France to Canada tourist visa
Complete guide to visiting Canada as a French citizen. eTA required for air travel, CAD $7 fee. Learn about requirements, processing times, and entry rules.
- Visa
- Canada eTA (Visa-Exempt)
- Fee
- C$7
- Processing time
- Minutes
- Length of stay
- Up to 6 months
Required documents
- Valid French Passport — Your passport must be valid for the duration of your planned stay in Canada
- Online eTA Application — Complete the online eTA application through the official Government of Canada website
- Payment Method — Credit or debit card to pay the CAD $7 application fee
- Valid Email Address — Email address to receive your eTA confirmation
How to apply
- Personal details (name exactly as — Personal details (name exactly as shown in passport, date of birth)
- Passport information (number, country of — Passport information (number, country of issue, expiry date)
- Employment and travel information — Employment and travel information
- Background questions about health and — Background questions about health and criminal history
- Information triggers security screening — Information triggers security screening
- Background questions require further assessment — Background questions require further assessment
Common questions
- Do French citizens need a visa to visit Canada?
- No. French citizens are visa-exempt and only need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when flying to or transiting through Canada. The eTA costs CAD $7 and is usually approved within minutes. No eTA is needed if arriving by land or sea from the United States.
- What is a Canadian eTA?
- An eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. It is electronically linked to your passport, valid for 5 years or until your passport expires, and allows multiple entries for short stays up to 6 months each.
- How long does eTA approval take?
- Most eTA applications are approved within minutes of submission. Some applications may require additional processing time if manual review is needed. You should apply before booking flights, though last-minute applications are often processed quickly.
- How long can French citizens stay in Canada?
- French citizens can stay in Canada for up to 6 months per visit. The exact duration may be determined by the border services officer upon entry. You cannot live in Canada through repeated visits or work during your stay.
- Do I need an eTA if I am driving to Canada from the USA?
- No. French citizens do not need an eTA when arriving in Canada by land or sea. The eTA is only required for air travel. However, you still need a valid passport and may be asked standard border questions.
- What happens if my eTA is refused?
- If your eTA is refused, you should not attempt to fly to Canada as you will be denied boarding. Review the refusal reasons carefully, address any issues, and consider reapplying. For complex cases involving criminal inadmissibility, consult an immigration lawyer.