HMSC – In a significant move to boost tourism and strengthen international ties, Canada has introduced visa-free travel privileges for 13 countries, including several Caribbean and Latin American nations. The Canadian government has also extended access to its Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) program, which simplifies the process of short-term visits.
Which Countries Are Now Visa-Free?
Travellers from the following countries can now enter Canada without a visa, provided they meet certain eligibility criteria:
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
Uruguay
This update is seen as a positive diplomatic step, particularly for Caribbean nations, five of which are included in the new visa-exempt list.
Who Can Benefit from This Policy?
The visa-free entry applies to travellers flying into Canada who:
Have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years, or
Currently hold a valid non-immigrant visa for the United States
This new provision allows eligible individuals to stay in Canada for up to six months without obtaining a separate visa.
What Is an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a digital entry requirement for citizens of visa-exempt countries who are flying to Canada. Whether you’re visiting or transiting through a Canadian airport, you must have an eTA if your country is included under the visa-free policy. Ground or sea travelers, such as those arriving by car from the U.S. or by cruise ship, do not require an eTA.
How to Apply for a Canadian eTA
Applying for an eTA is simple and can be completed online. Here’s what you’ll need:
A valid passport from one of the eligible countries
A working email address
A credit or debit card to pay the $7 CAD fee
The application process typically takes just a few minutes. Most applicants receive their eTA within minutes, although some applications may require additional documentation and take longer. An eTA remains valid for five years, or until your passport expires—whichever comes first. During this time, travellers can make multiple visits to Canada for short stays.
Why Canada Introduced This Travel Policy
The Canadian government’s decision to expand the visa-free list is part of a broader effort to streamline travel, support economic growth through tourism, and strengthen global partnerships. It also aligns with Canada’s ongoing strategy to promote safe and convenient travel, making it easier for pre-screened, low-risk travellers to enter the country.
What This Means for Caribbean and Latin American Travellers
For many Caribbean and Latin American nations, the visa process has long been a barrier to spontaneous travel. By joining the eTA program, countries like Argentina, Trinidad and Tobago, and St. Lucia now enjoy the freedom to travel to Canada quickly and affordably, opening up new opportunities for family visits, business travel, and tourism.
Transit Through Canada Also Requires eTA
Even if you are only transiting through a Canadian airport, you must apply for an eTA if you’re from one of the included countries. This policy ensures all incoming air travellers are screened before boarding, contributing to national security while maintaining convenience.
Additional Considerations for Travellers
While the eTA simplifies the entry process, travellers must still meet standard Canadian entry requirements, such as:
Having sufficient funds for the visit
Demonstrating intent to leave Canada before the authorised stay ends
Not posing a security or health risk
Canadian border officials may request documentation or ask questions to confirm the purpose of your visit.
What If Your Country Is Not on the List?
If your country isn’t part of the new visa-free list, you’ll still need to apply for a visitor visa through the usual process. However, Canada continues to expand its immigration and travel programs, so it’s advisable to monitor official announcements for future updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the purpose of Canada’s new visa-free travel list?
The new policy aims to encourage tourism and strengthen ties with specific countries by allowing eligible travellers to enter Canada without a traditional visa, using the eTA system instead.
2. How long can I stay in Canada under the eTA visa-free program?
Eligible travellers can stay in Canada for up to six months per visit, as long as their eTA remains valid.
3. Who qualifies for visa-free entry to Canada under this policy?
Travellers who are from one of the 13 approved countries and have either held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years or currently possess a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa qualify.
4. Do I need a visa if I’m just transiting through a Canadian airport?
Yes, even for airport transits, you need to obtain an eTA in advance if you’re flying from one of the visa-exempt countries.
5. How do I apply for an eTA to enter Canada?
You can apply online through the official Canadian government website using a valid passport, an email address, and a $7 CAD payment. Most applications are approved within minutes.