Is eTA considered as a visa?

Is eTA Considered a Visa?

An eTA, or electronic travel authorization, is a pre-travel screening system for visa-exempt travelers. It is not a visa, but it does allow visa-exempt individuals to enter a country for a specific purpose, typically for tourism or business.

eTAs are typically required for citizens of countries that have visa-waiver agreements with the issuing country. For example, citizens of the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom can obtain an eTA to enter Canada.

To apply for an eTA, travelers must submit an online application form and pay a processing fee. The application process is typically quick and easy, and most eTAs are approved within a few minutes.

Once an eTA is approved, it is valid for up to five years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first. eTA holders can enter the issuing country multiple times during the validity period of their eTA.

Benefits of eTAs

There are several benefits to obtaining an eTA. First, eTAs are a convenient way to obtain permission to enter a country. Travelers can apply for an eTA online, from anywhere in the world. Second, eTAs are typically processed quickly and easily. Most eTAs are approved within a few minutes. Third, eTAs are valid for up to five years, which means that travelers can use their eTA to enter the issuing country multiple times during the validity period.

Limitations of eTAs

There are also some limitations to eTAs. First, eTAs are not visas, which means that they do not allow travelers to work or study in the issuing country. Second, eTAs are only valid for short-term stays, typically up to 90 days. Third, eTAs may not be available to all travelers, depending on their nationality and the issuing country’s visa policy.

Overall

eTAs are a convenient and efficient way for visa-exempt travelers to obtain permission to enter a country. They are not visas, but they do allow travelers to enter a country for a specific purpose, typically for tourism or business. Travelers should check the visa requirements of the country they plan to visit before applying for an eTA.