In response to a surge in asylum claims from Mexico, Canada has implemented new travel requirements, mandating some Mexican citizens to obtain a visitor visa for temporary entry into the country.

This change, Effective February 29, 2024, alters the previous system, under which all Mexican
citizens were eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Canada.
The decision to reinstate visitor visas for Mexicans stems from observations by Immigration,
Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) of increased asylum claims from Mexican citizens,
many of which were declined, withdrawn, or abandoned.

This measure aims to balance the mobility needs of thousands of Mexicans with the imperative
to uphold the efficiency of Canada’s immigration and asylum systems.
Who Needs a Visitor Visa?

All Mexican citizens now require a visitor visa to enter Canada, except if they meet the following criteria:

• They arrive in Canada via air travel or transit through Canada to another destination by air.
• Their visit is short-term, typically up to six months.
• They either:
• Have held a Canadian visitor visa (or another type of temporary resident visa) within the past ten years or
• Possess a valid United States nonimmigrant visa at the time of application and travel.

Mexican travelers should be aware that any previously held ETAs issued before 11:30 pm EST
on February 29, 2024, are now invalidated, necessitating the application for a new permit if they
no longer qualify for an ETA under the new regulations.
Impact on Current Visitors in Canada

Temporary residents in Canada without study or work permits linked to their stay can remain in
the country for the duration authorized, but their ETAs are invalidated. If they plan to re-enter
Canada, they must apply for a visitor visa or a new ETA if they meet eligibility criteria.
Effect on Mexicans with Work or Study Permits

Mexican citizens with valid study or work permits in Canada will retain their existing ETAs. As
long as they remain valid, they can continue using them for travel. Upon approval of a new work
or study permit application, they will automatically receive a visa or ETA, depending on
eligibility.

It’s important to note that an ETA is only valid for air travel. If traveling to Canada by other
means, individuals must obtain a visitor visa.

Planning a Trip to Canada?

Mexican travelers should check the government’s website to determine their visa requirements
for travel to Canada. Their visa is no longer valid if they possess or applied for an ETA before the
specified deadline.

Before traveling, they must apply for and receive approval for a new ETA under the updated
regulations or obtain a visitor visa if they meet the government’s eligibility criteria.