Canada has announced a significant easing of entry requirements for citizens of Indonesia and Malaysia. Starting May 26, 2026, at 5:30 a.m.
Qualifying nationals from these two Southeast Asian countries can travel to or transit through Canada by air using an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead of applying for a full visitor visa.
This change marks another step in Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy to strengthen economic ties, trade, and people-to-people connections with key partners in the region.
Who Qualifies for the New eTA Option?
Not all citizens of Indonesia and Malaysia will automatically benefit. The new policy applies only to those who meet specific “known traveller” criteria. Eligible individuals include those who:
- Held a Canadian Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) at any point in the last 10 years (this includes previous visitor visas, work permits, or study permits).
- Currently hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa (such as a B-1/B-2, F-1, H-1B, or similar).
These conditions ensure that applicants have already undergone security screening by either Canadian or American authorities.
Important Limitations:
- The eTA is valid only for air travel (boarding a flight to or through Canada).
- Travellers arriving by car, bus, train, or boat must still obtain a full visitor visa.
- Citizens who do not meet the above criteria continue to require a traditional visitor visa.
How to Apply for an eTA: Step-by-Step Guide
The eTA application process is fast, simple, and entirely online. Most approvals happen within minutes.
- Gather Required Documents
- A valid passport from Indonesia or Malaysia
- A credit or debit card for the fee
- An active email address
- Complete the Online Application
Visit the official IRCC website and fill out the eTA form. The application cannot be saved midway, so prepare all information in advance. - Pay the Fee
The cost is $7 CAD. Payment is required immediately after submission. - Receive Confirmation
Approved applicants receive an email confirmation. The eTA links electronically to the passport and is valid for up to 5 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Multiple entries are allowed during the validity period, as long as each stay complies with Canadian rules (typically up to 6 months per visit).
Key Benefits of the New Policy
This update brings several practical advantages:
- Faster Processing: Traditional visitor visas can take weeks or months. Eligible travellers can now get approval in minutes.
- Lower Cost: $7 CAD versus higher visa application fees and potential biometrics costs.
- Simpler Requirements: No need for extensive supporting documents or in-person interviews for qualifying applicants.
- Economic Boost: Easier travel is expected to increase tourism, business visits, and family connections between Canada and these growing Southeast Asian economies.
In 2025 alone, Canada welcomed over 18,300 visitors from Indonesia and 11,500 from Malaysia. This change is likely to drive those numbers higher in 2026 and beyond.
Comparison: eTA vs Traditional Visitor Visa
| Aspect | eTA (New Option) | Traditional Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Processing Time | Minutes to 72 hours | Several weeks to months |
| Cost | $7 CAD | Higher fees + biometrics |
| Application Method | Fully online | Online + possible biometrics |
| Validity | Up to 5 years | Usually 1-10 years (case-by-case) |
| Travel Mode | Air only | All modes (air, land, sea) |
| Multiple Entries | Yes | Depends on visa type |
Who Should Still Apply for a Full Visa?
Many citizens from Indonesia and Malaysia will still need a traditional visitor visa, including:
- First-time travellers with no recent Canadian or U.S. visa history.
- Those planning to enter Canada by land or sea.
- Individuals needing to stay longer or for specific purposes (e.g., certain work or study activities).
Why Is Canada Making This Change?
The policy forms part of Canada’s broader strategy to deepen partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region. Indonesia and Malaysia are important economic partners, with growing trade in commodities, technology, education, and tourism.
This move follows similar expansions, such as full visa-free access for Qatari citizens in late 2025 and conditional eTA programs for countries like the Philippines and Thailand in 2023.
What Travellers Should Know Before Flying
- An eTA or visa approval does not guarantee entry. Border officers make the final decision based on admissibility.
- Prepare proof of ties to your home country, sufficient funds, and travel itinerary.
- Ensure your passport remains valid for the entire duration of your planned stay.
- Check the latest entry requirements on the official Government of Canada website, as rules can change.
Impact on Tourism and Business Travel
This development is excellent news for:
- Tourists planning vacations to explore Canadian cities, national parks, or winter festivals.
- Business professionals attending conferences or exploring trade opportunities.
- Students and researchers attending short programs or academic events.
- Families visiting relatives already living in Canada.
For frequent travellers who already meet the eligibility criteria, the change removes a major administrative barrier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can all Indonesian and Malaysian citizens now travel visa-free?
No. Only those who held a Canadian TRV in the last 10 years or currently hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa qualify for the eTA. Others still need a visitor visa.
When does the new rule take effect?
The change begins on May 26, 2026, at 5:30 a.m. Eastern Time.
How long is an eTA valid?
Up to five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Do I need to apply for a new eTA every time I travel?
No. One approved eTA covers multiple trips during its validity period.
What if my application is refused?
You will receive instructions on next steps, which may include applying for a full visitor visa.
Does this affect people already holding a valid Canadian visa?
No. Existing valid TRVs can continue to be used until expiry.
This policy change represents a meaningful step toward more accessible travel between Canada and Southeast Asia while maintaining strong border security standards.
Eligible travellers should take advantage of the simplified process starting today.
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