#Visa Update

Recent news and social media posts claim that Canada is now visa-free for Philippine passport holders. This does not mean that all Filipinos can enter Canada without a visa. Filipino travelers may apply for a Canadian eTA instead of a regular tourist visa only if they meet at least one of the following requirements: They have held a Canadian visitor (tourist) visa within the last 10 years, OR They currently hold a valid U.S. tourist visa) The eTA is applicable only when flying to Canada and is typically faster and cheaper than applying for a traditional visa. If you do not meet the requirements above, you must still apply for a regular Canadian tourist visa (Temporary Resident Visa). Additionally, travelers entering Canada by land or sea are not eligible to use an eTA and will still need a visa. Why this is being called “visa-free” The term “visa-free” is being used loosely. In reality, this update allows qualified Filipinos to travel using an online authorization (eTA) instead of going through the full visa application process, but it is not automatic or universal. Read more in our articles including "Canada is not fully visa-free for Filipinos" and "realme C100, C100i now official, specs and price in the Philippines".