Canada Electronic Travel Authorization
eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) · For South Korea citizens
South Korean citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to Canada. The good news: it costs only CAD $7, is approved in minutes, and lets you visit for up to 6 months. Apply online at canada.ca before your flight. The eTA is valid for 5 years.
Canada eTA for South Korean Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For South Korea citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada
Email address to receive your eTA confirmation
Payment method for the CAD $7 application fee
Complete the eTA application on the official Canada.ca website
Application Process
South Korean citizens can apply for the Canada eTA entirely online.1 The process takes just a few minutes.
1. Go to the Official Website
Visit canada.ca/eta to access the official eTA application.3 Avoid third-party websites that charge unnecessary fees.
2. Complete the Application Form
Provide your personal information, passport details, employment status, and answer background questions. Have your passport handy as you’ll need to enter the number exactly as it appears.3
3. Pay the Fee
Pay CAD $7 using a credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, or American Express).1
4. Receive Confirmation
Most applicants receive approval within minutes by email.2 Some applications require additional processing and may take up to 72 hours.
5. Ready to Travel
Your eTA is electronically linked to your passport. No need to print anything. Just bring your passport when you fly to Canada.
Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| eTA Application | CAD $7 |
| Validity | Up to 5 years |
The CAD $7 fee is the only cost. Be wary of third-party websites charging $50-100 or more for the same service.1
What You Need
For the eTA application, prepare:3
- Valid South Korean passport (not expiring soon)
- Email address (for receiving confirmation)
- Credit or debit card (for payment)
- Basic travel information (approximate travel dates)
No passport photos, bank statements, or supporting documents are required for the eTA application.
Processing Times
| Status | Time |
|---|---|
| Most applications | Minutes |
| Applications needing review | Up to 72 hours |
| Recommended apply before | At least 72 hours before flight |
Apply before booking flights to ensure your eTA is approved.2
eTA vs. Visitor Visa
| Feature | eTA | Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
| For | Air travel to Canada | Land/sea entry OR denied eTA |
| Cost | CAD $7 | CAD $100 |
| Processing | Minutes to 72 hours | Several weeks |
| Application | Online only | Online + biometrics |
| Validity | 5 years | Up to 10 years |
South Koreans only need the eTA for flying to Canada. If entering by land from the US or by cruise ship, no eTA is required.2
After Your eTA is Approved
Your eTA is electronically linked to your passport:1
- No printout needed: Airlines and border officers can verify your eTA electronically
- Travel anytime: Use your eTA for multiple trips during its validity period
- Pack your passport: This is all you need to show at the airport
At the Canadian border, present your passport. The officer will verify your eTA and may ask about your travel plans, accommodation, and return journey.
If Your eTA is Denied
If your application is denied:2
- Check the email for the specific reason
- Correct errors and reapply if it was a simple mistake
- Apply for a visitor visa if the eTA route isn’t available to you
- Seek legal advice for complex cases involving criminal or immigration history
Common fixable issues include typos in passport numbers or names. More serious concerns (criminal history, previous deportation) may require a visitor visa application instead.
Special Cases
Transit through Canada: Even if just transiting through a Canadian airport to another destination, you need an eTA if you’re a South Korean citizen flying through Canada.
New passport: If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new eTA. The old eTA linked to your previous passport will no longer work.
Land/sea travel: No eTA required when driving from the US or arriving by cruise. Just bring your valid passport.
Business travel: The eTA covers business visits (meetings, conferences, negotiations). For work requiring a Canadian employer, you’ll need a work permit.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Application Errors
Mistakes in the application such as incorrect passport number, misspelled name, or wrong date of birth.
How to avoid: Double-check all information matches your passport exactly. Copy passport details carefully.
Criminal History
Previous criminal convictions, including DUI/DWI, may result in denial.
How to avoid: If you have a criminal record, you may need to apply for a visitor visa instead or seek criminal rehabilitation.
Previous Immigration Issues
History of overstays, deportations, or visa refusals in Canada or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest in your application. Previous issues don't automatically mean denial, but lying about them will.
Incomplete Application
Missing required information or failing to answer all questions.
How to avoid: Answer every question in the application. Don't leave any fields blank.
Passport Issues
Invalid passport, passport expiring soon, or using a damaged passport.
How to avoid: Ensure your passport is valid and in good condition. The eTA cannot exceed your passport validity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Koreans need a visa for Canada?
No, South Korean citizens don't need a traditional visa. Instead, they need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when flying to Canada. The eTA costs CAD $7 and is valid for 5 years.
How long does the Canada eTA take to process?
Most eTA applications are approved within minutes. However, some may take up to 72 hours if additional processing is required. Apply before booking your flight to be safe.
How long can South Koreans stay in Canada?
With an approved eTA, South Korean citizens can stay in Canada for up to 6 months per visit. The border officer determines your actual allowed stay upon entry.
How long is the Canada eTA valid?
The eTA is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can make multiple trips to Canada during this period.
Do I need an eTA if entering Canada by land or sea?
No, the eTA is only required for air travel. If you're driving from the US or arriving by cruise ship, you don't need an eTA.
What if my eTA application is denied?
If denied, you'll receive an email explaining why. Common reasons include errors in the application or background concerns. You may be able to apply for a visitor visa instead.