Canada Launches Digital Visa Pilot Project
The Canadian government has introduced a pilot project to test digital visas, aiming to simplify the visa application process by eliminating the need to send or present a passport in person. According to Canadian authorities, these visas "make travel faster, safer, and more convenient" by only requiring necessary information.
Pilot Project Details
For this test, Morocco has been chosen as the partner country. A small number of Moroccan citizens who have obtained a visitor visa may be offered a digital version of their visa, in addition to the traditional sticker. If the trial is successful, this new approach could be extended to other countries.
Simplified Entry for Certain Travelers with eTA
The Canadian government is also offering a simplified solution for certain travelers: the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This procedure allows citizens of certain countries to travel to Canada without needing a traditional visa, provided they meet specific criteria.
Who Can Apply for an eTA?
The eTA is available for travelers who:
- Have obtained a Canadian visitor visa in the last 10 years or hold a valid US visa
- Are traveling to Canada for a temporary stay (up to 6 months maximum)
- Are flying to Canada or will be transiting through a Canadian airport with a valid passport
Eligible Countries for eTA
The following countries are eligible for an eTA:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Brazil
- Costa Rica
- Mexico
- Panama
- Philippines
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Seychelles
- Thailand
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Uruguay
If these criteria are not met, travelers will need to apply for a visitor visa. This initiative aims to simplify access to Canada for air travelers from countries that require a visa.
Recent Update
Recently, citizens of Qatar have been added to the list of eligible countries. They no longer need a visitor visa and can apply for an eTA to travel to Canada.
