Canada Electronic Travel Authorization
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) · For Japan citizens
Planning a trip to Canada as a Japanese citizen? Great news: you do not need a visa. Japanese passport holders only need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for CAD$7, approved within minutes. This guide covers the simple application process for stays up to 6 months.
Canada eTA for Japanese Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Japan citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Japanese passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada
You will receive your eTA confirmation at this email address
Required to pay the CAD$7 application fee
Complete the eTA application on the official Government of Canada website
Application Process
Japanese citizens can apply for a Canada eTA entirely online in just a few minutes.1 The process is simple:
1. Visit the Official Website
Go to the official Government of Canada eTA application page at canada.ca. Beware of third-party sites that charge excessive fees.1
2. Have Your Passport Ready
You will need to enter your passport details exactly as they appear. Have your Japanese passport in front of you when applying.2
3. Complete the Application Form
Fill in your personal information, passport details, employment information, and answer background questions. The form takes about 5 minutes.2
4. Pay the Fee
Pay CAD$7 using a credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express). Once payment is processed, your application is submitted.1
5. Receive Your eTA
Most applicants receive approval within minutes via email. The eTA is electronically linked to your passport; there is nothing to print.1
Fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Canada eTA | CAD$7 (~US$5) |
The fee is per person, non-refundable, and valid for up to 5 years. Children also require their own eTA at the same cost.1
What You Need to Prove
The eTA application requires you to provide:2
- Valid passport: Japanese passport that is machine-readable
- Basic travel information: When and why you are visiting
- Background disclosure: Questions about health, criminal history, and previous immigration issues
- Contact information: Email address and phone number
Unlike a full visa application, you do not need to prove financial means, accommodation bookings, or ties to Japan for an eTA.
Processing Times
| Application Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Standard eTA | Within minutes |
| Additional Review | Up to 72 hours |
Most Japanese applicants receive instant approval. Some applications may be flagged for additional review, which can take up to 72 hours. In rare cases, you may be asked to provide additional documents or attend an interview.1
After Your eTA is Approved
Once approved:
- Check your email: You will receive a confirmation with your eTA number
- No printing required: The eTA is electronically linked to your passport
- Keep your passport safe: You must travel with the same passport used for the eTA
- Valid for 5 years: Use for multiple trips within the validity period
At the airport, the airline will verify your eTA when you check in. At the Canadian border, show your passport to the immigration officer.
If Your eTA is Refused
eTA refusals for Japanese citizens are rare (approval rate is ~99%), but if it happens:
- Review the reason: Check the explanation provided in your denial email
- Common issue: Criminal record: Even minor offenses like DUI can result in inadmissibility to Canada
- Options available:
- Apply for a Temporary Resident Permit if you have a criminal record
- Apply for Criminal Rehabilitation if 5+ years have passed since completing your sentence
- Apply for a regular visitor visa at a Canadian visa office
- Seek advice: Consider consulting an immigration lawyer for complex situations
The refusal of an eTA does not prevent future applications, but you must address the underlying issue first.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Criminal History
Applicants with criminal convictions, especially for DUI/DWI, may be refused entry to Canada.
How to avoid: Be honest in your application. If you have a criminal record, you may need to apply for a Temporary Resident Permit or Criminal Rehabilitation before traveling.
Incorrect Information
Passport details entered incorrectly or do not match the actual passport.
How to avoid: Double-check all passport information before submitting. Passport number, name, and date of birth must exactly match your passport.
Previous Immigration Issues
Past visa refusals, deportations, or overstays in Canada or other countries.
How to avoid: Disclose any previous issues honestly. Changed circumstances may support a new application.
Health Concerns
Certain health conditions may trigger additional review.
How to avoid: Answer health questions honestly. Most routine health issues do not affect eTA approval.
Incomplete Application
Required fields left blank or application abandoned before payment.
How to avoid: Complete all required fields and ensure payment is processed successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Japanese citizens need a visa to visit Canada?
No, Japanese citizens do not need a visa to visit Canada for tourism or business. However, if flying to Canada, you must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before boarding. If arriving by car or bus from the US, no eTA is required.
What is the Canada eTA fee for Japanese citizens?
The eTA costs CAD$7 (approximately US$5). This is a one-time fee, and the eTA is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
How long does Canada eTA processing take?
Most eTA applications are approved within minutes. Some applications may take up to 72 hours if additional processing is required. Apply at least a few days before travel as a precaution.
How long can I stay in Canada with an eTA?
Japanese citizens can stay in Canada for up to 6 months per visit. The border officer at entry will determine the exact length of stay allowed.
How long is the Canada eTA valid?
The eTA is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can make multiple trips to Canada.
Do I need an eTA if driving from the US to Canada?
No, the eTA is only required for air travel. If you are entering Canada by land or sea, you do not need an eTA, just your valid Japanese passport.
Can I work in Canada with an eTA?
No, the eTA is for tourism, business visits, or transit only. If you want to work in Canada, you need a separate work permit.
What if my eTA application is denied?
If denied, you will receive an explanation letter. You may need to apply for a regular visitor visa at a Canadian visa office. Consider consulting an immigration lawyer if you have a criminal record or previous immigration issues.