Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Canadian Visa ETA for Swiss Citizens

The Canadian Embassy makes getting your visa quick and easy with the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). The ETA can be approved in minutes if you’re eligible, and you can typically start making travel plans right away. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about applying for an ETA as a Swiss citizen, including how much it costs, the documents you’ll need to submit, and what happens once you get your ETA. Let’s get started!

What is an eTA?

An Electronic Travel Authorization, or eTA, is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. An eTA is electronically linked to your passport and only needs to be obtained once. It will allow you to travel freely between Canada, Europe and any other participating countries that are part of what’s called the Comprehensive Air Transportation Agreement. It’s free and can be obtained online in as little as 10 minutes. Canadian Visa ETA

Who needs an eTA?

Everyone traveling to Canada by air needs an eTA. A Canadian eTA is electronically linked with your passport and will be automatically validated when you board your flight. If you have not received an eTA, please apply early as it may take up to 72 hours from your submission date before it is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an online system that allows you to determine if you are eligible to travel without a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization.

How do I get an eTA?

Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. Instead of obtaining a Canadian visa, applicants are able to apply and pay online for an eTA. Once your application has been approved, you will be issued an electronic travel authorization that is valid up to five years or until your passport expires. The eTA is not specific to any one airline or flight; it applies only to you and remains valid even if you change airlines or buy a new ticket. When booking flights, ensure that you allow plenty of time between flights in case there are delays at immigration or airport security checks. Your passport must be valid at least three months beyond your planned return date.

How long does it take to get an eTA?

It takes 5 minutes or less to apply for an eTA. The only thing you need is your passport and email address. If your application is approved, you will be notified by email within 72 hours. If it’s denied, you’ll receive an explanation of why it was rejected, and you can reapply once any problems have been resolved. Canadian Visa for Swiss Citizens

Can I reapply if my application was rejected?

If your application was rejected, it’s not automatically an indication that you’ll be denied again if you reapply. Immigration Canada will re-examine all previously submitted applications, including those that were denied. If you have no issues in your past—you don’t have any criminal convictions or immigration violations—it’s likely that you’ll pass with flying colors. However, if there are issues with your Canadian visa application, such as paying taxes or providing accurate information on financial declarations, it may hurt your chances of being approved next time around.

What happens if I travel without an eTA?
In Canada, if you are from a visa-exempt country and you arrive at one of our airports or land border crossings by car, bus, train or boat without an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), you will receive an inspection when you arrive. If you receive an inspection after arriving in Canada without an eTA, we may turn away your application for entry. To be eligible to apply for an eTA: Your visit must be temporary;

How do I check the status of my application?
Once you’ve applied, you can check on your application status at any time. In most cases, your application should be processed within 72 hours. If it’s been longer than that and you still haven’t heard from them, give them a call. A Canadian visa doesn’t guarantee entry into Canada—Canadian border officials still have final say on who is allowed entry into Canada. So if something has gone wrong with your application, contacting Canadian immigration directly can help speed up repairs or ensure that you meet all necessary requirements for entry into Canada.