Canada recently amended its visa for Mexican nationals, a decision that comes in response to concerns about abuse of the overstay and the inappropriate use of travel authorisations. Since 29 February 2024, the rules governing theelectronic travel authorisation (AVE) for Mexican citizens have undergone significant changes, making it now necessary to obtain a visitor visa for most of them. The aim of these changes is to provide a stricter framework for entry into Canada, even when travel has already been planned.
Since 29 February 2024, the Canadian government has tightened its visa eligibility criteria for Mexican nationals. In response to a number of abuses, Ottawa is now imposing strict rules governing the granting of visas to Mexican nationals.electronic travel authorisation (AVE). These new provisions are likely to complicate the process of entering Canada for many Mexicans.
The decision to change the requirements of the AVE for Mexican citizens was prompted by concerns about non-compliance with the conditions of stay. The Canadian authorities observed that many AVE holders were overstaying, or using this authorisation to travel to the United States. As a result, Canada has decided to reinstate the visa requirement for Mexicans wishing to travel to the country.
The new eligibility requirements
With the introduction of the new rules, Mexicans wishing to obtain an AVE must now satisfy the following requirements three essential conditions. Firstly, it must be in possession of a valid Mexican passport at the time of departure to Canada or transit through a Canadian airport. Secondly, the traveller must prove that he or she has held a Canadian visitor visa in the last 10 years. Finally, it must have in force a non-immigrant visa American.
Automatic cancellations for existing AVEs
Based on these new provisions, it is important to note thatall AVEs previously issued to Mexican nationals will be cancelledIn addition, those whose application for an AVE is in progress will have to submit a new application for an AVE or a new study permit. In addition, for those whose application for an AVE is in progress, they will have to submit a new application for an AVE or a valid work or study permit. visitor visa to enter Canada.
Impact on current trips
These changes will have significant repercussions, even for travellers who have already booked their plane tickets. If a Mexican national is no longer eligible for the AVE, they will now have to apply for a visa to travel to Canada. This makes it essential to check the new requirements carefully before any planned departure for Canada.
Air and ground travel arrangements
It should be noted that the EVA is for air travel only. Travellers planning to enter Canada by other means such as car, bus, train or boat (including cruises) will need to obtain an visitor visa. Permanent residents of the United States are not required to have an AVE or a visa to enter Canada, but they must present their green card and a valid passport from their country of origin. It is also worth mentioning that some travellers on official or diplomatic missions may be subject to visa requirements, even as permanent residents.
Practical information to consider
For Mexicans wishing to travel to Canada, it is vital to keep abreast of the new rules. Visit visa application can be made by following the link below: Visas for Canada. What's more, if your travel plans involve transiting Canada, specific procedures also apply. It is advisable to consult additional resources to better understand the transit in Canada.
Lastly, these changes mean that the procedures for travelling to Canada need to be reassessed. For more information on visa requirements and processing, interested parties can also consult the FAQs on travelling to Canadawhich sheds further light on these new sectors.
New Visa Requirements for Mexican Nationals
| Criteria | Details |
| AVE eligibility | Limited to Mexicans with a visitor visa in the last 10 years and a valid non-immigrant visa American. |
| Cancellation of existing AVE | All AVEs for Mexicans will be cancelled unless a work permit or studies is held. |
| Request in progress | Current AVE applications must be reapplied for as a visitor visa. |
| Required Document | Travellers must use a valid Mexican passport. |
| Non-air transport | For entries other than by air, a visitor visa is required. |
| Exemption for US residents | The permanent residents from the United States can enter without an AVE or visa, with a green card. |
| How long does it take to obtain a visa? | Estimated time to obtain a visa: 4 to 6 weeks. |
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