Important Update: Discover the New Canada Visa Requirements for Mexicans

Attention Mexican tourists and business enthusiasts! We are here with the latest updates that have brought significant changes to the Canadian visa requirements for Mexican citizens. Earlier, Mexicans used to enjoy visa-free entry. Around February of this year, the government declared an update about Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) and Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for entry into Canada. Are you planning to visit Canada? This blog is here to provide a comprehensive overview of these new regulations and how they may impact your upcoming vocational trip or business visit.

Understanding the Shift: What the Change Evolved for Mexicans to Apply for the Canada Visa?

The primary reason the Canadian government implemented these new Canadian visa requirements was to streamline the entry procedures and enhance the position of border security. As the Canadian government is trying to manage the immigration flow and tackle national security concerns, this implemented change aligns swiftly with the ongoing efforts of the government. Traditionally, visa-free entry gave the Mexicans free access. However, the increasing number of asylum claims has prompted the Canadian government to take more decisive actions in this regard and, thus, the new implementation.

Who Can Still Apply For a Visa-Free Entry in Canada?

Here's some good news for some Mexican travelers. You may still be eligible for visa-free entry under certain circumstances. Exemptions apply to:

  • Do you hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa, for example B1 or B2? That's great. It will enable you to enter Canada via air without obtaining a separated Canadian visa.
  • Your existing Canadian work or study permit as authorized by the Canadian government, will also remain valid for specific travel purposes.
  • If you hold dual Mexican-Canadian citizenship, a valid Canadian passport will suffice for entry.

What are the New Canadian Visa Requirements for Mexican Citizens?

For Mexican citizens who do not qualify under the exemptions as mentioned above, it becomes mandatory for them to obtain a Canadian visa. This is mainly for two primary reasons:

Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)

This visa revolves around a various range of travel purposes, that can include business visas, medical treatment and tourism. Applying for this visa practically involves submission of an application package, attending an interview, and paying the processing fee. However, the processing time may vary in respect to individual circumstances.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Canada eTA is one of the most common and popular online authorization that can streamline the entry for short-term visit to Canada for business, tourism or transit purposes. This option is much easier and faster than the TRV and the online visa application experts can help you better in getting the application done meeting the eligibility requirements and the implied terms and conditions.

Canadian and Mexican Consulates

Embassy of Mexico in Canada

45 O'Connor St. Suite 1000
Ottawa
Ontario
K1P 1A4

Canadian Embassy in Mexico City

Calle Schiller No. 529
Colonia Polanco
11580 Mexico, D.F.
Mexico

READ MORE:
Can you work in Canada on an eTA? Find out the requirements and limitations for employment with this electronic visa and why you need a work permit or visa. Learn more at Working in Canada on an eTA.


Check your eligibility for eTA Canada Visa and apply for eTA Canada Visa 72 hours in advance of your flight. In addition to Mexican citizens, British citizens, New Zealand citizens, Polish citizens, Croatian citizens and Slovenian citizens can apply online for eTA Canada Visa.