Originally Posted by
jc94
Actually you can apply at the airport, on a cell phone. I spoke to a guy on a plane who had to do it at a US airport.
But it’s not recommended as while it is normally quick, it can take a day or three. Though possibly only if you have previous visas and permits to check.
Originally Posted by
mapleg
Don't even think of applying at the airport with a cell phone. Downside obviously is you are not allowed to board.
Just apply right now and get it over with.
Possible, yes - a buddy of mine who lives in SIN was flying to Canada with his Singaporean girlfriend and didn't pay attention to the fact she needed an eTA. Found that out when they got to the airport to check in. Thankfully she was able to get it almost instantly on her phone.
But definitely not worth risking international travel plans over.
Originally Posted by
FlyingHoustonian
And US and Canadian airports for the most part do not have transit areas such as with airports in the EU. Everyone goes through customs and immigration because one is then dumped into the country and has to enter the main terminals. In theory you could just walk out of the airport and get in a cab after landing in either country.
A few airports have one-stop and through baggage to slightly facilitate easier transit- for example at Houston-IAH if you are flying United from say LHR-IAH-MEX your checked bags do not have to be picked up at IAH and cleared via customs. A few other airports now have that feature, but other than that slight convenience you have to have ESTA, eTA, or visa for both the US and CAN and do the full work-up.
Your information is somewhat out of date with regards to Canada, where there is now sterile international transit at YYZ, YYC and, I think, YUL. For the most part, it's quick document check - not the same as a customs interview/inspection - and no need to reclaim bags.