Canada is a popular destination for travelers, families, students, and workers alike. With its welcoming policies, cultural diversity, and strong economy, millions of visitors enter the country every year. However, before making travel plans, it is important to understand the requirements for minor children travelling to Canada as well as the rules surrounding working in Canada with your eTA.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of these two important topics to help families and individuals prepare for a smooth journey.

Requirements for Minor Children Travelling to Canada

When children under the age of 18 (or 19 in some provinces) plan to travel to Canada, there are specific rules and documents required to ensure their entry is permitted. The Canadian government takes child protection seriously, which is why the requirements for minor children travelling to Canada are carefully regulated.

1. Valid Travel Documents

Minor children must carry their own valid passport. Depending on their nationality, they may also need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Without these documents, boarding a flight or entering Canada will not be possible.

2. Letter of Authorization

If a child is traveling alone or with only one parent or guardian, Canadian border officials often request a notarized letter of authorization. This letter should include:

• The child’s full name and date of birth
  
  

• The names of both parents or legal guardians
  
  

• The name of the person(s) the child is traveling with (if applicable)
  
  

• Contact information for the absent parent(s) or guardians
  This letter reassures authorities that the child has permission to travel and is not being taken abroad without consent.
  
  

3. Additional Identification

Besides passports and authorization letters, minors may be asked for other documents such as a birth certificate, adoption papers, or custody documents. These help confirm the child’s identity and relationship with accompanying adults.

4. Traveling with a School or Group

Children traveling with schools, sports teams, or other organizations should have a consent letter signed by parents or guardians, along with details about the trip, supervisors, and accommodations.

5. Border Officials’ Role

Canadian border officers have the right to ask questions to ensure the safety of minors. Parents and guardians should prepare children to answer basic questions about their trip.

By ensuring compliance with these requirements for minor children travelling to Canada, families can avoid unnecessary delays or complications at the border.

Working in Canada with Your eTA

The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. It is electronically linked to your passport and usually valid for up to five years. While it is a convenient tool for travelers, it is important to understand the rules surrounding working in Canada with your eTA.

1. Purpose of an eTA

An eTA is designed for short-term visits, such as tourism, business meetings, or family visits. It does not grant permission to live or work in Canada permanently. Many travelers mistakenly believe that an eTA allows them to take on employment, but this is not the case.

2. Can You Work with an eTA?

In general, working in Canada with your eTA is not allowed unless you obtain a valid work permit in addition to your eTA. An eTA only facilitates entry into the country. If you are planning to accept a job, you must apply for a work permit before arriving.

3. Business vs. Employment

Travelers with an eTA can attend business meetings, conferences, or negotiate contracts. However, this is not the same as being employed in Canada. Paid employment requires a work permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

4. Applying for a Work Permit

If you want to work in Canada, you must apply for a work permit, which may be employer-specific or open. The requirements depend on the type of job, your skills, and the employer’s eligibility. Having an eTA alone will not suffice.

5. Consequences of Working without a Permit

Attempting to work in Canada without proper authorization can have serious consequences, including:

• Being denied entry at the border
  
  

• Removal from Canada
  
  

• Future difficulties in obtaining visas or permits
  Therefore, anyone considering working in Canada with your eTA must secure the appropriate documentation beforehand.
  
  

Key Takeaways

• The requirements for minor children travelling to Canada include valid travel documents, authorization letters (when needed), and additional identification. These measures are designed to protect children and ensure safe travel.
  
  

• The eTA allows visa-exempt travelers to visit Canada for tourism, business, or transit purposes, but it does not permit employment. Working in Canada with your eTA requires obtaining a separate work permit.
  
  

Conclusion

Traveling to Canada, whether as a family with children or as an individual planning to explore business opportunities, requires careful preparation. For families, meeting the requirements for minor children travelling to Canada ensures that young travelers have a smooth and safe journey. For professionals and job seekers, understanding the rules around working in Canada with your eTA helps prevent misunderstandings and legal issues at the border.

By following these guidelines, travelers can enjoy all that Canada has to offer—whether it’s breathtaking natural beauty, cultural diversity, or professional growth opportunities—without unnecessary stress or complications.