The Canadian government unveiled a new visa policy for Mexican nationals in a recent press release, citing a surge in asylum claims that are either refused, withdrawn, or abandoned. The policy introduces fresh requirements for Mexican nationals seeking an electronic travel authorization (eTA) for air travel to Canada.
Moving forward, individuals who meet the following three criteria are eligible to apply for an eTA:
Possession of a valid Mexican passport for air travel to Canada or transit through a Canadian airport en route to another destination.
Intention to visit Canada for a short stay, typically up to 6 months.
Previous possession of a Canadian visitor visa (temporary resident visa) within the past 10 years or possession of a valid United States nonimmigrant visa.
It’s important to note that eTAs are exclusively for air travel. Individuals planning to visit Canada via other means must obtain a visitor visa.
However, these requirements do not apply to Mexicans holding valid work or study permits.
Canada has witnessed a significant rise in Mexican asylum claims in recent years, escalating from 260 applications in 2016, when Canada eased requirements for Mexican nationals, to nearly 24,000 in 2023. Immigration Minister Marc Miller highlighted that a large portion of these applications were either denied, withdrawn, or abandoned, prompting concerns within the Canadian government. In January, Quebec Premier Francois Legault urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to address the influx of migrants, citing strain on the province’s resources.
Miller addressed the new policy, emphasizing Mexico’s significance as a partner to Canada and reaffirming Canada’s commitment to welcoming Mexican temporary workers, students, visitors, and immigrants who contribute to the economy and communities. He stressed the importance of striking a balance between facilitating movement between the two countries and alleviating pressure on the immigration system to provide protection to those in need.
Miller also attributed the policy change, in part, to Canada’s relationship with the United States, characterizing the increasing migrant numbers as a shared challenge to manage as partners.
Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador responded with a “respectful reproach” during his weekly press briefing, indicating that Mexico would exercise caution in its reaction to the new restrictions.
