Canada Visa RequirementsFor Mexico passport holders
Mexican citizens require a Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to Canada, following Canada reinstating visa requirements for Mexican nationals in 2023. The eTA costs CAD 7 (approximately USD 7) but is a lighter requirement than a full visa for air travel.
Mexico passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to Canada.
For air travel: Apply online at canada.ca/eta. Cost: CAD 7. Typically approved within minutes but can take several days. You must have a valid passport and be approved before boarding. For land/sea entry: A full Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) is required , apply via the IRCC portal with full documentation (financial statements, employment records, ties to Mexico, travel history).
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Mexico to Canada: What You Need to Know
Canada originally waived visas for Mexican nationals but reinstated the requirement in 2016 and again adjusted requirements in 2023. Currently, Mexican passport holders traveling by air need an eTA (electronic travel authorization) rather than a full visa if they meet certain conditions; however, those arriving by land or sea generally require a full Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). This distinction is important , confirm the applicable requirement for your planned entry mode before travel.
Practical Tips
Air Canada, WestJet, and Aeromexico operate direct flights between Mexico City and Toronto/Montreal/Vancouver. Apply for the eTA well in advance. If applying for a full TRV, processing times can be 4-8 weeks. Canada is a USMCA partner but this does not grant visa-free access. Valid US visa holders may qualify for eTA even for land entry , verify on the IRCC website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Mexican citizens need a visa to visit Canada?
Mexican citizens currently need either an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for air travel or a full Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for land and sea entry. Canada reinstated requirements for Mexican nationals in 2023. The eTA costs CAD 7 and is applied for online.
What is the difference between a Canadian eTA and a TRV for Mexicans?
The eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is a lighter, online pre-authorization for air travel costing CAD 7. A TRV (Temporary Resident Visa) is a full visa required for land or sea entry and requires submitting financial documents, employment records, and ties to Mexico, with processing times of 4-8 weeks.
How long can Mexican citizens stay in Canada?
The authorized stay is determined by the border officer on arrival, up to a maximum of 6 months (180 days). The eTA or TRV validity does not determine how long you can stay inside Canada.
Does the USMCA trade agreement give Mexicans easier access to Canada?
USMCA (the trade agreement between Mexico, the USA, and Canada) provides benefits for certain business travelers and professionals but does not grant visa-free tourist access. Mexican tourists still need an eTA or TRV.