eTA to Canada from Spain: rules, requirements, and application

Applying for an eTA to Canada from Spain is a convenient and fast solution for citizens of the European Union, as well as Ukrainians, Belarusians, Moldovans, Kazakhs, Uzbeks, Georgians, and other foreigners who have obtained citizenship of Iberia. This electronic authorization allows air travel to the “country of the maple leaf” without the need to contact a visa center, which is especially relevant for tourist trips, business visits, and transit through Canadian airports.

What purposes is eTA to Canada intended for?

eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) to Canada is intended for short-term trips to the country without obtaining a visa. In particular, it is well suited for the following purposes:

• tourist trips and visiting relatives;

• business visits (meetings, conferences, negotiations);

• transit through Canadian airports;

• short-term study (up to 6 months).

Important: eTA does not grant the right to work or long-term study. Any paid activity requires a separate permit.

Who can apply for eTA to Canada from Spain?

Citizens of countries included in the visa-free list may apply for eTA to Canada from Spain, provided that entry is carried out by air transport.

Main categories of citizenships eligible for eTA (when traveling by air):

1. European countries:

• Most EU countries (including Andorra, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Poland);

• United Kingdom;

• Switzerland.

  2.Countries of the Americas:

• Anguilla;

• Antigua and Barbuda;

• Bahamas;

• Barbados;

• Bermuda;

• British Virgin Islands;

• Cayman Islands;

• Chile;

• Mexico.

3. Asia-Pacific region:

• Australia;

• Brunei;

• Japan;

• New Zealand;

• Singapore;

• South Korea.

4. Special expanded list (2023–2026):

• Argentina;

• Brazil;

• Costa Rica;

• Morocco;

• Panama;

• Philippines;

• Saint Kitts and Nevis;

• Saint Lucia;

• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines;

• Seychelles;

• Thailand;

• Trinidad and Tobago;

• Uruguay.

It is important to consider that U.S. citizens do not require an eTA. However, holders of permanent resident status of the United States (Green Card) are required to obtain an electronic authorization to enter Canada.

It should also be noted that eTA applies exclusively to air travel: when entering by land or sea, this authorization is not required.

Stages of applying for eTA to Canada through Spain

The process of applying for eTA to Canada through Spain is fully electronic and includes the following stages:

1. verification of citizenship eligibility and purpose of travel;

2. completion of the online application form (passport and biographical data);

3. answering immigration and medical questions;

4. payment of the consular fee;

5. receipt of the decision by email.

In 85–90% of cases, the decision is made automatically within a few hours, however up to 15% of applications are sent for additional review.

What documents are required to apply for eTA to Canada from Spain?

To obtain an eTA to Canada from Spain, you will need:

• a valid biometric passport (validity — at least 6 months);

• an active email address;

• a bank card;

• confirmation of legal stay in Spain (in some cases);

• information about previous trips and visas (if any).

Cost, validity period, and processing of eTA to Canada

eTA to Canada through Spain is issued under the following conditions:

1. Official IRCC fee: 7 CAD.

2. Processing time: from 30 minutes to 72 hours.

3. Validity period: up to 5 years or until passport expiration.

4. Number of entries: unlimited.

5. Maximum stay: up to 3 months per trip.

Addresses of Canadian embassies and visa centers in Spain

eTA is not issued in person at the embassy; the entire process takes place online, but additional contacts may be required for visa-related matters:

Embassy of Canada in Madrid:
Torre Emperador Castellana, Paseo de la Castellana 259D, 28046 Madrid.
Phone: +34 91 382 8400.
Email for consular inquiries: [email protected].

Main reasons for refusal

The main reasons for refusal to obtain an eTA to Canada include:

• errors in passport data;

• previous refusals of Canadian or U.S. visas;

• violations of visa regulations in the past;

• concealment of information in the application;

• matches in security databases.

Why should you contact us?

Visa-agency is not just qualified assistance with filling out the eTA application for Canada. We:

• analyze risks even before submission;

• correctly submit complex cases (refusals, dual citizenship);

• accompany applications from consultation to result;

• work with applicants from the EU and third countries.

Our experience reduces the probability of refusal to a statistical minimum.

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply for an eTA while staying in Spain under temporary protection?

Yes, if the citizenship is included in the eTA list and the passport is valid.

Do I need to print the eTA?

No, the authorization is electronic and linked to the passport.

Can I enter Canada through another country with an eTA issued in Spain?

Yes, the country of application does not restrict the route.

Does an eTA guarantee entry to Canada?

No, the final decision is made by the border officer.