The Canadian government has announced that electronic travel authorizations (eTAs) are now available to citizens of 13 countries. An eTA is a digital travel document that allows eligible travelers to fly to Canada without a visa. To apply for an ETA, citizens of these countries must create an account on the IRCC website and complete an online application form. The application form requires basic information such as name, date of birth, passport number, and travel plans. The application fee is CAD $7.
Note: To qualify, applicants must have a valid U.S. visa or have been issued a Canadian visa in the last 10 years.
eTAs are valid for five years and can be used for multiple trips to Canada. Once an eTA is approved, it is linked to the traveler's passport and does not need to be printed out.
The introduction of eTAs for citizens of these countries is a significant development that will make it easier for them to travel to Canada. eTAs are a convenient and affordable way to travel to Canada, and they can be applied for online in just a few minutes.
“This exciting development means that more individuals from around the world can now embark on unforgettable adventures, explore our diverse landscapes, reunite with family and friends, and immerse themselves in our vibrant culture without the hurdle of visa requirements. This expansion not only enhances convenience for travellers, it will also increase travel, tourism and economic benefits, as well as strengthen global bonds with these 13 countries.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser,
Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
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Benefits of eTAs
There are several benefits to applying for an ETA, including:
- Convenience: eTAs can be applied for online in just a few minutes, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Affordability: The application fee is CAD $7.
- Flexibility: eTAs are valid for five years and can be used for multiple trips to Canada.
- Security: eTAs are linked to the traveler's passport and provide a layer of security for travel to Canada.
Requirements for eTAs
To be eligible for an eTA, citizens of the Philippines must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a valid passport from the Philippines.
- Have a valid email address.
13 Countries Receive eTA Benefits
Effective June 6, 2023, eligible travellers from these 13 countries can benefit from the eTA program:
- 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
Travellers who are not eligible for an eTA, or who are travelling to Canada by means other than air such as by car, bus, train and boat—including by cruise ship), will still need a visitor visa.
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Get in touch with Ackah Law today to arrange a consultation and discover more about how we can assist you in travelling or immigrating to Canada. Ackah Business Immigration Law is a full-service immigration law firm catering to businesses and individuals, with offices in Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver. Contact Ackah Law today at (403) 452-9515 or email us directly at contact@ackahlaw.com.
