Visa-free entry to Canada is now available to citizens of 13 additional countries. This only applies to travelers from these countries who have either recently held a Canadian visa or who currently have a valid United States non-immigrant visa.

On June 6, 2023, at 11:30 a.m. in Winnipeg, Canada, the country’s commitment to enhancing immigration programs and services was highlighted by the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. The announcement focused on the expansion of the electronic travel authorization (eTA) program to include 13 additional countries, aimed at making travel to Canada more efficient and equitable for individuals worldwide.

Under the newly implemented changes, travelers from these 13 countries who have held a valid Canadian visa within the last decade or possess a valid non-immigrant visa for the United States can now apply for an eTA instead of a traditional visa when traveling to Canada by air. The eligible countries benefiting from this program are Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, Philippines, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Seychelles, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, and Uruguay.

By introducing visa-free air travel, the Canadian government aims to streamline the process, providing a faster, more convenient, and cost-effective means for thousands of travelers to visit Canada for up to six months, whether for business or leisure purposes. The initiative is expected to bolster Canada’s economy by facilitating increased travel, tourism, and international business opportunities, while simultaneously nurturing stronger diplomatic relations with the newly included countries, all while prioritizing the safety and security of Canadians.

Furthermore, the decision to expand the eTA program is anticipated to alleviate the burden on Canada’s visa caseload, enabling more efficient processing of visa applications for all applicants.

It is important to note that individuals who currently possess a valid visa can continue to utilize it for travel to Canada. Additionally, those who are ineligible for an eTA or plan to enter Canada by means other than air, such as car, bus, train, or boat (including cruise ships), will still require a visitor visa. Eligibility criteria and application procedures for the eTA program can be found on the official website Canada.ca/eTA.

These progressive changes signify Canada’s commitment to facilitating travel, promoting economic growth, and strengthening global relationships while upholding the well-being and security of all involved parties/

 

How is eTA different from travel visa?

 

The electronic travel authorization (eTA) and a travel visa are both entry requirements for foreign nationals traveling to Canada, but they have some key differences.

Purpose: The eTA is designed for individuals from specific visa-exempt countries who are traveling to Canada by air for short stays, either for tourism, business, or transit purposes. On the other hand, a travel visa is required for individuals from countries that are not visa-exempt or for those who plan to enter Canada by means other than air, such as by car, bus, train, or boat.

Application Process: The application process for an eTA is completed online and is generally quicker and more streamlined compared to a travel visa application. Applicants for an eTA need to provide their personal information, passport details, and answer a few eligibility questions. In contrast, a travel visa application usually involves more extensive documentation, such as supporting documents, financial statements, and in-person visits to a Canadian embassy or consulate.

Validity and Duration: An eTA is typically valid for five years from the date of approval or until the expiration of the traveler’s passport, whichever comes first. With an approved eTA, individuals can make multiple visits to Canada within that period, each visit allowing a stay of up to six months. In contrast, a travel visa’s validity and duration may vary depending on the specific type and purpose of the visa granted.

Entry Method: The eTA is applicable for travelers entering Canada by air only. If someone intends to enter Canada by land, sea, or other means, they will require a travel visa, regardless of their nationality.

It’s important to note that the eligibility requirements, application processes, and specific regulations for the eTA and travel visas can change over time. It’s recommended to consult the official Government of Canada website or contact the Canadian embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding entry requirements for traveling to Canada.