Key Takeaways:
- Recent policy change: Mexican citizens now need visitor visas for Canada due to increased asylum claims, effective organization.
- Specific visa conditions: Air travel, short stays, past visas or valid US visa qualify for visitor visas.
- Impact and process: Existing eTAs are canceled, work/study permit holders retain eTAs; new permits trigger auto visa/eTA issuance.
As of February 29, 2024, a recent update in Canada’s immigration policy necessitates that some Mexican citizens will now require a visa to enter Canada temporarily. This marks a significant change from the previous arrangement which allowed all Mexican nationals to enter Canada with just an electronic travel authorization (eTA). This adjustment is directly linked to the rise in asylum claimants from Mexico and is part of Canada’s effort to manage its immigration and refugee system effectively.
Understanding Who Needs a Canada Visa Now
This new Canada visa requirement specifies that Mexican citizens will now need to apply for a visitor visa to enter Canada unless they meet three specific conditions:
- They are arriving in Canada by air or flying to Canada to transit to another destination.
- Their visit to Canada is short-term, typically for stays up to six months.
- They have either held a Canadian visitor visa or other types of temporary resident visas in the past 10 years, or they possess a valid United States nonimmigrant visa at the time of application and travel.
It’s important to note that temporary resident visas encompass visitor, work, and study permit-related visas.
What About Those with an Existing eTA?
For Mexican travelers who had an eTA before 11:30 pm EST on February 29th, 2024, there’s a crucial point to remember. These eTAs will be canceled, necessitating these individuals to apply for a new visitor visa. This is pivotal for those who had previously relied on the convenience of an eTA for their Canadian visits.
Impact on Mexicans Currently in Canada
Mexican visitors or temporary residents (those without a study or work permit) in Canada as of the cut-off will continue to be permissible for the duration previously approved. However, should these individuals wish to re-enter Canada after exiting, an application for a visitor visa or a new eTA, should they meet all eligibility criteria, will be required.
Conversely, Mexicans in Canada on a valid work or study permit will retain their eTAs. This ensures minimal disruption for those in Canada for educational or employment reasons. Moreover, upon approval of a new study or work permit, these individuals will automatically receive a visa or eTA based on their eligibility, without needing a separate application.
How Does One Travel to Canada Now?
Even with a valid eTA, anyone planning to travel to Canada via car, bus, train, or boat will require a valid visitor visa. This includes passengers on a cruise, indicating that the method of arrival in Canada significantly dictates the type of travel documentation required.
Reactivating a Canceled eTA
For individuals with a valid study or work permit at the time their eTA was canceled, there exists a potential for reactivation. This process involves sending a web form request to Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), ensuring all fields are completed and including the code “EMVR2024” in the request. Should reactivation not be possible, a new application for an eTA or visitor visa, adhering to the new guidelines, will be necessary.
The Path Forward for Mexican Nationals
Navigating these changes can be daunting, but understanding the new requirements is the first step toward compliance. Mexican citizens contemplating a visit to Canada should review the latest information provided by IRCC to ensure they’re prepared for their travel.
This policy adjustment underscores Canada’s commitment to maintaining an organized immigration system while addressing the uptick in asylum claims. It also illustrates the dynamic nature of global travel regulations and the importance of staying informed about the latest immigration policies affecting your travel plans.
For Mexican nationals affected by these changes, staying informed and prepared will be key to ensuring smooth travel to Canada in the future. Whether it’s applying for a new visa or understanding how existing permits and authorizations are impacted, knowing the ins and outs of these regulations will help avoid any travel disruptions.
This Article In A Nutshell:
Recent Canada immigration policy changes now require Mexican citizens to obtain a visitor visa for short visits, excluding eTA holders before Feb. 29, 2024. An essential read for travelers on visa requirements, traveler’s status, and potentially canceled eTAs. Stay informed via IRCC for smooth travel and embrace the evolving immigration landscape.
