North America · reviewed 8 August 2026

Canada: eTA and permitted stay.

Many visa-exempt travellers flying to Canada need an eTA, but it does not by itself determine how long a particular visit may last.

In brief

The Canadian government says most visitors can normally stay for up to six months. A border services officer may set a different date.

eTA or visa

The document required depends on nationality, passport and method of travel. Requirements for entry by land or sea can differ from travel by air.

Specific departure date

An officer may stamp a date in your passport or issue a visitor record. That date takes priority over a general assumption.

Remember passport changes

An eTA is electronically linked to the passport used for the application. A new passport may require a new eTA.

Check before travelling

  • Do you need an eTA or visitor visa?
  • Are you arriving by air, land or sea?
  • Was a specific departure date set?
  • Is the eTA linked to your current passport?