Canada Expands Visa-Free Travel to the Philippines: Here’s What You Need to Know

Filipinos now have a compelling reason to plan that long-awaited trip to Canada. In a major update, the Canadian government has officially expanded its visa-free travel programme, now including the Philippines and 12 other countries under the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system.

The announcement, made by Sean Fraser, Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, aims to boost tourism, strengthen diplomatic ties, and reduce visa processing times for all travellers.

CN Tower, Toronto | Burst via Pexels

This new development opens doors not only to stunning destinations like Banff National Park, Niagara Falls, and Toronto, but also to opportunities for cultural exchange, family visits, and business networking.

Also read: Want to Migrate to Canada? Here Are the 12 Best Cities to Live in

Countries eligible for visa-free air travel to Canada:

• Philippines

• Morocco

• Panama

• Antigua and Barbuda

• St. Kitts and Nevis

• St. Lucia

• St. Vincent and the Grenadines

• Trinidad and Tobago

• Argentina

• Costa Rica

• Uruguay

• Seychelles

• Thailand

How can Filipinos apply for Canada visa-free travel through eTA?

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Filipino travellers can now apply for a Canada eTA visa online, a faster and more convenient alternative to the traditional visitor visa. But before you book your flight, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria.

To qualify for visa-free travel under the eTA system, you must:

• Have held a Canadian Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) in the past 10 years, or

• Hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa

This programme only applies to those arriving by air and is limited to travel for tourism or business, for stays of up to six months. Travellers entering Canada by land or sea—such as by car, train, or cruise—will still need a visitor visa.

What you’ll need to apply:

• A valid Philippine passport

• A working email address

• Internet access

• A credit or debit card for the CAD$7 application fee (approximately PHP 300)

Most applications are processed within minutes, making it a hassle-free way to visit Canada. To apply, go to Canada.ca/eTA and follow the simple steps.

Also read: How to Get a Canadian Tourist Visa for Filipinos

A game-changer for Filipino travellers to Canada

Canada’s decision to include the Philippines in its visa-free eTA programme is a significant step forward for Filipino globetrotters. Whether you’re exploring the Canadian wilderness, reconnecting with loved ones, or pursuing business opportunities, this move makes travel simpler, faster, and more affordable.

With the new Canada eTA for Filipinos, there’s no better time to plan your trip. From vibrant cities like Vancouver and Montreal to the awe-inspiring Canadian Rockies, Canada is ready to welcome Filipino travellers—no visa required!