ETA / eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) — Electronic Travel Authorization

Overview

An Electronic Travel Authorization (variously written ETA or eTA, and called ESTA in the United States) is a pre-arrival screening system that many countries now require of travelers who don't need a full visa for short visits, typically for air (and sometimes sea) arrivals. Applicants submit passport and biographic details online before departure; the system checks them against security and immigration watchlists and issues a digital authorization electronically linked to the traveler's passport — there is no physical stamp or visa sticker. Airlines check ETA/eTA/ESTA status before allowing boarding.

Note: This entry covers *Electronic Travel Authorization* schemes. It is unrelated to the operational term ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival), which refers to a flight's expected arrival time.

United States: ESTA

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), run by US Customs and Border Protection, is required for Visa Waiver Program travelers flying to the US. As of a fee increase effective September 30, 2025 (mandated by the 2025 federal reconciliation law), the ESTA fee is $40, up from $21. An approved ESTA is valid for up to two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, and permits multiple entries for stays of up to 90 days.

Canada: eTA

Canada's electronic travel authorization (eTA) is required for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to Canada (not required for arrivals by land, bus, train, or boat). US citizens and US lawful permanent residents are exempt. It costs CAD $7, is generally approved within minutes, and remains valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Travelers must present the exact passport used in the application.

United Kingdom: ETA

The UK's Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, launched in October 2023 and rolled out globally through 2024–2025, is required for most non-visa-national visitors who don't already hold UK immigration status (British and Irish citizens are exempt). It costs £20, is applied for via the UK ETA app or online, and permits multiple journeys for stays of up to six months at a time, valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

Common Features Across Schemes

Distinction from a Visa

Unlike a visa, an ETA/eTA/ESTA typically involves no consulate visit, biometrics collection, or in-depth application, and is intended for low-risk, short-stay travel. It supplements — rather than replaces — a passport and does not itself authorize entry, only travel to a port of entry for an admissibility decision.