PETALING JAYA: Canada has expanded visa-free air travel access for eligible Malaysians with immediate effect, allowing travellers to apply for an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) instead of a traditional visa when flying to or transiting through the country.
The High Commission of Canada in Malaysia said the move reflects strengthening ties between Canada and Malaysia, helping to expand partnerships and people-to-people connections.
“Malaysian citizens who have held a Canadian temporary resident visa (TRV) within the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa may now qualify for the simplified entry process,” the High Commission said in a statement.
Under the new arrangement effective May 26 this year, eligible Malaysians travelling to or transiting through Canada by air can apply online for an eTA instead of a visa.
The eTA application costs C$7 (RM22), with most applications automatically approved within minutes after submission.
However, travellers must meet several conditions to qualify for the visa-free air travel facility.
Applicants must either have previously held a Canadian TRV within the last decade or currently possess a valid US non-immigrant visa at the time of application.
They must also be travelling to Canada for a temporary stay, usually for up to six months, and must arrive or transit through Canada by air using a valid Malaysian passport.
“The eTA is valid for up to five years or until the traveller’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
“Malaysians who already possess a valid TRV can continue using the document to travel to Canada,” the statement said.
The High Commission also stressed that the eTA only applies to air travel, meaning travellers entering Canada through land or sea routes may still require a visa depending on their eligibility and travel circumstances.
