Nothing checked off yet

First visit? Here's how the map works.

Steps run in order. A dashed step is blocked: something before it has to be finished first.

Check a step off when it's done. Whatever it was blocking unlocks by itself.

Some steps are IRCC's to make, not yours. Those show as waiting and can't be checked off.

Start with step 1: Find out what you actually need

Visitors and eTATravelStep 4 of 5

BlockedAt the port of entry · RequiredYou are here

4. Arrive: the border officer decides

At the port of entry a border services officer checks your passport and documents and decides whether you may come in, and for how long.

Waiting on: Decision

Open this step

The rest of the pathway, folded up

This view fits the whole pathway on one screen: the step you're on is enlarged, its neighbours are shown small, and everything further out is folded into a summary bar you can open. The idea is borrowed from degree-of-interest trees (Card and Nation, 2002).

Times and fees on this page are rough and change without notice. Check canada.ca before you pay for anything or make a plan around a date.

Step 4 of 5 · RequiredClose

Arrive: the border officer decides

BlockedRequired

The authority on this stepFind out about the electronic travel authorizationcanada.ca · Government of Canada

IRCC is the only authority here. Our summary is here to help you find your way. If anything below differs from the official page, the official page is right. Requirements, fees and processing times change without notice.

Our plain-language summaryLast reviewed 29 July 2026

At the port of entry a border services officer checks your passport and documents and decides whether you may come in, and for how long. An eTA or a visa gets you to that conversation; it does not settle it.

Why it's required: This is the step people are most surprised by. Having the document in hand is not the same as being admitted, and the officer can allow less time than you planned for.

Who decidesThe officerEntry is decided at the border, not by the approval you already have.

Be ready to showYour plansWhere you're staying, how long, and that you can support yourself.

Documents you'll need

The passport linked to your eTA or carrying your visa
Proof of where you're staying and your return travel
Proof you can support yourself during the visit

Before this step

BlockedDecision

Finishing this unlocks: Know the date you have to leave by