Privacy Impact Assessment Summary: Electronic Travel Authorization

The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)is a new entry requirement that Canada introduced as a means to improve the security of the North American perimeter. Under this initiative, citizens from countries that do not need a visa to enter Canada (excluding United States citizens and other limited exempted groups) need an eTA to fly to or through Canada. However, until September 29, 2016, travellers who do not have an eTA can board their flight as long as they have appropriate travel documents such as a passport.

The objectives of the Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) report were to identify and outline mitigating measures required to address any privacy risks associated with the management of personal information collected from eTA applicants. The PIA was also conducted to ensure that personal information collected under the eTA program is the minimal amount necessary for assessing eligibility and admissibility to Canada.