Is there a fast track eTA application?

Updated: Mar 10, 2020 | Tags: Fast Track eTA, Canada eTA Application Form, Canada Entry Requirements, requ

Introduction

Are you planning to apply for a Canadian eTA? At first glance, this travel authorization document can seem overwhelming. While it’s not as detailed as a visa application, an eTA application does ask many questions about your identity and background. If you need your Canadian eTA quickly, you may be wondering if there is a way to expedite your eTA application. If so, you are in the right place. Read on to learn the fastest way to get your eTA.

Is there a fast track eTA application?

Is there a fast-track eTA?

The short answer to this question is “no.” There is no fast-track eTA application option. However, although the eTA processing website will not expedite your application, you can do quite a lot to speed up the process of obtaining a decision on your eTA.

How long does it usually take to apply for an eTA?

Typically, eTA applications are quick, so the need for expedited eTA applications is not warranted. You could have your eTA approved within an hour of submitting the application. However, this is not always the case. If you want to do your part to speed up your Canadian eTA application process, then you must obtain the proper documents and have them ready before you begin your application.

Ways you can speed up the eTA application process

An eTA requires a valid passport, any previous Canadian travel documents you have, and your plane tickets, if you already have them. Before you begin your eTA application, make sure your passport is up to date. An expired or nearly-expired passport can slow down your application considerably, since you will have to wait to apply until you get your new passport. Make sure you gather all the documents you need before you log into the Canadian immigration website to apply for your eTA. You must fill out the application in one sitting, and you don’t want to have to start all over if it takes a few days to locate the necessary paperwork.

Ways you cannot speed up your eTA application process

Unfortunately, there are some factors that may be out of your control. If your eTA needs to be reviewed, then it can take months rather than minutes to process. This may happen if you have a criminal record, if you have had contact with certain diseases, or if there is something else about your application that Canadian immigration decides they must review. If this happens, it may take as long to get your eTA as it would to get a regular visa.

Conclusion

The best way to ensure your Canadian eTA application is processed in a timely manner is to begin early and be prepared to fill out your form with diligence to avoid mistakes that could affect eTA approval. Thus, take time to check your travel documents, and be sure to apply as early as possible. This way, you won’t have to worry even if your application takes many weeks to process due to unforeseen circumstances such as a manual review of your eTA application by Canadian immigration personnel.