Travellers often confuse eVisas and eTAs, but they serve different purposes. While both are electronic travel authorizations, understanding the difference ensures smooth entry into your destination country.
What is an eVisa?
An eVisa (electronic visa) is a digital document that permits you to enter a country for specific reasons such as tourism, business, or medical treatment. You apply online and typically receive the visa via email. It’s linked to your passport.
Common eVisa types include:
- Tourist eVisa
- Business eVisa
- Medical eVisa
- Student eVisa
What is an eTA?
An eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is not a visa. It’s a pre-approval system for visa-exempt travellers. Required before flying to certain countries, it is linked electronically to your passport through the country's immigration database.
Examples of countries that use eTAs:
- Canada
- USA
- United Kingdom
Key Differences Between an eVisa and an eTA
Application Process
- eVisa: Requires documents such as a photo of your passport, travel itinerary, and sometimes financial proof.
- eTA: The Process can range from simple (just passport info) to more complex, requiring a passport-style headshot and additional travel details depending on the country.
Eligibility
- eVisa: For nationals who require a visa to enter the country.
- eTA: For nationals of visa-exempt countries, but pre-clearance is still required.
Processing Time
- eVisa: Usually processed in 24–72 hours, sometimes longer.
- eTA: Most are approved in minutes, but some take up to 72 hours.
Validity and Duration
- eVisa: Often valid for 30 to 90 days.
- eTA: Validity ranges from 3 months (e.g., Kenya) to 5 years (e.g., Canada). Each visit may be limited to 30–180 days.
Number of Entries
- eVisa: May be single, double, or multiple-entry.
- eTA: Usually multiple entries during the validity period.
Cost
- eVisa: Typically higher government fees.
- eTA: Generally cheaper.
Linked to Passport
Both are electronically linked to your passport; no physical stickers are involved.
Documents Required
- eVisa: Requires photo, passport scan, and sometimes proof of travel or accommodation.
- eTA: Traditionally minimal, but increasingly may request a headshot or additional data.
Denial Risk
- eVisa: Stricter criteria, so documentation must be accurate.
- eTA: Easier approval, but can still be denied based on security checks or errors.
Real Examples
- UK citizen visiting Canada → Needs an eTA
- Canadian citizen visiting India → Needs an eVisa
- UK citizen flying to Kenya → Needs an eTA
- American travelling to Egypt → Needs an eVisa
FAQs
Is an eTA a visa?
No. It’s a pre-travel clearance for visa-exempt travellers.
Can I apply for both?
You only need one, depending on your nationality and destination.
Is an eTA ever denied?
Yes, especially for incorrect information or security concerns.
Is a visa stronger than an eTA?
They serve different purposes. A visa may allow longer or specialized visits.
Can children apply?
Yes. Each traveller, regardless of age, usually needs a separate authorization.
Can I reapply if I’m denied?
Yes. After correcting any issues, you can reapply.
Final Tip
Use the sherpa°'s travel requirements tool to see the requirements for your destination country before applying. Requirements change frequently, and using sherpa° ensures faster approval and a stress-free journey.
