Further to the blog update posted on this topic on July 14, 2016, which can be found here, the Government of Canada is extending the leniency period for the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) until November 9, 2016, which will provide more time for travellers and airlines to prepare for this change when travelling to Canada by air. As such, starting on November 10, 2016, all visa-exempt foreign nationals (except for Canadian permanent residents or citizens of Canada or the United States) will require an eTA prior to boarding their flight to Canada.

The eTA serves as a registration of travellers. We maintain our recommendation for affected individuals to apply for an eTA as soon as they have the opportunity in order to avoid any last minute online problems or delays.  In addition, despite the prolonged leniency period, all travellers to Canada still have to ensure they meet the other applicable requirements to enter the country. 

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