Argentina Joins Qatar, Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, Trinidad and Tobago, Saint Lucia and Other Countries in New eTA Expansion – Travel to Canada Just Got Way Simpler!

Published on November 28, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

Canada has made it easier for Qatari citizens to visit, transit through, or conduct business in the country by lifting the visa requirement and granting them access to the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system. The change, which took effect on November 25, 2025, at 5:30 a.m. EST, marks a significant move in Canada’s efforts to enhance travel relations and bilateral ties with Qatar, while also streamlining travel for citizens of other nations globally.

Previously, Qatari citizens required a temporary resident visa (TRV) to enter Canada. Now, they are eligible for an eTA, which is a simpler and quicker process for air travel. The move is part of Canada’s broader efforts to encourage tourism, business, and cultural exchange while ensuring security.

What is the New Travel Policy for Qatar?

As of November 25, 2025, Qatari travelers who do not hold a valid Canadian visa must apply for an eTA for air travel to or through Canada. The eTA application process is entirely online and easy to complete, requiring just a valid passport, a credit or debit card for the CAN$7 application fee, and an email address.

Applications for the eTA are processed swiftly—most are approved within minutes, though some may require additional review. Once approved, the eTA is electronically linked to the applicant’s passport and remains valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. This travel authorization allows for multiple entries into Canada for short stays (usually up to six months) for purposes such as tourism, business, or transit.

Where Does This Policy Apply?

While the eTA is now available for Qatari citizens wishing to travel by air to Canada, it is important to note that this requirement applies solely to air travel. Qataris entering Canada by land or sea do not need to apply for an eTA but must still meet basic entry requirements such as proof of sufficient funds, ties to their home country, and no criminal or immigration-related issues.

This change only affects travelers flying into Canada. Qatari citizens who already possess a valid Canadian visitor visa can continue using that visa until its expiration.

When Did This Change Take Effect?

The eTA eligibility for Qatari citizens became active on November 25, 2025, at 5:30 a.m. EST. This change came as part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to modernize its immigration and visa systems, offering easier, more efficient travel options to citizens of countries like Qatar, which are seen as key partners in global diplomacy, tourism, and business expansion.

Qatar is not the only country to benefit from the eTA system. In June 2023, Canada expanded the eTA program to citizens of 13 other countries, allowing more travelers from regions like Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean to apply for an eTA, further streamlining travel to Canada.

Why Was Qatar Added to the eTA List?

This recent update is part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to bolster international relations, enhance bilateral cooperation, and promote tourism and business exchange. Canada has long been interested in facilitating smoother travel between itself and countries with rapidly growing economic and cultural ties, such as Qatar.

Canada’s eTA program is designed to make travel easier and more accessible while maintaining high standards of security. The online application system helps filter travelers efficiently and ensures that only those who meet the necessary criteria are allowed to enter the country.

How Does This Policy Affect Other Countries?

While this particular change applies only to Qatari citizens, it is part of a larger trend. In June 2023, Canada expanded the eTA program to 13 countries, including Argentina, Thailand, Morocco, Panama, and the Philippines, among others. Travelers from these countries can now apply for an eTA instead of a traditional visa, making air travel to Canada faster and more straightforward.

The full list of countries added in 2023 includes:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Argentina
• Costa Rica
• Morocco
• Panama
• Philippines
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Seychelles
• Thailand
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Uruguay

For these countries, travelers can enjoy the same easy online application process for the eTA, which is also valid for up to five years and costs CAN$7. However, all applicants must meet the basic entry requirements and must not have previous immigration or security concerns.

What’s Next for Canada’s eTA Expansion?

Following the 2025 addition of Qatar and the previous 2023 expansion, the Canadian government has shown a clear commitment to improving the ease of travel for a wide range of international visitors. The goal is to foster global tourism, trade, and collaboration, while balancing immigration concerns through efficient systems like the eTA.

As part of Canada’s broader immigration strategy, future expansions of the eTA program could be expected, particularly with an eye toward markets in Africa, South America, and Asia.

Summary Table: Qatari eTA Details

Conclusion: A New Era for Travel Between Qatar and Canada

The eTA update for Qatar marks an exciting shift in how Qatari citizens travel to Canada. With easier, faster access for business, tourism, and transit, this change opens up new opportunities for bilateral relations between the two nations. Whether you’re planning a business trip or a vacation, the new eTA system will streamline your journey and make it more accessible.