Payment processing on a Canada eTA application

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Payment processing on a Canada eTA application

Payment for an eTA application is required before the application is processed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Fortunately, the Canadian government has a wide variety of payment options that accommodate a majority of applicants.

How can I pay the application fee?

An applicant can complete the payment for an eTA application using one of the following payment methods:

  • Debit or credit cards from Visa, MasterCard, American Express or JCB
  • Credits cards from UnionPay
  • Pre-paid cards from Visa, MasterCard or American Express or JCB
  • Online payments from INTERAC

PayPal, bank transfers or other forms of payment are not accepted.

What happens if I experience payment problems?

Applicants experiencing issues when trying to make a payment for their eTA application can troubleshoot the following:

  • Contact their bank or credit card company to check there is a sufficient balance in their accounts and no issues with their providers blocking payment for the eTA application. Alternatively, applicants can try using another payment method.
  • Access the eTA application using a different internet browser, Internet Protocol (IP) Address or web browsing device. For example, an applicant can use their partner’s or employer’s computer to submit an eTA application, assuming the device is secure with stable internet access.
  • Wait for 24 hours and attempting to submit the application again. Often, the Canadian government systems experience downtime for updates or other reasons, thus rendering the eTA application form inoperable. In these cases, applicants should wait for the issues to resolve before reapplying. Unfortunately, in these cases travellers will not be able to board their plane until their eTA is approved.

Can I travel to Canada without paying for an eTA?

Applicants will need an approved eTA to board a plane to travel to Canada. Without making a payment, an eTA application will not be processed. Thus, applicants cannot travel to Canada without paying for their eTA and receiving an approval on their application.

What if I paid too much for my eTA?

Third-party processors are allowed to process eTA applications on behalf of travelers. If you have ordered your eTA through a third-party and feel you have paid too much, you should contact the provider to see if a refund credit can be considered.

Can I get a refund on my eTA?

Applications for a Canada eTA are non-refundable if ordered directly from IRCC. However, a number of third-party providers offer a refund policy of some type that applicants should explore if they have made an application through such providers.