Fast Canada ETA approval for Mexican citizens: Expert tips

Mexican citizens no longer need a traditional visa to visit Canada for short-term stays. Instead, they can now apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) — a fast and convenient entry requirement for visa-exempt travelers.

This change makes visiting Canada from Mexico easier than ever for tourism, business, or transit.

What is a Canada ETA?

The Canada ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a digital entry permit linked to your passport. It allows you to fly to Canada without a visa and is valid for up to five years or until your passport expires — whichever comes first.

You can enter Canada multiple times during its validity, staying up to six months per visit.

Who needs an ETA and what do I need to apply?

Mexican citizens flying to Canada must apply for an ETA before boarding their flight. It’s a straightforward process and requires only a few essentials:

• A valid Mexican passport
• A working email address
• A credit or debit card (or PayPal) to pay the application fee

There’s no paperwork involved, and you’ll receive your ETA via email.

Canada ETA processing times and fees for Mexican travelers

iVisa offers three service tiers so you can choose the option that best fits your travel timeline.

Check the fastest current processing speed below:

Note: Prices and processing times may vary.

How to apply for the Canada ETA from Mexico

The application process is simple and takes around 10–15 minutes:

1. Enter your personal and passport details on our website or mobile app.
2. Choose your desired processing time.
3. Review your information and submit the payment.
4. Upload any required documents and receive your approved ETA by email.

👉 Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert, adds:

"Since the Canada ETA is electronically linked to your passport, you don’t need to print anything or carry a physical document when traveling."

Frequently asked questions about the Canada ETA

Can I apply for family members?

Yes, you can easily apply on behalf of your family through our platform or app.

Just make sure to have each person’s passport and personal details ready. Each traveler, including minors, must have their own ETA.

Do children need an ETA?

Yes. All travelers — regardless of age — must have an individual ETA to board their flight to Canada. Parents or guardians can apply on their child’s behalf.

Do I need to apply every time I travel?

No. Your ETA remains valid for five years or until your passport expires. During that time, you can travel to Canada as often as you like, as long as each visit does not exceed six months.

What does the ETA look like?

Here’s a sample of what a Canadian ETA confirmation email may look like:

What is the Canada ArriveCAN and do I need one?

The Canada CAN form (also known as the CBSA declaration) is a mandatory digital travel form that must be completed by travelers entering Canada.

Advantages of using Canada's CBSA Advance Declaration (ArriveCAN)

✅ Expedited border processing

Using the advance customs declaration can qualify you for express lanes at select Canadian airports (e.g., Toronto Pearson and Vancouver). This speeds up your entry and reduces wait times at customs.

✅ Pre-arrival declaration convenience

You can digitally submit your customs and immigration declaration up to 72 hours before arriving in Canada. This means less paperwork on arrival and a smoother experience.

✅ Fewer questions at the border

Submitting ArriveCAN in advance often leads to fewer entry questions, as CBSA officers already have your details and travel purpose.

Need more info about the Canada ETA application?

For additional questions, visit our Canada ETA information page or contact our support team through chat or WhatsApp. Our representatives are happy to help.

About our partner

About Yixi (Sophia) Li, RCIC

Yixi is a licensed Canadian immigration consultant, paralegal, and notary public. She holds a Master of Laws and is the founder of Mainstay Immigration Law Firm and Yixi Li Legal Firm.

Visit Yixi Li’s Website