Canada has expanded visa-free travel eligibility for citizens of Indonesia and Malaysia. Eligible travellers can now visit or transit through Canada by air using an electronic travel authorization (eTA) instead of applying for a traditional visa.
What Happened in Canada's Visa-Free Travel Expansion
The federal government announced changes to Canada's travel requirements for citizens of Indonesia and Malaysia.
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), travellers from these countries may no longer need a visa if they meet specific eligibility requirements.
The changes took effect on May 26.
Key Highlights of Canada's Visa-Free Travel Expansion
- Indonesian and Malaysian citizens may qualify for visa-free air travel to Canada
- Eligible travellers must have held a Canadian temporary resident visa within the last 10 years or currently hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa
- Qualified travellers can apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA) instead of a visa
Background of Canada's Visa-Free Travel Expansion
An eTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt travellers arriving in Canada by air.
The authorization is electronically linked to a traveller's passport and remains valid for up to five years or until the passport expires.
An eTA allows foreign nationals to stay in Canada for up to six months per visit and costs $7 per application.
Canadian officials use the eTA system to conduct pre-travel screening of air travellers.
Why This Canada's Visa-Free Travel Expansion Matters
The policy change is intended to make travel to Canada easier for eligible visitors while maintaining security screening measures.
Travellers who already underwent screening through previous Canadian visas or valid U.S. visas can benefit from a simplified entry process.
Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia, making the change significant for travel and international engagement.
Last year, Canada welcomed approximately 18,300 visitors from Indonesia and 11,500 visitors from Malaysia.
What Happens Next After Canada's Visa-Free Travel Expansion
Eligible travellers from Indonesia and Malaysia can now apply for an eTA before travelling to or transiting through Canada by air.
Canada also continues to offer similar visa-exempt travel eligibility to citizens of several other countries that meet the program requirements.
These countries include:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Brazil
- Costa Rica
- Mexico
- Morocco
- Panama
- Philippines
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- St. Lucia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Seychelles
- Thailand
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Uruguay
Common Questions About Canada's Visa-Free Travel Expansion
Who qualifies for visa-free travel under the new rules?
Citizens of Indonesia and Malaysia may qualify if they held a Canadian temporary resident visa within the last 10 years or currently hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa.
What is an eTA?
An electronic travel authorization (eTA) is a digital travel document required for eligible visa-exempt travellers arriving in Canada by air.
How much does an eTA cost?
An eTA costs $7 and can remain valid for up to five years or until the traveller's passport expires.
Related Topics
- Canada immigration policy
- International travel to Canada
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)