Differences Between Passport and eTA

A passport and an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) serve different purposes in international travel. While they are often confused, each document plays a separate role. In most cases, you must hold a valid passport to travel abroad. An eTA, where required, acts as advance permission to enter a specific country under defined conditions.

Some countries allow travel without a prior visa but still require an eTA. This does not replace the passport requirement.

Passport vs eTA: Key Differences

Types of Passports

Countries issue different passport types based on the holder’s status and travel purpose:

• Regular Passport
  Issued to the general public for standard international travel.
• Service Passport
  Issued to government officials and dependants travelling for official duties.
• Diplomatic Passport
  Issued to diplomats and dependants. Holding this passport does not grant automatic diplomatic immunity.
• Emergency Passport
  Issued temporarily when a passport is lost or stolen and urgent travel is required.
• Collective Passport
  Used for organised group travel, such as school trips.
• Family Passport
  A single document covering multiple family members. This format is now limited, as many countries require individual passports.

Other Travel Documents

In specific situations, countries issue alternative travel documents:

• Refugee Travel Document
  Issued to recognised refugees who cannot use a national passport.
• Interpol Travel Document
  Used by Interpol officers for official international duties.
• Certificate of Identity
  Issued to non-citizens or stateless individuals, including historical examples such as the Nansen passport.
• Travel Permits
  Issued when a standard passport cannot be used. Examples include re-entry permits and replacement travel documents issued by certain governments.

Understanding eTA Use

An eTA is an electronic authorisation granted before travel. It confirms that you meet entry requirements but does not replace your passport. The scope, validity, and conditions of an eTA depend on the destination country.

Global Passport Rankings 

Passport strength is commonly measured by the number of destinations that allow entry without a prior visa.

According to the Henley Passport Index (July 2025 update):

• Singapore ranks first, with access to 193 destinations without a prior visa.
• Japan and South Korea follow jointly, each with access to 190 destinations.
• Several European passports share the next tier with access to 189 destinations.
• Afghanistan ranks lowest, with access to 25 destinations.

Passport rankings change over time and depend on bilateral agreements and entry policies.

Applying for an eTA

Where an eTA is required, the general process follows these steps:

1. Check entry requirements
   Confirm whether your destination requires an eTA.
2. Prepare documents
   Ensure your passport remains valid beyond your planned stay.
3. Submit application
   Complete the eTA application through the official platform of the destination country.
4. Receive authorisation
   Approved eTAs are issued electronically and must be presented with your passport.

After eTA Approval

• Some countries issue electronic confirmations only.
• Others may link the eTA digitally to your passport.
• You must carry your passport and any required confirmation when travelling.

Status note

As of 2026, passport and eTA requirements continue to be governed by destination-specific entry rules, with electronic authorisation systems remaining in active use where applicable.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between a passport and an eTA?
  A passport is issued by your country of citizenship and confirms your identity. An eTA is permission granted by the destination country to enter under defined conditions.
• Are there different types of passports?
  Yes. Common types include regular, service, diplomatic, emergency, collective, and family passports.
• Do all countries require an eTA?
  No. Requirements depend on nationality, destination, and entry rules.
• Can I travel with only a passport?
  A passport is essential, but many destinations require an additional eTA or entry authorisation.
• How long does an eTA remain valid?
  Validity varies by country and travel purpose. You must follow the conditions stated in the approval.