What is a GCKey request and what are the benefits of using one?
A GCKey request is an online service that allows Canada eTA travelers to securely submit additional documents to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This usually is required when Canada eTA applicants need to support the information, they provided on their application form by submitting evidence. Evidence can include financial or travel documents, as well as other documents such as police records or certificates and / or court documents.
How do you make a GCKey request and what information do you need to provide?
After submitting your eTA application, IRCC will contact you should your application require additional processing. You will receive an email inviting you to submit additional documents to support your application by creating a GCKey. The steps below detail how to make a GCKey request:
- To create a GCKey, you will need to visit the following website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account.html
- Provide a valid email address and select a password that meets the sites security requirements.
- Once you have registered for a GCKey, you will need to link your Canada eTA application with your profile. You can do this using your Canada eTA application reference number, or the GCKey reference number provided by IRCC in the invitation email.
In order to ensure the security of your account, it is important to keep your GCKey information confidential and never share it with anyone. If you forget your password, you can reset it using the steps outlined on the GCKey website. By taking these simple precautions, you can help to keep your account secure.
How long does it take for a GCKey request to be processed and how will I receive my key once it’s been approved?
It can take up to three business days for a GCKey request to be processed. You will receive an email once your key has been approved. Please note that you will need to create an account before you can use your GCKey. Once you have created an account, you will be able to log in and access your Canada eTA application case file. There, you can upload the documents requested in the IRCC GCKey invitation email.
What happens if I lose my GCKey or forget the password?
If you lose your GCKey or forget the password associated with it, you will not be able to access government online services that require GCKey login. You will need to create a new GCKey in order to regain access to those services. To do so, you will need to provide some personal information and answer some security questions. Once you have created your new GCKey, you will be able to login to government online services and access your account information.
Are there any restrictions on who can make a GCKey request or use the key once it’s been issued?
According to the Government of Canada website, “A GCKey is a unique credential that allows access to multiple online government programs and services. To obtain a GCKey, you will need to create a user ID and password. This combination will become your electronic signature.” There are no restrictions on who can create a GCKey account or use the key once it has been issued. Travelers that have been contacted by IRCC to submit additional documents for their eTA application can use the platform.
What if I have more questions about GCKeys or need help making a request – where can I go for assistance?
If you have any questions about GCKeys or need help making a request, the best place to start is the GCKey help page. Here, you will find answers to frequently asked questions as well as contact information for the GCKey helpdesk. The helpdesk is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 5:00pm EST and can be reached by phone at 1-800-O-CANADA (1-800-622-6232). You can also contact the GCKey help desk by email at gckey.help@canada.ca. When contacting the help desk, please be sure to have your GCKey ID and password handy so that they can assist you quickly and efficiently.
Conclusion
A GCKey is a Government of Canada login used to access online government services. One of the use cases is for Canada eTA applicants to upload documents to support their application. If you’re needing to submit documents via a GCKey, all you need to do is request one via the GCkey website. Once your request has been approved by the system, you’ll receive an email with instructions on how to activate your key and create a password. If you have any questions about GCKeys or encounter problems while making a request, assistance is available through the “Contact Us” page on the GCKey website.