Canada to Introduce Biometric Requirements for Visa-Exempt Travelers Under eTA Process

Canada is set to introduce a biometric requirement for its Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system for visa-exempt travelers. If approved, applicants will need to upload a passport scan and a recent photo, similar to processes in the US, UK, and other countries. Although no timeline has been confirmed, these changes could occur by 2025.

Proposed Changes to the eTA Process

Currently, obtaining an eTA to enter Canada is a straightforward process. Travelers complete a brief online form, pay a small fee, and receive approval in minutes. There’s no need for additional documents or photos.

However, Canadian immigration authorities are seeking to enhance identity verification. The recent Forward Regulatory Plan (2025-2027) from the IRCC indicates plans to introduce facial biometrics for visa-exempt travelers applying for an eTA.

What This Means for Travelers

Under the proposed changes, applicants may soon need to upload a copy of their passport and a recent photo during the application process. This adjustment aims to improve security and streamline identity verification.

Why Are These Changes Necessary?

This move isn’t just about adding bureaucracy. Canada aims to align its eTA system with existing frameworks in countries like the US (ESTA), UK (ETA), South Korea (K-ETA), and the European Union. The primary goals include:

• Reducing identity fraud
• Strengthening security measures
• Enhancing consistency across international travel systems

The IRCC emphasizes that biometric data will help verify identities more accurately and close significant gaps in the current system.

Will This Complicate the eTA Process?

Not at all. If implemented, the eTA process will remain entirely online. Travelers won’t need to visit a biometric center or undergo in-person verification. The goal is to maintain speed and convenience while simply adding the requirement to upload a passport scan and photo.

However, travelers should expect a potential increase in fees. With the US ESTA fee rising to 40, it’s likely the CA40 eTA fee will also increase.

Current Status of the Proposal

At this stage, the biometric requirement is still a proposal. It is part of a long-term regulatory roadmap, indicating that it is in early development. There is currently no established timeline. If Canada advances with the plan, public consultation and formal legislative steps will follow before anything is officially enacted.

This inclusion in the 2025–2027 regulatory plan shows a clear intention. It’s not a question of if it will happen, but when.

What Should Travelers Anticipate?

If the proposal moves forward, travelers from visa-exempt countries can expect to do the following when applying for an eTA:

• Upload a clear scan of the passport photo page
• Upload a recent passport-style photo, likely with specific requirements
• There won’t be any fingerprinting or in-person steps involved. While this is a minimal request, it could significantly enhance Canada’s security measures.

Final Thoughts

Canada’s eTA system has long been praised for its efficiency and simplicity. This upcoming update, while slightly more involved, aims to strengthen identity checks without sacrificing ease. For most travelers, it will only add a few extra minutes and possibly a small fee increase.

If you plan to visit Canada in the next few years, stay informed about these developments. A passport scan and a photo may soon become essential for entry.