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ARTICLE · 15 MARCH 2016

Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) Required March 15, 2016

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As always that determination is left to the examining border service officer at the port of entry.

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In a recent bulletin, we advised readers that starting March 15, 2016, visa-exempt foreign nationals who fly to or transit through Canada are expected to have an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before they travel to Canada by air. However, from March 15, 2016 until the fall of 2016, travellers who do not have an eTA will be allowed to board their flight to Canada as long as they have appropriate travel documents, such as a valid passport. During this period of leniency, border services officers can allow travellers arriving to Canada without an eTA into the country as long as they meet the other requirements to enter Canada.

Despite the period of leniency, visa-exempt foreign nationals are strongly encouraged to apply for and obtain an eTA before boarding a flight bound for Canada. Entry to Canada without an eTA during the period of leniency is at the discretion of the border services officer. It is also worth noting than an eTA does not guarantee entry into

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