Is visa number the same as eTA number?

Are Visa and eTA Numbers the Same?

No, a visa number is not the same as an eTA number. An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a requirement for certain travelers to enter Canada and is distinct from a visa.

Visa Number

A visa is an official document issued by a country that allows foreign nationals to enter, stay, and work within its borders. Visa numbers are unique, seven-digit numbers stamped directly into the traveler’s physical passport.

eTA Number

An eTA is an electronic travel authorization that allows visa-exempt travelers to visit Canada for tourism, business, or transit purposes for up to six months per entry. eTA numbers are not stamped in a passport but are linked to the traveler’s passport number and valid for up to five years.

How to Check Your Visa or eTA Number

• Visa: Look for a seven-digit number stamped inside your passport, usually on the biographical data page.
• eTA: You can find your eTA number in the approval email you received after submitting your eTA application. You can also retrieve your eTA number by visiting the Government of Canada’s website.

Important Distinction

It is crucial to understand the difference between visa and eTA numbers. Visa numbers indicate the authorization to enter and reside in a country, while eTA numbers only grant permission to visit Canada for short-term purposes. Travelers should consult with the Canadian embassy or consulate in their country of residence to determine if they require a visa or an eTA.

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