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CANADA: Government Lifts Visa Requirement for Certain Nationals
April 24, 2017
From 1st May 2017, nationals of Brazil, Bulgaria and Romania will be able to enter Canada with an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) rather than a visa, if:
- They have held a Canadian visa at any time in the ten years preceding their travel, or
- They have held a US non-immigrant visa at any time.
From 1st December 2017, for Bulgarians and Romanians, the use of eTAs rather than visas will be broadened to include all nationals of those countries (with or without prior Canadian or US visas).
Visa-exempt foreign nationals are expected to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) via the online registration system, to fly to or transit through Canada. eTAs are valid for five years, or until the expiration date of a passport, whichever comes first.
The eTA requirement does not apply to citizens of the United States (US) but US permanent residents, or green card holders, do require the online authorisation. The eTA is not required if a person is entering at a land or sea port of entry. A list of nationalities requiring an eTA is available here.
Our advice
Companies should ensure that qualifying employees of Brazilian, Bulgarian, or Romanian nationality travelling to Canada from 1st May 2017 obtain an eTA.
If you require any additional advice regarding the above please contact a member of our team at [email protected].
