07/06/2023
CANADA OPENS VISA-FREE TRAVEL TO ELIGIBLE FILIPINOS
Canada opens more opportunities for visa-free travel to eligible citizens from the Philippines.
Through its page, the Canadian embassy announced that its government has added the Philippines into its list of countries under the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) program.
“Canada is pleased to announce the addition of the Philippines to the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) program. Citizens from the Philippines who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa can now apply for an eTA, instead of a visa, when traveling to Canada by air,” it said.
Eligible Filipinos under the program may enjoy up to six months of stay in Canada for either business or leisure.
The Embassy said Filipinos who already have a valid visa can continue to use it to travel to Canada. Meanwhile, those who are not eligible for an eTA, or who are traveling to Canada by means other than air will still need a visitor visa.
“This expansion not only enhances convenience for travelers; it will also increase travel, tourism and economic benefits, as well as strengthen our bond with the Philippines,” said Sean Fraser, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
“Expanding the eTA program to include countries like the Philippines is also an important part of our Indo-Pacific Strategy, as we look to further engage in the region, build on people-to-people ties, and make travel to Canada easier, faster and safer for everyone,” added Mélanie Joly, Canada’s Minister of Global Affairs.
Currently, visa-free travel is offered only to Filipino nationals flying through Canada on their way to or from the US under the Canada’s Transit Without Visa program.
Also, those who are applying to study in Canada may avail of the expedited study permit processing under the Student Direct Stream.
To find out more about the eTA program, travelers can visit Canada.ca/etA. - mnp
