On May 26, 2026, Canada simplified entry requirements for residents of Indonesia and Malaysia. Eligible travelers from these countries can now apply for an expedited electronic travel authorization (eTA) as an alternative of a standard tourist visa when flying to Canada.
An electronic travel authorization (eTA) is a digital travel authorization that permits travelers to enter certain countries for tourism, business or other short-term stays with no “traditional” visa.
This fundamental change makes international travel rather more accessible, inexpensive and efficient for hundreds of individuals in Indonesia and Malaysia. This also eliminates the necessity for lengthy documents and in-person meetings.
Strengthening economic and diplomatic relations
Canada is actively working to strengthen its economic and diplomatic relations with the Indo-Pacific region. This area stays one among the fastest growing economic zones on the planet.
Indonesia and Malaysia are seen as vital economic partners throughout the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). By expanding visa-free air travel under the eTA program, the Government of Canada goals to diversify its trading partners and support a more resilient global economy.
The foremost goal of this initiative is to enhance people-to-people contacts and significantly facilitate access to Canadian markets for business travelers. Canada hopes that by improving international travel, the country will give you the option to draw the world’s best talent, support innovation and create recent economic opportunities for each Canadian staff and businesses. This update is a direct component of Canada’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy.
Who qualifies for eTA?
It is essential to know that the eTA program just isn’t available to each passport holder. To qualify for an eTA as an alternative of a regular tourist visa, travelers must meet two strict requirements:
- Travel way: Entry into Canada have to be by air. Anyone planning to enter the country by automobile, bus, train or ship (including cruise ships) must still apply for a tourist visa.
- Trip history: Applicants will need to have held a Canadian tourist visa (temporary resident visa) throughout the last 10 years or currently hold a sound nonimmigrant visa to the United States on the time of application.
These particular travelers are considered “known” in Canada because they’ve already passed a background check by Canadian or U.S. immigration authorities.
Anyone who doesn’t meet these exact conditions must still apply for a regular tourist visa. Furthermore, eTA is barely intended for tourism, family visits or short-term business trips. Separate study or work permits are still required for these specific purposes.
What you’ll want to prepare
The official processing fee for eTA is barely CAN$7. However, please note that this low-cost fee is totally non-refundable, even in case your application is ultimately rejected.
Before starting to finish the official online application form, applicants should prepare the next to avoid delays:
- Valid passport from Indonesia or Malaysia.
- A sound email address in order that the Government of Canada can send final results.
- Acceptable digital payment method covering a fee of CAN$7. The online system accepts several cards, including Visa, Mastercard and American Express (including prepaid versions), in addition to Visa Debit, Debit Mastercard, UnionPay or JCB Card.
Application process
The application process is totally digital and designed to be user-friendly. However, the net portal doesn’t allow applicants to avoid wasting their progress, which implies the complete form have to be accomplished in a single session.
- Collect your passport, bank card and browse any official support documents.
- Complete the net form. Although the appliance form itself is barely available in English and French, helpful instructional guides can be found in lots of other languages to help international applicants.
- After completing the shape, you could pay the CAN$7 fee via a secure portal.
- The overwhelming majority of applicants will receive their official approval email inside just a number of minutes.
- In rare situations, immigration officers may ask for extra documentation. If this happens, an email with detailed instructions shall be sent inside 72 hours.
Additionally, Canada stays deeply committed to frame security. An approved eTA doesn’t mechanically guarantee entry into the country. Upon arrival at a Canadian airport, travelers must proceed to undergo standard security and admissibility screening by border officials.
The Government of Canada recently upgraded its inspection systems and fraud detection methods to guard the integrity of its immigration system. Additionally, Canada has the legal authority to cancel eTAs, visas or permits in certain circumstances to make sure public safety. This balanced approach allows easier entry for legal visitors while ensuring border security.
