Canada has announced visa-free entry for citizens of 13 countries, marking a major shift in its travel and tourism policy. The move is aimed at promoting tourism, easing short-term travel, and strengthening diplomatic relations, particularly with Caribbean and Latin American nations.
Under the new policy, eligible travelers from selected countries will be allowed to enter Canada without a traditional visa, provided they meet specific conditions set by Canadian immigration authorities.
Countries Included in Canada’s Visa-Free Entry List
The newly approved visa-free countries include:
Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, Philippines, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Seychelles, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay.
Officials highlighted that five Caribbean nations are part of this list, calling the decision a positive diplomatic development for Canada’s regional partnerships.
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Expanded eTA Program for Short-Term Visits
Alongside visa-free entry, Canada has expanded its Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) program to cover travelers from these countries. The eTA is a digital travel authorization required for visa-exempt nationals entering Canada by air for short stays of up to six months.
To qualify, travelers must:
- Be arriving by air
- Have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years, or
- Currently possess a valid US non-immigrant visa
Eligible visitors can stay in Canada for up to six months without obtaining a separate visa, as long as they secure an approved eTA before travel.
Canada’s Objective Behind the Decision
The Canadian government stated that the policy aims to:
- Boost international tourism
- Simplify travel procedures
- Enhance global mobility
- Strengthen diplomatic and economic ties
Authorities believe the initiative will make Canada more attractive to global travelers while maintaining border security through digital pre-screening.
