The main eTA Canada contact number is 1-800-622-6232 (IRCC toll-free helpline). From the UK, dial 00 1 613 944 4000 if the toll-free line is unavailable. Support hours are 8 a.m.-4 p.m. ET (1 p.m.-9 p.m. GMT). For status checks, visit the IRCC online portal at Canada.ca before calling.
Last updated: 8 September 2026. Phone numbers verified against Canada.ca on 3 September 2026. This is an independent informational guide; for authoritative decisions, always refer to Canada.ca.
The Main eTA Canada Contact Number (IRCC Helpline)
The primary eTA Canada contact number is 1-800-622-6232, IRCC’s toll-free helpline handling status checks, payment issues, and general eTA inquiries. This line is operated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) under the 1-800 O-Canada service brand. Callers can verify application status, troubleshoot payment failures, and update passport details. For travellers already in Canada or on Canadian roaming, the IRCC Client Support Centre is reachable at +1-888-242-2100.
| Number | Type | Best-use scenario |
|---|---|---|
| 1-800-622-6232 | Voice (toll-free) | General eTA enquiries from within Canada |
| 1-800-926-9105 | TTY | Hearing or speech-impaired callers requiring relay assistance |
| +1-888-242-2100 | Voice (domestic) | Travellers already in Canada on Canadian roaming |
TTY Accessibility for the eTA Canada Contact Number
Hearing or speech-impaired callers should dial 1-800-926-9105 (TTY). UK callers can access this line via relay services by dialling 00 1 800 926 9105.
How to Call the eTA Helpline From the UK – Dialling Codes and Hours
UK callers dial 00 1 613 944 4000 (collect calls accepted) to avoid toll-free charges from abroad. The toll-free 1-800-622-6232 may work internationally but charges may apply. Support hours run 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET, converting to 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. GMT or 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. BST (in effect 29 March to 25 October 2026). The phone menu offers English and French language selection. No dedicated eTA email inbox exists; the IRCC web form is the recommended written channel. Based on user reports, callers during peak hours (1-3 p.m. GMT) may wait 15-20 minutes; try calling earlier in the support window.
Common Reasons to Call the eTA Support Line
The most frequent reasons to call the eTA Canada contact number are payment failures, document upload errors, processing delays exceeding 72 hours, and application status inquiries.
- Payment failures – IRCC phone agents can advise on accepted card types (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) but cannot process payments over the phone.
- Document upload errors – system rejections due to file size, format, or image quality may require live troubleshooting.
- Cancelling or amending an eTA – once approved, an eTA generally cannot be changed; a new application is required for passport changes.
- Processing delays – standard processing typically completes within minutes but can extend to 72 hours; longer delays may need escalation to senior immigration officers.
- Application status inquiries – verify approval, refusal, or pending status.
Check Your eTA Application Status Online (Without Calling)
Applicants can check eTA status instantly at Canada.ca using a passport number or eTA application number – faster than calling the eTA Canada contact number for standard status queries. Use the IRCC Virtual Waiting Room with your passport number, eTA application number, or the email used during application. For case-specific written enquiries, use the IRCC help centre and web form, as no dedicated eTA email inbox exists. A limited live webchat may be available as a fallback.
Beware of Scam eTA Contact Numbers
Only trust eTA contact numbers listed on Canada.ca; the eTA costs CAD $7, and IRCC never requests phone payments or personal data via unsolicited calls. Only use numbers listed on Canada.ca or ircc.canada.ca. Third-party sites charge significantly more and are not affiliated with the Canadian government. Scam indicators: premium-rate charges on unofficial phone lines, requests for payment over the phone, unsolicited calls asking for personal data. Embassies cannot help with eTA matters; the Embassy of Sweden in Ottawa redirects eTA questions to Canada.ca.
Canadian High Commission in London (Complex eTA Cases)
Complex eTA cases such as prior visa refusals or inadmissibility concerns may require contacting the Canadian High Commission in London at Canada House, Trafalgar Square. Complex cases (prior visa refusals, inadmissibility concerns, criminal records) may need direct embassy contact rather than the eTA Canada contact number. The Canadian High Commission is located at Canada House, Trafalgar Square, London SW1A 1AA. For standard eTA issues, call IRCC first at 1-800-622-6232.
Canada House, Trafalgar Square, London SW1A 1AAEmergency Travel Assistance
For urgent issues such as boarding denial due to a pending eTA, use channels listed on travel.gc.ca:
- Telephone (inside Canada): 613-996-8885
- Toll-free (US & Canada): 1-800-387-3124
- SMS: +1-613-686-3658
- WhatsApp: +1-613-909-8881
FAQ
What is the eTA Canada contact number for UK residents?
Main: 1-800-622-6232 (IRCC). From UK: 00 1 613 944 4000 if toll-free unavailable.
Can I call the eTA helpline from outside Canada?
Yes – use 00 1 613 944 4000 (collect calls) or +1-888-242-2100 if in Canada.
What are the eTA Canada support hours in UK time (GMT/BST)?
Support hours: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. ET = 1 p.m.-9 p.m. GMT / 2 p.m.-10 p.m. BST (Mar 29-Oct 25, 2026).
How do I check my eTA application status by phone?
Checking online is faster. Use the Virtual Waiting Room at onlineservices-servicesenligne.cic.gc.ca/eta/applicationQuery?lang=en with your passport number, eTA application number, or email address.
What should I do if my eTA payment fails?
Call the IRCC helpline. Phone agents cannot process payments but can advise on accepted card types (Visa, Mastercard, Amex).
Is there an eTA Canada support email or live chat?
No dedicated eTA email exists. Use the IRCC web form for case-specific enquiries, or check the IRCC help centre for a limited live webchat.
How do I cancel or change my eTA after it has been approved?
Once approved, an eTA generally cannot be changed. Submit a new application for passport changes.
Why is my eTA taking longer than expected to process?
Standard processing completes within minutes but can extend to 72 hours. Longer delays may require escalation to senior immigration officers.
Are there any scam eTA phone numbers I should avoid?
Only trust numbers on Canada.ca or ircc.canada.ca. The eTA costs CAD $7. Avoid premium-rate lines and unsolicited data calls.
What number do I call for urgent eTA travel issues?
Urgent boarding issues: 613-996-8885 (in Canada), 1-800-387-3124 (US/CA), SMS +1-613-686-3658, WhatsApp +1-613-909-8881.
