ICYMI: Filipino Families Can Now Travel to Canada Without a Visa
Filipino families who wish to visit Canada can now do so without a visa thanks to their expanded visa-free travel program.
Canada recently announced 13 countries who are now part of their expanded visa-free travel program — and this includes the Philippines. Filipinos who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa (READ: Minors 14 Years Old and Under Are Eligible for US Visa Dropbox) are eligible to apply for an electronic travel authorization or eTA instead of a visa when traveling to Canada by air as a tourist.
“This exciting development means that more individuals from the Philippines can now embark on unforgettable adventures, explore our diverse landscapes, reunite with family and friends, and immerse themselves in our vibrant culture without the hurdle of visa requirements,” said Sean Fraser, Minister for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. “This expansion not only enhances convenience for travellers. It will also increase travel, tourism, and economic benefits, as well as strengthen our bond with the Philippines.”
A boost in tourism
The initiative supports Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy. This aims to strengthen relations and invest in people-to-people ties between Canada and the Indo-Pacific region, including the Philippines, according to Canadian Foreign Minister, Melanie Joly.
“We’re making it easier for more people to visit Canada, whether they’re coming to do business, sightsee, or reunite with family and friends. 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,” Joly said.
“Canada values our relationship with the Philippines. With the well-established Filipino diaspora in Canada, along with an increasing number of students and tourists from the Philippines, we recognize the importance of expanding and simplifying travel between our countries,” the embassy said.
A growing friendship and trust between Canada and the Philippines
Manila happily welcomed Canada’s announcement! “The new policy is expected to spur travel, stimulate more business opportunities, and foster greater interest for family reunification efforts,” the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
“The Philippines considers Canada as a close partner due to its well-established people-to-people ties and looks forward to charting a new era of engagement under this new policy.”
How to apply for an eTA
Canadian officials use the eTA application to conduct light-touch, pre-travel screening of air travelers. It only costs CAN$ 7 (about PHP 300) to apply, and most applications are automatically approved within minutes! Most applications are also granted up to five years before the eTA needs to be renewed.
To apply for an eTA, Filipinos only need a valid passport, a credit card, an email address, and access to the Internet. Those who wish to apply because they have a valid United States non-immigrant visa will need to have their US visa ready as well.
From mountains and glaciers to secluded lakes and forests, Canada has a natural beauty that is truly unparalleled. They’re also one of the cleanest, safest, and friendliest in the world. Filipino families will definitely enjoy visiting the country now that they can without a visa!
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