In addition to the two African countries, residents of Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Costa Rica, Panama, Philippines, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago and Uruguay have thus been added to the existing list of More than 50 countries are visa-free and eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), allowing you to travel to Canada for up to six months without a visa.
The change aims to facilitate travel, strengthen global ties and increase economic and tourism benefits with Canada, according to Canadian Immigration Minister Sean Fraser.
For Fraser, the expansion would allow more individuals around the world to embark on unforgettable adventures, reunite with family and immerse themselves in Canada's vibrant culture without the burden of visa requirements.
To be eligible for the eTA, applicants must have a Canadian visa within the past 10 years or hold a valid US nonimmigrant visa.
The eTA is a pre-screened entry requirement linked to a traveler's passport, valid for five years and allows multiple short stays in Canada.
Canada predicts a 20% increase in visitor numbers from these 13 countries, which could generate nearly $160 million in tourism receipts over the next decade.
