If you want to visit Canada but don’t need a visa, you must meet specific requirements based on your nationality, travel purpose, and mode of entry. Here’s everything you need to know about visa-free travel to Canada.
1. Who Can Travel to Canada Without a Visa?
Citizens of visa-exempt countries can travel to Canada for tourism, business, or transit without a visa. Instead, they may need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or other entry documents.
A. Visa-Exempt Countries
The following travelers do not need a visa to enter Canada but must get an eTA if arriving by air:
✔ United Kingdom
✔ European Union (Schengen Area) – France, Germany, Spain, Italy, etc.
✔ Australia & New Zealand
✔ Japan, South Korea, Singapore
✔ Mexico (for air travel only)
Check the full list of visa-exempt countries on the official Government of Canada website.
B. U.S. Citizens & Green Card Holders
✔ U.S. citizens do not need a visa or eTA to enter Canada. A valid U.S. passport is required.
✔ U.S. Green Card holders need an eTA if arriving by air but can enter with a valid Green Card by land or sea.
C. Travelers with a Canadian or U.S. Visa
✔ If you hold a valid Canadian visa, you do not need an eTA.
✔ If you have a valid U.S. visa, you may qualify for visa-free transit through Canada under certain conditions.
2. What Is an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)?
An eTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt travelers arriving by air. It is linked to your passport and valid for up to five years or until your passport expires.
How to Apply for an eTA
✔ Apply online through the official Canada eTA website.
✔ Fee: $7 CAD
✔ Processing time: A few minutes to a few days
✔ Documents needed: Valid passport, email address, and payment method
3. Entry Requirements for Visa-Free Travelers
Even if you don’t need a visa, you must:
✔ Have a valid passport (with at least six months’ validity)
✔ Show proof of sufficient funds for your stay
✔ Have a return ticket or onward travel plans
✔ Provide details about your visit purpose (tourism, business, transit)
✔ Be in good health (medical exam may be required in some cases)
✔ Not have a criminal record or security risk
4. Can You Work or Study Without a Visa?
✔ No. Visa-free travelers cannot work or study in Canada without a work permit or study permit.