Many countries are now offering only electronic visas. At the moment, Canada is still issuing physical visas, but there are plans to switch to a total electronic system.
What are the reasons for this change?
The Canadian immigration service (IRCC) has stated that the use of a digital system for applying for and issuing visas would be beneficial both for travellers and the Canadian government. Travellers would no longer need to bring their passports to the embassy to have a visa sticker affixed. Visa applications could be processed faster and the application procedure would be more user-friendly. Applicants would be able to complete the entire procedure from home.
For the Canadian government, a digital system would enable a better overview of travellers and enhanced security.
Test phase starting in Morocco
The Canadian government will conduct a pilot project for the new system in Morocco. The immigration service expects this test can provide information and experience for a future transition to a digital visa system. Based on the results of the pilot phase, the Canadian immigration service will create a series of visas offering both high security and ease of application. Travellers' imput will also be taken into account, and adjustments will be made to avoid any potential problems or complicated procedures before a large-scale rollout.
It is also important that communication with the airlines runs smoothly. The reason for this is that they are the ones in charge to check if all passengers have a valid visa for their destination.
The eTA Canada will remain
The project to introduce a digital visa system in Canada will not affect the eTA Canada. Officially, the eTA is not a visa, but a travel authorisation for travellers who do not need a visa to travel to Canada. Travellers who are eligible for an eTA will still be able to travel to Canada with an eTA in the future.
The planned digitisation of the visa system will only affect physical visa types that at the moment must be applied for in person.
Applying for an eTA Canada
Many countries use the eTA Canada. Most European countries are eligible for this travel authorisation. The application process takes place entirely online. On this website, you can use an application form with clear explanations. You do not need to submit any documents or photographs in order to apply. After your application has been submitted, you will receive your eTA after 3 days on average. You can also submit an urgent application. In this case, you will receive your eTA Canada within an average of 45 minutes. The eTA is valid as soon as it is approved. The maximum validity period is 5 years, and each stay in Canada may last up to 6 months. Read on to find more about the requirements and the validity.