What Is the Difference Between an eTA and an eVisa?

Travelers who are used to traveling internationally might have heard of eTA and eVisa frequently. What are they? Are they the same? Which one should you apply for? If you have similar questions, then you are in the right place. In this passage, we are going to find out answers.

What Is an eTA?

eTA, referring to electronic Travel Authorization, is an entry document that allows travelers from visa-exempt countries to enter the issuing country by air. It is related to the eTA bearer’s passport electronically. The eTA is applied and processed online. It requires fewer documents, like just a valid passport, which means quicker to obtain. Most applicants can get it within minutes unless the officer requests extra supporting documents. Some countries, such as Australia and UK, have launched an eTA app to complete the application with a mobile device.

List of eTA-eligible Countries

Here is a list of eligible countries that apply to some common countries.

• Canadian eTA

• UK eTA

Since November 15, 2023, nationals of Qatar should apply for an eTA.

Since February 1, 2024, nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates.

• US ESTA (Electronic System Travel Authorization)

• Australia eTA

What Is an eVisa?

The eVisa, referring to an electronic visa, is one type of visa that allows the holder to enter a foreign country and stay within the country for certain periods. An eVisa is applied and processed online so as to simplify the application procedure. In this case, the applicants don’t need to apply for it in person at the consulate or embassy, which helps them to get the permit more quickly and conveniently.

List of Countries Offering e-Visas

Nowadays, more and more countries have started to issue electronic visas.

Differences Between eVisa and eTA

Both eTA and eVisa are travel documents that allow cross-border travelers to quickly gain entry into a foreign country, but they are not the same or interchangeable. In this section, we will discuss how they differ.

Purpose

An eTA is not a visa. Electronic travel authorization aims to conduct quick background checks and pre-screen visitors for the sake of safety, but it does not grant your entry into the country. The electronic visa allows travelers to enter a designated country within a given time. The type of visa is decided by your purpose of visit, such as tour, business, friend or family visit, study, work, etc.

Eligibility

An eTA is designed for travelers from VWP (Visa Waiver Program) countries while an eVisa is required for most countries and territories despite their visa-exempt status. To apply for eTA, individuals usually need to provide personal information and a valid passport. However, to apply for eVisa, people need to offer more information and documents, including an application form, a valid passport, visa photos, biometric information, etc.

Application Process

Although common processes include filling out applications, submitting documents and fulfilling payments online, the application for an eVisa is much more complicated. In some cases, visa applicants need to attend an interview and submit biometrics, such as photos and fingerprints.

Limit and Validity

An eVisa lasts 30-60 days due to the applicant’s nationality and purpose of visit and it is usually a single-entry permit. An eTA is valid for a longer time and allows multiple entries. For example, Canadian eTA can last for 5 years or until your passport expires. US ESTA lasts for 2 years.

Should You Apply for an eVisa or an eTA?

Which one should you get depends on your destination, nationality and purpose of travel. As eTA is much more convenient, it is more favorable, but only when you are a national of a country that joins the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) should you apply for it. If not, you should apply for a regular visa from the embassy, consulate, official website or App.

Moreover, you should consider your purpose of travel. The most important thing to apply for an entry permit is to clearly state why you visit the country. Based on your purpose of travel, you should spend some time learning about the rules and regulations of your destination and decide which one you need. Generally speaking, citizens of VWP countries can use eTA for tour or leisure visits for a short time while visas are necessary for immigration, work and study.

Summary

Traveling to another country will be an exciting experience to explore new things and broaden your horizons. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, it is important to check entry requirements and gain entry permissions whether you are a seasoned or a first-time traveler.

Both eTA and eVisa are electronic travel documents for cross-border travelers, however, they vary a lot in terms of purpose, eligibility, application process, limits and validity. It is important to learn about their differences, thus helping you choose the proper one and avoid being denied entry, departure, or even boarding.