How do I check the status of my eTA application on the government portal?

You can check the status of your eTA application directly on the official government website.

What You Need to Know

To look up your eTA, you’ll need your government reference number, and passport details used for your application. If you applied through sherpa°, you’ll only receive your government reference number once your eTA has been approved and delivered to you. This means you will not be able to track your application status on the government portal while it is still processing.

How to Check Your Status

1. Visit the official Government of Canada eTA status page.

2. In the first dropdown, select "I received and eTA. I want to check my file." 

3. In the second drop down, select "eTA Number." 

4. In the "eTA Number" text field enter your government reference number, sometimes called your eTA reference number. This number begins with the letter J followed by 9 digits (for example: J123456789).

5. Enter your passport details in the remaining fields.

6. Click "Check application status" to load your eTA's status.

Our Recommendation

If you applied with sherpa°, the fastest way to get updates is by checking your sherpa° My Applications page. We’ll notify you by email as soon as your eTA is approved or if any action is required.

A Quick Tip

Keep your government reference number handy in case your airline or an immigration officer asks for it.