Canada Opens Visa‑Free Entry for 13 Countries – Who Can Travel Without a Visa and How the New eTA Works

Canada has officially announced a major travel policy update that will allow citizens of thirteen countries to travel to Canada without a traditional visitor visa. This move is expected to make short‑term travel easier, faster, and more accessible for eligible travelers while boosting tourism and business visits.

To support this change, the Canadian government has expanded its Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) program, which allows approved travelers to enter Canada for up to six months without applying for a regular visitor visa.

Visa‑Free Travel Linked to the eTA Program

Under the new rules, travelers from selected countries will not need to visit a visa application center or submit lengthy paperwork. Instead, they can apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), a digital travel permit linked directly to their passport.

The eTA simplifies entry into Canada, especially for tourists, family visitors, and short‑term business travelers who meet specific eligibility conditions.

Full List of Countries Eligible for Visa‑Free Travel to Canada

Canada has confirmed that citizens of the following 13 countries can access visa‑free travel under the expanded eTA framework:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Argentina
• Costa Rica
• Morocco
• Panama
• Philippines
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Seychelles
• Thailand
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Uruguay

Notably, five Caribbean nations are included, highlighting Canada’s focus on strengthening ties with the region.

Who Is Eligible to Use the Visa‑Free eTA Program?

Although the countries listed above are visa‑free under this policy, not every citizen automatically qualifies. Travelers must meet specific eligibility criteria set by Canadian immigration authorities.

To be eligible, travelers must meet at least one of the following conditions:

• They must have held a Canadian visa at any time in the past ten years, or
• They must currently hold a valid non‑immigrant visa issued by the United States

Only travelers who meet these conditions can use the eTA instead of applying for a visitor visa.

How Long Can Travelers Stay in Canada?

Under the eTA‑based visa‑free travel program:

• Travelers can stay in Canada for up to six months per visit
• The stay is for tourism, family visits, or short‑term business purposes
• The eTA does not allow long‑term work or study in Canada

Immigration officers at the port of entry still have the authority to decide the final length of stay.

What Is an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a digital entry requirement for travelers from visa‑exempt countries who are flying to or transiting through Canada.

It is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport and acts as a pre‑screening tool to enhance border security while keeping travel procedures simple.

Even travelers who are only transiting through Canada by air must have a valid eTA.

When Is an eTA Required?

A valid eTA is required if:

• You are flying to Canada from a visa‑exempt country
• You are transiting through a Canadian airport
• You are entering Canada by air for short‑term travel

However, an eTA is not required for travelers entering Canada by land or sea, such as by car or cruise ship

How to Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization

Applying for an eTA is a simple online process that usually takes only a few minutes.

To apply, travelers need:

• A valid passport
• A working email address
• A credit or debit card to pay the fee

The application is submitted through Canada’s official federal government website, ensuring data security and authenticity.

eTA Application Fee and Processing Time

• The eTA application fee is CAD $7
• Most applications are approved within minutes
• Some applications may take longer if additional checks are required

Applicants are advised to apply before booking flights to avoid last‑minute delays.

How Long Is an eTA Valid?

An approved eTA is generally valid for:

• Up to five years, or
• Until the passport expires, whichever comes first

During its validity, travelers can make multiple trips to Canada, provided each stay does not exceed six months.

Why Canada Expanded Visa‑Free Travel Access

Canada’s decision to expand visa‑free travel reflects several strategic goals:

• Boosting tourism and visitor numbers
• Strengthening diplomatic and economic ties
• Reducing visa processing pressure
• Encouraging business and family travel

The move aligns Canada with other major travel destinations that rely on electronic authorization systems rather than traditional visas.

Important Points Travelers Should Remember

While the visa‑free eTA program offers flexibility, travelers should note:

• An eTA does not guarantee entry into Canada
• Final entry decisions are made by border officers
• Travelers must still meet health, security, and admissibility checks
• Overstaying or violating conditions can affect future travel

Canada Encourages Safe and Responsible Travel

Canadian authorities have emphasized that the eTA program is designed to balance ease of travel with border security. Travelers are encouraged to follow all entry rules, respect local laws, and ensure their documents remain valid throughout their stay.

As international travel continues to grow, this policy is expected to make Canada an even more attractive destination.