Canada ETA for Taiwan Citizens

Canada has always been a top-tier destination for Taiwanese travelers, whether it’s for the breathtaking views of the Rockies, the vibrant culture of Toronto, or visiting family and friends. But before you pack your bags and head to the airport, there is one crucial document you need to secure: the Canada eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization).

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Canada eTA for Taiwan citizens—from document requirements to the fastest way to get approved.

Do Taiwan Citizens Need a Visa for Canada?

The short answer is: No, but you do need an eTA. Since 2010, Taiwan citizens with an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (which includes a personal identification number) have been exempt from a traditional visitor visa. However, if you are arriving in Canada by air, the Canadian government requires you to have a valid eTA linked to your passport before you board your flight.

What is the eTA Type and How Long Can I Stay?

When you apply for a Canada eTA through a professional service like eta-canada.info, you are essentially getting a multi-purpose travel authorization. Here are the specifics:

• eVisa Type: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
• Entry Type: Multiple Entry (You can enter and leave Canada as many times as you like within the validity period).
• Duration of Stay: Up to 180 Days (6 months) per visit.
• Validity: Up to 5 years (or until your passport expires, whichever comes first).

What Documents Are Required for Taiwanese Applicants?

One of the best things about the eTA process for Taiwan citizens is how simple it is. Unlike traditional visas that require bank statements and invitation letters, the Canada ETA requirements:

• Passport Bio Page: A clear scan or photo of your passport’s information page.
• Passport Type: It must be an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan and must include your National ID number.
• Email Address: A valid address to receive your digital approval.

How Fast Can I Get My Canada eTA Approved?

Depending on how quickly you need to travel, you can choose from different processing tiers. If you’ve left your application to the last minute, don’t panic—there are “Rush” options available.

• Normal Processing: 1–6 Working Days (Best for those planning ahead).
• Rush Processing: 1–3 Working Days (Ideal for upcoming trips).
• Super Rush Processing: Within 24 Hours (The “emergency” option for immediate travel).

Can I Work Remotely in Canada on a Tourist eTA?

Many digital nomads ask if they can work for their home company while visiting. In Canada, you can generally perform remote work on a visitor status (eTA) as long as your employer is located outside of Canada and you are not entering the Canadian labor market. This means you can keep your laptop open and stay productive while enjoying your 180-day stay!

Are There Mandatory Vaccines for Entering Canada?

Currently, there are no mandatory COVID-19 vaccination requirements for entry into Canada. However, it is always recommended to be up-to-date on routine immunizations like Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) and Hepatitis A/B. Always check for the latest public health notices before your departure.

Which Canadian Airports Feature Biometric Boarding?

Major hubs like Toronto Pearson (YYZ) and Vancouver International (YVR) are increasingly using biometric technology and eGates to speed up customs. Having a valid eTA allows you to use these automated kiosks, significantly reducing your wait time after landing.

Should I Complete a Digital Arrival Card Before Flying?

While not always mandatory, using the ArriveCAN app to submit your customs and immigration declaration up to 72 hours before arrival is highly recommended. It acts as your digital arrival card, allowing you to bypass long queues and head straight to the eGates or express lanes at participating airports.

Do Taiwan Citizens Need an Exit Permit to Leave?

If you are a male citizen of conscription age (typically 18–36), you may need to apply for an Overseas Travel Permit from the National Immigration Agency before leaving Taiwan. Most other travelers do not require a specific “exit permit” for tourism, but it’s vital to check your specific status with Taiwan authorities.

Why Does an Agent Charge a Service Fee?

Applying through eta-canada.info involves more than just a data entry. The service fee covers a manual review of your documents by experts to ensure 100% accuracy, 24/7 customer support, and priority handling for rush applications. This significantly reduces the risk of rejection due to small typos or incorrect passport data.

Should I Get an eSIM for My Trip to Canada?

Physical SIM cards can be a hassle to swap. We recommend getting a Canada eSIM before you fly. It allows you to have data connectivity the moment you touch down, which is essential for navigating to your hotel or checking your eTA approval email if needed.

How Can I Avoid Common eTA Application Mistakes?

The most frequent mistakes include:

• Passport Typos: Mixing up the letter “O” with the number “0”.
• Wrong Passport Number: Entering the ID number instead of the passport number.
• Expired Passport: Your eTA is only as valid as the passport used to apply.
• Applying with a Diplomatic Passport: If you are using a Diplomatic or Official passport, the rules differ (see below).

What are the Rules for Diplomatic Passport Holders?

If you hold a Diplomatic or Official Taiwan passport, you are generally exempt from the eTA requirement if you are coming to Canada for an official posting or as an accredited diplomat. However, for personal travel (tourism), you should consult with the Canadian Trade Office in Taipei, as you may still need a traditional visa or specific authorization.

What Should I Do After My eTA is Approved?

Once approved, the eTA is electronically linked to the passport you used to apply. You don’t need to print anything out (though keeping a digital copy on your phone is always a good idea). When you check in for your flight to Canada, the airline staff will scan your passport and see that you have a valid authorization.

What Are the Common Reasons for eTA Delays or Rejections?

While the approval rate is high (around 98%), some applications face hurdles. Common issues include:

• Entering the wrong passport number.
• Applying with a passport that doesn’t have a National ID number.
• Previous immigration issues in Canada or other countries.
• Using an expired or nearly expired passport.

Is the eTA Required if I Enter Canada by Land or Sea?

Interestingly, the eTA is specifically for air travel. If you are a Taiwan citizen driving across the border from the United States or arriving via a cruise ship, you generally do not need an eTA. You will simply need your valid Taiwan passport with the ID number included.

What is the Refund and Cancellation Policy?

When applying for an eTA, it’s important to understand that the process begins the moment you submit your data.

• Government Fees: These are non-refundable as the system checks begin immediately.
• Service Fees: Once our team begins the manual review and support work, this fee becomes non-refundable.
• Rush Add-ons: Priority handling starts instantly, meaning these costs are incurred right away.
• Summary: Refunds are rare because the “work” of securing your travel happens in real-time.

FAQs

Q: Do my children need an eTA? Yes, every traveler, including infants and children, needs their own eTA linked to their own passport. Q: Can I work in Canada with an eTA? No. The eTA is for tourism, business meetings, or transit. To work or study long-term, you would need a specific permit. Q: What happens if I get a new passport? Your eTA is linked to your specific passport number. If you get a new passport, your old eTA becomes invalid, and you must apply for a new one.