Program delivery update – March 15, 2016
This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by IRCC staff. It is posted on the department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders.
Mandatory implementation of the electronic travel authorization program for visa-exempt foreign nationals
Summary
As of March 15, 2016, visa-exempt, non-U.S. foreign nationals are expected to have an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to fly to Canada or transit through Canada by air. The information on the eTA requirement and the procedures for processing eTA applications have been updated in the program delivery instructions and corresponding manual chapters. In addition, a new page on client service has been added.
It should be noted that from March 15, 2016, until fall 2016, travellers who do not have an eTA can board their flight, as long as they have appropriate travel documents, such as a valid passport. During this period, border services officers can let travellers arriving without an eTA into the country, as long as they are not otherwise inadmissible. Find answers to questions about the leniency period.
New instructions
Updated instructions
- Temporary resident permits: Final decisions and issuing the permit
- Temporary resident visa and electronic travel authorization applications: Fees
- Temporary resident: Super visa
- Foreign workers: Eligibility and admissibility – Conditions including validity period
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program and International Mobility Program: Persons who may apply at a port of entry
- Temporary Foreign Workers Program and International Mobility Program: Assessing foreign workers (procedure)
- Study permits: Final decisions
- Study permits: Making an application
- Electronic travel authorization
- Temporary residents: Visitors
- Manually processing electronic travel authorization applications
- Terms and definitions related to temporary residents
- Terms and definitions related to permanent residence