Entry regulations for Canada
New entry regulations came into effect for Canada as of 15 March 2016. Citizens from visa-free countries need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before flying to or transiting through Canada. Exceptions include U.S. citizens.
Requirements for flying to or transiting through Canada
Most visitors flying to or transiting through Canada need either a valid visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), similar to the USA. In order to fly to or transit through Canada without a visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be a national of a country that is visa-exempt
- You must carry the required travel documents and identification for yourself and any children travelling with you
- You must have a valid Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)
Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)
According to the Canadian entry regulations, travellers need an eTA for their stay in Canada before they can board their flight to a Canadian city. Without this document you will not be permitted entry into the country. You are encouraged to apply for an eTA before you book your flight. The application costs CAD 7. An eTA is valid for up to five years and allows repeated entries into Canada, providing your passport does not expire during this period.
API data collection
Similar to entry into the USA, airlines are obliged to transmit the details of all passengers to the Canadian authorities on the day of departure. The API data collection is done through the Interactive Advance Passenger Information (IAPI) process. The information that is recorded includes your name, birth date and passport number as well as information about your flight. Correct and complete details will spare you any inconveniences at your destination airport and make your entry easier. The easiest thing to do is to transmit your data online in advance at swiss.com. If this is not possible, your data will be collected using your passport at the check-in machine or when you check in at the counter.
Further information and advice about entry regulations for Canada can be found at the links on the right-hand side.
ArriveCAN app
With the ArriveCAN app, you can submit your customs and immigration declaration up to 72 hours before your flight to Canada. By submitting your customs and immigration information in advance, you can use the ArriveCAN express lane on arrival in Canada and save time at immigration and customs.