Want to make the most of your stay in Canada without having to deal with complicated formalities? Good news: thanks to the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), you can fly to the land of the maple leaf in a simplified way if you come from a visa-exempt country. In this article, we explain everything you need to know about the AVE: what it is, who needs to apply for it, how to obtain it and what the latest news is. Get ready for a hassle-free Canadian adventure!
The AVE in a nutshell: why is it compulsory?
The AVE was introduced to improve security and streamline screening for travellers, and has become an essential step for many tourists travelling to Canada by air. It is an electronic authorisation linked to your passport, generally valid for five years (or until the passport expires). A valid EV greatly simplifies boarding and arrival in Canada, saving you time and avoiding tedious procedures.
Important: Having an EV does not guarantee automatic entry into Canada. Border officials on site have the final say on whether or not you are admitted, depending on whether or not you meet the required criteria (financial capacity, reason for travel, etc.).
Who should apply for an AVE?
The AVE is for travellers from countries exempt from the traditional visa requirement who wish to land on Canadian soil for a tourist stay, a short-term business trip or a family visit. However, if you are travelling by land (from the United States, for example) or sea, you are not subject to this formality.
Latest updates
Recently, the AVE Canada updates have focused on improving controls and the speed with which applications are processed. Most applications now receive a response within a very short time (sometimes just a few minutes), provided there are no anomalies in your file. However, new, stricter checks may lengthen the process if your situation requires in-depth examination.
How to obtain an EVA: the essential steps
- Access a reliable online form
Choose an approved provider, such as canada.e-visa.org/en, to complete your application in your language and receive assistance. - Fill in the required information
You will need to provide your contact details, passport number and answer a few security-related questions (travel history, state of health, etc.). - Pay the fees
Costs vary depending on the platform used. They are generally affordable and payable online (credit card). - Wait for confirmation
If everything is in order, you will receive an e-mail confirming your AVE. In most cases, this happens very quickly. However, it's best to plan ahead in case of additional checks.
Tip: Don't wait until the last minute. Even if the procedure is generally quick, a file requiring in-depth examination could delay your departure.
And after the AVE has been validated?
Once your AVE has been approved, it is directly linked to your passport. When you board your flight to Canada, the airline checks your authorisation against your passport number. When you arrive, a border officer may ask you questions about the reason for your visit and how long it will last. Answer truthfully and consistently so that you can pass through the checkpoint unhindered.
How long can you stay?
In general, you will be granted a maximum tourist stay of six months. You will be able to enter and leave Canada several times during the period of validity of your AVE, as long as you comply with the entry conditions (duration, reason for travel, etc.). For longer periods (work, study, etc.), specific visas or permits are required.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Neglecting to check the validity of your passport
The AVE becomes invalid as soon as your passport expires. Check the validity date before sending your application. - Underestimate delays
Even if most applications are processed quickly, it's best to leave a safety margin before your departure date. - **The AVE does not replace a visa. If you are not eligible for visa exemption, you will have to follow another procedure.
- **Be sure to use an approved service, such as canada.e-visa.org/en, to avoid any risk of scamming or abusive surcharges.
Take off with peace of mind
In short, the AVE is a quick and simple formality for most travellers wishing to discover Canada without constraints. Once you have this authorisation, all you have to do is organise the itinerary of your dreams: explore the big cosmopolitan cities, immerse yourself in the local culture or set off to discover the sumptuous natural landscapes.
To find out more about the procedure or the latest updates, visit canada.e-visa.org/en. You'll find a detailed guide, personalised support and practical advice to help you prepare for your next trip.
Are you ready to set foot on Canadian soil? With your AVE in hand, all you have to do is pack your bags and enjoy one of the largest and most magnificent countries in the world!