05/28/2026
Canada has expanded its visa-free travel program for eligible citizens of Indonesia and Malaysia, making travel to Canada faster, more accessible, and more affordable for many travellers.
Effective May 26, 2026, qualifying Indonesian and Malaysian citizens may be eligible to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead of a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) when travelling to or transiting through Canada by air.
To qualify for an eTA, applicants must either:
• Have held a Canadian Temporary Resident Visa within the past 10 years; or
• Currently hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa.
This change is expected to significantly reduce processing times and costs for eligible travellers visiting Canada for tourism, business, studies, or work. However, individuals planning to study or work in Canada must still obtain the appropriate study permit or work permit before travelling.
It is important to note that travellers who do not meet the eligibility requirements will still need to apply for a visitor visa. In addition, all travellers entering Canada by land or sea will continue to require a visitor visa regardless of their eligibility for an eTA.
This update reflects Canada’s ongoing efforts to facilitate travel for trusted and previously screened international visitors while maintaining the integrity of its immigration system.
This update may create new opportunities for eligible Indonesian and Malaysian nationals who wish to visit, study, or work in Canada while benefiting from a simplified travel process.
If you are a citizen of Indonesia or Malaysia and would like to determine your eligibility for an eTA, visitor visa, study permit, or work permit, contact Dawod Immigration for professional guidance and personalized immigration solutions.