Changes to eTa and visitor visas for mexican citizens traveling to Canada

Attention, Mexican citizens, the requirements for electronic travel authorizations (eTA) and visitor visas were modified as of 23:30 (Eastern Time) on Thursday, February 29, 2024, so new measures are now in effect that will affect the procedures for those who plan to travel to Canada and require such document. This is one of the most recent news released by the IRCC, specifically for Mexicans, so it is crucial to be well informed in order to avoid inconveniences during the application process.

In our Immiland Canada blog, we publish daily immigration content about the most recent events in the Canadian environment and the Minister Miller's decisions so that our clients and users in general are updated and have a truthful and timely information line about the new changes, that is why we dedicate this article to the eTA and the visitor visa, an entry and travel requirement for Mexican citizens flying to Canada for short stays (up to 6 months), and we handle it as a FAQ so that it is much better understood.

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What are the main changes?

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As of the aforementioned date and time, Mexican travelers should be aware of the following changes:

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• There are now new requirements for obtaining the eTA, as updated criteria for the process are established.
• Those who have an eTA prior to the announcement will have it automatically cancelled unless they have a valid work or study permit, and if they have a pending eTA application, they will need to apply for a new eTA or visitor visa. Before traveling to Canada, you must apply for a new eTA (if eligible),
• If they do not qualify for an eTA, they will have to apply for a visitor's visa to travel to Canada.

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What are the requirements to apply for an eTA under the new rules?

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Mexican citizens eligible for an eTA will henceforth be those who meet the following 3 requirements:

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1. They are using a valid Mexican passport to fly to Canada or to make a stopover at a Canadian airport to another destination.
2. They come to Canada for a short visit (usually for stays of up to 6 months).
3. Those who have held a Canadian visitor visa (temporary resident visa) within the last 10 years or currently hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa.

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What is the current eTA automatic cancellation process?

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It is very simple, from the date of the change, February 29, 2024, at 23:30 (Eastern time) your eTA was automatically cancelled, unless you have a work or study permit in force. It should be noted that this cancellation affects more than 1.4 million Mexican citizens who had their electronic card, in fact, if you have an application in process, then you will have to apply for a new eTA or a visitor's visa.

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What will happen to Mexican citizens who want to travel to Canada?

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Provided they meet the new requirements, prior to their travel to Canada, they must make a new eTA application.

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Does having a pre-booking guarantee approval?

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It is unfortunate to state, but no, the travel reservation or previous valid eTA does not guarantee approval of a new eTA or visa. This adjustment is the equivalent of going through the process from scratch.

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When can you apply for a new eTA?

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According to official information from the IRCC, the eTa can be applied for from February 29, 2024 at 11:30 (Eastern Time) minutes of the night onwards (no earlier than that time). Here are some important points to keep in mind:

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• Visitor visa applications made before that time will not be processed.
• If you reapplied for an eTA before that time, it was cancelled as of 11:30 p.m. EST and will not be valid for travel.
• If you do not have an immediate travel plan for Canada, we recommend that you wait to apply for your eTA, we know how long an immigration process can take, so it is always best to free up the application system so that it is available for those who do need it urgently.

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What impact will this change have on visitors?

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The impact on visitors, tourists or short-stay students will be reflected in each case as follows:

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• As previous eTAs or applications prior to the aforementioned deadline are invalidated, Mexican nationals will see a delay in their travel plans.
• For the same reason, you should take your precautions regarding the rest of the steps required for travel, i.e., carefully check the expiration date of your documents, for example, your passport, flight date, among others.
• They must apply for a new eTA or visitor visa after February 29, 2024, at 23:30 (Eastern Time).

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How is the eTA application process performed?

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The first thing is always to verify the validity and validity of your documents, so here are some simple steps to apply for your eTA::

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• Verify that your Mexican passport is valid and current.
• Have a planned visit to Canada for a short period of time (up to six months).
• Have a Canadian visitor visa within the last 10 years or a U.S. non-immigrant visa.
• Once you have verified these requirements, you can go to the Canadian government's online page to fill out the form and submit it. At Immiland, we have regulated advisors who can guide you through the process. If you have any questions, you can schedule a consultation or request a free evaluation.

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What considerations should you take into account when traveling to Canada with an eTA and a visitor visa?

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• Please note that the eTA is only valid for air travel.
• In addition, if traveling by other means, a visitor's visa will be required.
• For future trips, you should check the processing times and, if it is urgent, indicate it in the request.
• Urgent requests are not guaranteed.

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When is a visitor's visa required?

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A visitor visa is required if you do not meet the requirements for an eTA. The cost of a visitor's visa is 100 Canadian dollars and involves possible additional fees.

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How does this new change impact other situations?

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• For citizens in Canada without study or work permits, the eTA will be cancelled and a visa or a new eTA will be required.
• For work and study permit holders, the eTA will remain valid if you have a valid permit.
• For dual citizenship, there are specific requirements depending on the situation.
• For legal permanent residents of the United States, no visa or eTA is required, only a green card and a valid passport.

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At Immiland Canada, we are very attentive to the changes established by the IRCC to inform you in a timely manner and avoid problems when traveling. It is essential that Mexican citizens are aware of these adjustments and plan their stay in Canada in advance, as this year 2024 has come with new measures for foreigners who are outside of Canadian territory and must follow the correct procedures to ensure a smooth application process and a successful travel experience. 

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Remember that we are regulated consultants and we work with all types of visas. If you wish to process your visa with Immiland, please write to Info@immilandcanada.com and we will get back to you soon.

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Have a good trip!

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With love,

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Immiland

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