In recent years, Canada has experienced a surge in asylum claims from Mexican citizens, putting significant strain on the country’s asylum system, housing, and social services. In 2023 alone, asylum claims from Mexicans accounted for a staggering 17% of all claims globally, indicating a dramatic rise since the lifting of the visa requirement in 2016. However, approximately 60% of these claims were either rejected or withdrawn by the applicants. To address these challenges and streamline immigration processes, Canada has implemented new requirements for Mexican citizens traveling to Canada.
Effective immediately, all Electronic Travel Authorizations (eTAs) issued to Mexican passports before February 29, 2024, will be invalidated, except for those linked to passports with a valid Canadian work or study permit. This means that Mexican citizens without a valid work or study permit will need to apply for a visitor visa or reapply for a new eTA if eligible.
However, Mexican citizens holding valid work or study permits can still travel to Canada with their existing eTA, provided it remains valid. Additionally, visitors already in Canada on an eTA can stay for up to six months from their arrival date. Yet, if they plan to leave and return to Canada, they must ensure they have the necessary travel documents.
To summarize ➤
What is changing?
Starting at 11:30 p.m. ET on February 29, 2024,
- you will need to meet new requirements to be eligible for an eTA
- if you already have an eTA, it will automatically be cancelled unless you also have a valid work or study permit
- if you have an eTA application in progress, you will need to apply for a new eTA or for a visitor visa
- before you travel to Canada, you will need to apply for a new eTA (if eligible)
- if you’re not eligible for an eTA anymore, you will need to apply for a visitor visa to travel to Canada
Who can apply for an eTA under the new rules
You’re eligible for an eTA if you meet all of these 3 requirements:
- You’re using a valid Mexican passport to fly to Canada or to transit through a Canadian airport to another destination.
- You’re coming to Canada for a short visit (normally for stays of up to 6 months).
- You either
- have held a Canadian visitor visa (temporary resident visa) in the past 10 years or
- currently hold a valid United States nonimmigrant visa
An eTA is for air travel only. Even if you are eligible for an eTA, you need a visitor visa if you plan to travel to Canada by car, bus, train or boat, including a cruise ship (even if you don’t leave the ship).
For those unsure of their eligibility or required documentation, it’s essential to seek guidance and clarification from relevant authorities before planning their trip to Canada. Book a consultation with a regulated Canadian immigration consultant when in doubt.
Stay updated for further developments on Canada’s immigration policies and ensure you have the correct documentation for your travel plans to Canada!
Source: Canada.ca
