Weekly Blogs - eTA for Visa-Required Countries: What You Need to Know
Traveling to Canada just got simpler for citizens from certain visa-required countries. Instead of a visa, eligible travelers can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for air travel to Canada. Here's what you need to know.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for an eTA, you must meet the following criteria:
Previous Visa Holders: You’ve held a Canadian visitor visa in the past 10 years or currently hold a valid U.S. nonimmigrant visa. The U.S. visa must be valid when applying for the eTA but not necessarily when traveling to Canada.
Temporary Stay: You’re coming to Canada for a temporary stay, typically up to six months.
Eligible Passport: You’re flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport using a valid passport from an eligible visa-required country.
If you don’t meet all these requirements, you will need a visitor visa (temporary resident visa) to travel to Canada.
Eligible Visa-Required Countries
Citizens from the following countries may apply for an eTA:
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Brazil
Costa Rica
Mexico
Morocco
Panama
Philippines
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Lucia
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Seychelles
Thailand
Trinidad and Tobago
Uruguay
Traveling by Land or Sea
Even if you are from an eligible country, you will still need a visitor visa if you plan to enter Canada by car, bus, train, or boat (including cruise ships).
Already Have a Canadian Visa?
If you already have a valid Canadian visa, you do not need an eTA to fly to Canada. Continue to use your visitor visa until it expires.
Canadian Citizens and Permanent Residents
Canadian Citizens: Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, cannot apply for an eTA. You need a valid Canadian passport to travel by air.
Permanent Residents: Permanent residents of Canada also cannot apply for an eTA. You need a valid permanent resident card or permanent resident travel document.
Boarding Your Flight with an eTA
When flying to Canada with an eTA, travel with the passport you used to apply. If you get a new passport after applying for an eTA, you must reapply with your new passport. It’s also advisable to carry your old passport if it contains your expired Canadian visitor visa or valid U.S. nonimmigrant visa.
Conclusion
Navigating the requirements for an eTA or visa to travel to Canada can be complex. If you need assistance with your application or have any questions about the process, our firm is here to help. Contact us for guidance and support to ensure your travel plans go smoothly. Let us help you make your journey to Canada as seamless as possible.
Contact R&R Law LLP for Assistance
Please contact us or schedule a consultation call with our team. Also, to stay updated on the latest Canadian immigration news, we recommend following our LinkedIn page.
Regards,
Rema and Rebecca
