Is there a Canada eTA for families?

Updated: Jan 09, 2024 | Tags: Family eTA, Canada eTA Application Form

Travelling to Canada as a family can be an exciting experience, but it comes with its own set of logistics, especially regarding entry requirements. One such requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals is the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Understanding whether there is a specific eTA for families and how it works is crucial for a smooth travel experience. This article will delve into the details of the eTA system, focusing on its application for families traveling to Canada.

Is there a Canada eTA for families?
Is there a Canada eTA for families?

Understanding the eTA System

The eTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. It's an electronic system that screens travellers before they arrive in Canada. The process is relatively straightforward and is done entirely online. The eTA is linked electronically to the traveller's passport and is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

Is There a Family eTA?

Unfortunately, there is not an eTA that is designated for families. Unlike some travel authorizations and visas, the Canadian eTA is issued on an individual basis. Each family member, regardless of age, must have their own eTA if they are from a visa-exempt country. This includes infants and children who have their own passport. The process for applying for an eTA is the same for every individual, though the application form is straightforward enough to fill out multiple times for each family member.

Applying for an eTA as a Family

The Application Process

The eTA application is completed online through the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The application requires basic personal information, passport details, and answers to some background questions. The process can be completed relatively quickly, often within a few minutes, and the approval is usually granted within a few hours to a few days.

You can fill out applications for your spouse, partner, or adult children. When you first begin the eTA, the form will ask you if the applicant is filling out the form, or if someone else is filling out the form on behalf of the eTA applicant. Once you answer this question, you must specify your relationship to the applicant. You must also disclose whether or not you are the legal parent or guardian of a minor applicant.

Information Required

For each family member, you will need to answer the application form questions such as their full name, date of birth, place of birth, gender, marital status, address, employment information, and passport details. It's important to have all the passports and relevant information on hand before starting the application process.

Payment and Processing

There is a small fee for each eTA application, which must be paid online. After submission, you can check the status of the application through the IRCC website. In most cases, the eTA approval is sent via email.

What else do I need to know about family applications?

Timing is perhaps the most important aspect of filling out eTA applications for your family. You should submit all eTA applications of your family members on the same day so they will be processed at the same time. It may be a good idea to enlist the help of your spouse or older children to split up the workload and complete applications on a separate computer or mobile device at the same time.

Before you leave for your trip, double-check that all applications have been authorized. In the midst of a family trip, it can be easy to forget details such as travel authorizations, but finding out at the border that some applications were accepted while others were not is a sure way to ruin travel plans. It is a good idea to make a list of family member’s names and check them off as you receive notification that each eTA was authorized. Make sure you apply in advance so you will have time to deal with issues, should they arise.

Other Considerations for Families Applying for eTA

Double-Check Passport Validity

Before applying for the eTA, ensure that each family member’s passport is valid for at least six months beyond the planned date of arrival in Canada. This is a standard requirement for international travel.

Keep Track of Each Application

When applying for multiple family members, it's important to keep track of each application. Record the unique application number provided for each eTA application, as this is needed to check the status or update information.

Understand the eTA Validity

The eTA is valid for five years or until the passport expires. If your children’s passports have a shorter validity period (which is often the case), their eTA will expire along with their passport. Plan accordingly, especially if you travel frequently.

Timing of the Application

Although the eTA is usually processed quickly, it's recommended to apply at least a few weeks before your travel date. This allows time to resolve any issues that might arise during the application process.

Traveling to Canada

Once each family member has their eTA, ensure that the details on the eTA match the information in their passports. The eTA is electronically linked to the passport, so it's not necessary to print anything to show at the airport. However, having a record of the eTA approval can be helpful in case there are any questions during your travel.

In Case of Issues or Delays

If there are any issues with obtaining an eTA for a family member, contact the IRCC immediately. Provide them with the application number and any relevant details to resolve the issue. In rare cases, additional documentation may be required.

Conclusion

While there is no specific eTA for families, the process of applying for an individual eTA for each family member is straightforward and efficient. By understanding the requirements, preparing the necessary information, and applying in a timely manner, families can ensure a smooth start to their Canadian adventure. Traveling to Canada with the proper authorizations in place, including an eTA for each family member, paves the way for a hassle-free and enjoyable experience exploring the vast and diverse landscape of Canada.