E-Travel Authorization Program in Canada Extended to 13 New Countries

ByAnkush

Canada has just announced the expansion of its Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) program to cover qualified travelers from 13 new nations, five of which are in the Caribbean. Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced the possibility of visa-free travel for citizens of these countries.

Travelers from the aforementioned 13 countries must meet one of two conditions to qualify for the eTA: they must have held a Canadian visa within the last 10 years, or they must have a valid non-immigrant visa for the United States when entering Canada by air.

This expansion includes the following 13 countries:

  • Antigua and Barbuda are two Caribbean islands.
  • Argentina
  • Costa Rica’s
  • Morocco
  • Panama
  • St. Kitts and Nevis
  •  St. Lucia
  • St. Vincent and the Grenadines
  • Seychelles
  • Thailand
  • Trinidad and Tobago (T&T)
  • Uruguay

This decision allows citizens of these nations to visit Canada for leisure or business for a maximum of six months without requiring a visa. Furthermore, the action is likely to ease the stress on Canada’s visa department, which has been dealing with a significant backlog of temporary resident visa applications.

Travelers from these 13 countries who have a valid visa can continue to use it to enter Canada. Those who are not eligible for the eTA or who are traveling to Canada by means other than air must still apply for a visit visa.

Minister Sean Fraser emphasized that this expansion not only improves travel convenience but also promotes increased travel, tourism, economic advantages, and stronger global links between Canada and the 13 participating countries.

Understanding Electronic Travel Authorizations (eTA):

Foreign nationals from visa-exempt nations must get an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada. This criterion applies to those wishing to visit Canada or transit through the nation.

Important Information About Electronic Travel Authorization:

An eTA is required because Travellers from visa-free nations visiting Canada by plane must get an eTA, with a few exceptions listed below:

  • Individuals who already have a valid visa to enter Canada.
  • Those who arrive in Canada via land or sea.
  • Armed services soldiers on official duty in Canada.
  • Flight crew, civil aviation inspectors, and accident investigators are all involved.
  • Residents and visitors from St. Pierre and Miquelon who are French nationals.
  • Individuals arriving from the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon while possessing valid visiting, student, or worker status in Canada.
  • Diplomatic credentials.
  • Citizens of Canada and dual citizens (traveling on a Canadian passport).
  • Permanent residents of Canada (requiring their PR card or point of entrance proof).
  • Citizens and permanent residents of the United States.

Obtaining an eTA:

Applicants can apply for an eTA through the official website of the Canadian federal government. A valid passport, an email address, and a credit card for the $7 application cost are required.

Application Timeliness:

It is best to apply for an eTA as soon as the travel schedule is finalized. However, an eTA can be obtained at the last minute by using a smartphone and an internet connection. The email authorization is usually received within minutes, however processing durations may vary if further supporting papers are necessary.

Validity Period:

An eTA is valid for five years or until the passport or travel document expires, whichever comes first, and there are no restrictions on the number of entries to Canada as long as the eTA is valid.

For more details visit www.visadone.com/