one that fits you the best as well as avoid any delays or entry issues.

What is a Canada Tourist Visa?

Like every other travel document permit, a Canadian visa is an official permit that allows you to travel through the magnificent land and explore their culture as a foreign citizen. With a Canadian visa, you can live and travel across Canada easily and with peace of mind.

When you apply for an eVisa via the website the first step is to fill out the  Canadian visa application. It is then reviewed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to verify your identity. Most applications are reviewed and verified within 24 hours. However, at times it can be 72 hours before you receive confirmation. The visa will be sent to your email. 

Although you do not need any physical stamps on your passport, it is best to keep a hard copy proof of your e-visa document. 

Who Needs a Tourist Visa for Canada?

Primarily, anyone wishing to enter Canada requires a visa. This is a document that allows you to tour the land without any hassles. However, Canada has a list of countries that are eligible for a Canadian eVisa. Therefore, before applying for any travel permit online, thoroughly go over the list. This will help you plan better.

In case you are not eligible for a Canada tourist visa online, you would have to apply for a visa through your nearest Canadian embassy or consulate. 

What is a Canada eTA?

Canada launched a Visa Waiver program around 2015. This program was meant for several visa-exempt countries. Citizens from these nations could simply visit Canada without having to go through lengthy visa procedures. This program was initiated as a joint agreement between Canada and the USA to have better-protected borders. 

The eTA application online is simple and only has a couple of steps. All you have to do is submit your personal information, passport details, and contact information. After having submitted everything you may have to answer certain questions to complete the process. 

An eTA allows multiple entries for business, transit, or tourism purposes. However, you can only stay for six months at a time but it remains valid for over 5 years. 

An eTA applies to all of the visa-exempted nations.

Key Differences Between a Canada Tourist Visa and eTA

Although both a tourist visa and an eTA are legit travel permits that will allow you to travel and explore this beautiful land, they have different purposes. Here are some of the key points that properly highlight the differences between these two documents. 

Application Process and Duration

The application process for an eTA does not differ much from an online Canada tourist visa. Both are similar processes where all you have to do is visit the site and look for the relevant application form. You will then have to fill out these application forms with the necessary information and supporting documents and pay the processing fee. 

Its major difference, however, lies in its processing time. While you can easily get your approved eTAs in 24 hours or a maximum of 72 hours in case of any additional documents, an e-visa generally takes over 3-4 days to arrive. 

Validity Period and Entry Rules

Another key point of difference in both these travel permits is that they offer different validities and extension allowances. 

A Canadian tourist visa allows you to be in the country for a maximum of 6 months (both for regular and eVisas). These are single-entry visas and will not allow you to enter the nation several times. Although in the case of an e-visa, you can extend your stay make sure to do so while you still have time on your current visa, as an unauthorized extension may lead to hefty fines and charges.

On the other hand, an eTA remains valid for over 5 years, amid which you can enter as many times as you want. It also lets you stay there for six months each time. 

How to Decide Between a Tourist Visa and an eTA

Choosing between the two of these travel permits can often seem quite confusing, especially for those new to the process. 

The only way to know your best option is to have a thorough understanding of the purpose of your visit. For instance, if your main purpose of visiting Canada is to explore the nation and look at the various sites or visit friends and family, your best option is to go for a Canada tourist visa. Opt for an e-visa for short trips.

However, an eTA is best if you are planning a longer visit. Since eTAs remain valid for five years and allow multiple entries, it is perfect if your purpose of visit requires you to stay for a while. 

To choose between the two, check your eligibility first. Also set your budget and check the processing time for both these options. Once you know the entire process, you can apply for the visa that best suits your purpose. 

Frequently Asked Questions

While navigating the various visa options, here are some of the popular questions that often bother people. These include: 

Can I Apply for Both an eTA and a Tourist Visa?

No, you cannot apply for both a Canada tourist visa and an eTA at the same time. Both are a different type of travel document that has separate benefits and purposes. Thus it is best to know the whole process thoroughly before picking an option that fits you perfectly.

What to Do if I Applied for the Wrong Authorization?

The process of submitting your applications online, be it for an eTA or an e-visa is fairly simple. All you have to do is visit the site, fill out your forms, submit the necessary documents, and pay the processing fee. However, in case you make a mistake and apply for the wrong authorization, your application may just be denied. In this case, start afresh. 

To Enjoy Across The Canadian Heaven Apply Now!

Choose your perfect travel document by navigating the site and analyzing the two distinctive options. The site provides ample scope for assessing your choices, so make sure you pick one that aligns with your goals, be it short-term or long-term.