Whether you applied for an eTA to the USA, Canada, Australia or any other country, there are usually just a handful of reasons why it may have been denied.
We know it can be disappointing, but you don’t have to lose all hope. It’s possible that you can reapply and still be granted an eTA to enter the country.
One of the most likely reasons your eTA could be denied is simply down to incomplete or inaccurate information when filling out the application.
What You Can Do:
It’s important that you carefully input and double check all the information you entered, including your personal details, travel itinerary, and passport information.
Simply reapplying for an eTA with the correct information should lead to approval.
2. Criminal Record or Immigration Violations
If you have a criminal record or any previous immigration violations, you can expect your eTA to be denied.
As immigration authorities carefully scrutinize applicants’ backgrounds, if you have convictions or past violations, it can lead to a denial.
What You Can Do:
It’s best to consult with immigration lawyers, who can then advise you on the next steps you need to take.
3. Insufficient Supporting Documentation
Sometimes your eTA can be taking so long to approve or even outright denied is down to failing to provide certain supporting documents, such as a valid passport, proof of travel arrangements, and proof of financial stability.
What You Can Do:
Gather and submit all the necessary documents outlined by the immigration authorities before you apply again.
4. Travel History and Previous Visa Denials
If you have a history of previous visa denials or even a pattern of frequent travel to certain countries, immigration officials may become suspicious.
What You Can Do:
Make sure that you provide a clear and legitimate reason for your visit and address any previous visa denials in your application.
5. Medical Ineligibility and Health Concerns
Certain medical conditions or health concerns may lead to denial, as you may be at higher risk for medical treatment or a risk to public health or safety.
What You Can Do:
Understand the health requirements of the country you want to enter, and provide any necessary medical documentation. Having travel medical insurance can also help.
6. Overstaying Previous Visits
Immigration authorities take into account an individual’s compliance with previous visa or entry requirements
Even if you unintentionally overstayed a previous visit to a country, it can raise red flags.
What You Can Do:
While you can’t go back in time, in the future make sure that you leave when you are supposed to, to avoid any negative impact on eTA applications.
If you overstayed by only a couple of days and have a valid reason for doing so, you might still be okay.
7. Security Concerns and National Interests
If you have been involved in an activity that is deemed a threat to national security or are a member of certain organizations, your eTA application may be rejected.
What You Can Do:
Be sure to abide by the laws and regulations of the country you are looking to enter, and do not engage in any activities that may raise suspicion.
8. Inability to Prove Purpose of Visit
If you are unable to demonstrate a legitimate reason for your visit, in a clear and credible way, such as for tourism, business, or family visits, your eTA application may be denied.
What You Can Do:
Make sure that you can provide supporting documentation, such as travel itineraries, conference registrations, or invitation letters, to establish the purpose of your trip.
9. Unpaid Fines or Outstanding Debts
If you have any outstanding fines or debts with immigration authorities, expect your eTA application to be denied.
What You Can Do
Clear any outstanding debts or fines you may have to enhance your chances of eTA approval.
10. Misrepresentation or Fraudulent Activities
If you provide false information or engaged in fraudulent activities during the application process, such as intentionally providing false or misleading information, or using counterfeit documents, it’s likely that you will be caught, and your application will be denied.
What You Can Do:
It’s unlikely you can do much in this instance, and you may even face legal penalties, travel restrictions, or permanent inadmissibility to the country.
