What is an Electronic Travel Authorization?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a digital travel permit that allows foreign visitors to register electronically without the need for a traditional visa. An ETA is electronically linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to two (UK) or five (Canada) years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Electronic travel authorization systems began in 1996 with Australia’s pioneering initiative. Many countries followed, including the U.S. with ESTA in 2008, Canada with eTA in 2015, and New Zealand with NZeTA in 2019. The UK launched its UK ETA in 2023, and the EU implemented ETIAS in 2024 for Schengen area travel.