# eVisa vs ETA: what is the difference?

Both are requested online before travel, but they are different permissions:

- An **ETA (electronic travel authorisation)** is generally advance permission to travel under a visa-exemption programme.
- An **eVisa (electronic visa)** is a visa whose application and issuance happen electronically.

## At a glance

| | ETA | eVisa |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Legal category | Usually visa-exempt travel | A visa |
| Process | Short online pre-screening | Online visa application and review |
| Result | Permission to travel, often linked to the passport | An electronic visa or downloadable visa document |
| MultiPass Rank mobility score | Counts | Does not count |

## Is an ETA a visa?

Usually, no. An ETA is normally advance permission to travel for a traveller who is otherwise visa-exempt. It does not replace a visa when the traveller needs one.

## What is an eVisa?

An eVisa changes the application and issuance process, not the underlying document: it is still a visa that requires approval before travel.

## Why MultiPass Rank treats them differently

The mobility score counts destinations accessible without obtaining a visa before departure: visa-free, visa-on-arrival, and ETA destinations. An eVisa remains a visa requiring prior approval, so it appears in detailed access results but does not add to the score. Officially documented entry restrictions are also shown and never add to the score.

Government terminology is not perfectly standardised. Always verify the classification and current requirements for your passport, route, and travel purpose with the destination authority.

## Official examples

- [United Kingdom ETA rules](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-electronic-travel-authorisation)
- [Government of Canada eTA](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta.html)
- [Azerbaijan ASAN eVisa conditions](https://www.evisa.gov.az/en/conditions)

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