Canada is known for its openness, multiculturalism, and traveler-friendly policies. In recent years, the Canadian government has taken steps to simplify entry procedures for select international travelers through visa waivers or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). As of 2025, travelers from several Asian countries can now visit Canada visa-free or with an eTA, making travel more accessible for tourism, short business trips, or visiting family.
In this blog, we explore the 10 Asian countries that currently benefit from visa-free access or simplified eTA entry to Canada, who qualifies, and what travelers need to know before they pack their bags.
What Is Visa-Free or eTA Travel to Canada?
Before we dive into the list, let’s clarify what visa-free travel means.
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Visa-free: You do not need a visa to enter Canada if you meet specific conditions.
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eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization): A quick, online travel permit required for visa-exempt nationals arriving by air.
For many Asian travelers, Canada offers visa-free travel if they have previously held a Canadian visa or currently hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa. These travelers can apply for an eTA instead of a full visa, saving both time and money.
10 Asian Countries Eligible for Visa-Free or eTA Entry to Canada (2025)
Here’s a list of countries whose nationals may travel to Canada visa-free or under the eTA system, subject to conditions.
1. Philippines
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Eligible for eTA if the traveler held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or currently holds a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa.
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eTA is required for air travel.
2. Thailand
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Thai nationals can apply for eTA if they meet the same criteria: past Canadian visa or current U.S. visa.
3. Indonesia
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Indonesian travelers benefit from the eTA program under the same visa history conditions.
4. Vietnam
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Citizens of Vietnam are eligible for an eTA under Canada’s expanded travel facilitation initiative (with valid travel history).
5. Malaysia
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Malaysian passport holders who meet the criteria can now apply for an eTA to visit Canada.
6. India
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Indian citizens with a valid U.S. visa or Canadian visa issued in the last 10 years can travel using an eTA.
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Not visa-free for all Indian passport holders — must meet travel history conditions.
7. Taiwan
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Taiwanese passport holders with a personal identification number (PIN) on their passport are already visa-exempt for short visits.
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Still require eTA when flying to Canada.
8. South Korea
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South Korean citizens do not need a visa and only need to apply for an eTA.
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Considered a fully visa-exempt country.
9. Singapore
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Singaporean passport holders enjoy visa-free access to Canada for short stays.
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Only an eTA is needed when traveling by air.
10. Japan
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Japan is a long-standing visa-exempt country.
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Travelers need an eTA if arriving by air, but no visa is required for visits under 6 months.
Benefits of Visa-Free or eTA Entry
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No embassy visits or interviews
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Lower application costs (eTA costs only 7 CAD)
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Faster approvals, usually within minutes to a few hours
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Greater travel flexibility for students, businesspeople, and families
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Improved tourism and cultural exchange with Canada
Eligibility Criteria: Do You Qualify?
To qualify for an eTA instead of a visa, you usually must:
✅ Be a citizen of one of the listed countries
✅ Have held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or currently hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa
✅ Travel to Canada by air (eTA is not valid for land or sea entry)
✅ Have a valid biometric passport
👉 Check your eligibility on the official Canadian immigration site or consult with a visa expert like SchoolingVisa.
How to Apply for an eTA
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Visit the official Government of Canada eTA site
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Complete the online application
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Pay the CAD 7 fee
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Wait for approval (usually minutes to 72 hours)
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Get your eTA linked to your passport
Travel Tips for Visa-Free Visitors to Canada
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Keep your return ticket & travel plans handy for immigration questioning
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Get travel insurance for medical emergencies
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Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months
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Don’t overstay — eTA allows visits up to 6 months only
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Avoid working or studying without the proper permits
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Asian Travelers to Canada
This expansion of visa-free or eTA eligibility reflects Canada’s commitment to building stronger ties with Asian countries. Whether you’re visiting Niagara Falls, studying in Toronto, or exploring Vancouver’s vibrant neighborhoods, the journey has never been easier.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, or want help with your study permit, work visa, or visitor visa, the experts at GlobalVisaNet are here to help you navigate every step.
