No, Canada is not entirely visa-free for Philippine passport holders. However, since June 2023, Philippine citizens may be eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead of a visa under certain conditions.
Who is eligible for the eTA?
- Philippine passport holders who have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years, or
- Philippine passport holders who hold a valid US non-immigrant visa (excluding border crossing cards)
Who still needs a visa?
- Philippine passport holders who do not meet the above criteria will still need to apply for a traditional visa.
- Travelers who plan to stay in Canada for longer than 6 months, work, or study will also need a visa, regardless of their eTA eligibility.
How to apply for an eTA
- You can apply online through the Government of Canada website.
- The application fee is CAD 7.00.
- Processing times can vary, but most applications are processed within 72 hours.
Important things to remember
- An eTA does not guarantee entry into Canada. Border officials can still deny entry if they believe you are inadmissible.
- You must be traveling by air to use an eTA.
- It is always a good idea to check the latest visa requirements with the Canadian government before you travel.
Here are some resources for more information:
- Government of Canada website: https://www.international.gc.ca/gac-amc/about-a_propos/services/authentication-authentification/step-etape-1.aspx?lang=eng
- Visa Guide: https://www.zawya.com/en/life/leisure-and-travel/canadas-visa-free-travel-for-filipinos-who-are-eligible-how-to-apply-for-only-5-all-you-need-to-know-nkw51jco