Indonesian and Malaysian nationals are now permitted visa-free travel to Canada, enabling them to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead of a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for their journeys.
This change facilitates faster and more cost-effective immigration processes for eligible individuals from both countries looking to visit, study, or work in Canada. To take advantage of this opportunity, applicants must meet specific criteria set by Canadian authorities.
Previously, citizens of Indonesia and Malaysia needed to secure visas prior to traveling, a process that could span several weeks or even months. The recent announcement came from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on May 25, 2023, with the new regulations taking effect shortly after, on May 26 at 5:30 a.m. EDT.
It’s important to recognize that while the IRCC aims to issue eTAs to those eligible for work or study permits, the decision is made on a case-by-case basis. In certain situations, individuals who qualify for a visa exemption may still need to obtain a passport for work or study permits, which further underscores the importance of understanding the specific requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for eTA Application
Nationals of Indonesia and Malaysia can apply for an eTA if they are traveling to or transiting through Canada by air and meet one of two criteria at the time of application: having held a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) in Canada within the last 10 years, or currently possessing a valid U.S. nonimmigrant visa.
This group is classified as “known” travelers, as they have already been vetted by Canadian or U.S. immigration officials. However, other nationals from these countries must still secure tourist visas for air travel to Canada. Notably, travelers arriving by vehicle, bus, train, or boat will also continue to require a tourist visa regardless of their eTA eligibility.
For those who currently hold a valid TRV, they can continue using that visa until its expiration or until their passport expires, without the immediate need to switch to an eTA. It’s worth highlighting that TRVs encompass not only tourist visas but also those for work or study permits, and applicants for these programs will still need to secure the necessary permits to enter Canada.
Steps to Apply for an eTA
Eligible travelers are required to obtain their eTA prior to boarding a flight to Canada, with the application process conducted entirely online and usually resulting in approval within minutes.
To begin, applicants must gather the necessary documents, including a valid passport, a credit or debit card, and an email address. It’s essential to review the instructions thoroughly, as the application form cannot be saved mid-process. Once ready, applicants should complete the eTA form on the IRCC website and proceed to make the CAD 7 fee payment immediately following their submission.
Most applications are processed swiftly, with decisions communicated via email. In certain cases, however, IRCC may request further information, instructing applicants within 72 hours. The eTA is electronically linked to the passport and remains valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever occurs first. During this validity period, travelers can enter Canada multiple times, provided they fulfill the border entry requirements.
Strategic Expansion of eTA Access
These recent changes are a component of Canada’s larger Indo-Pacific strategy, which aims to boost trade, investment, and interpersonal connections throughout the region. Indonesia and Malaysia are significant economic partners for Canada in Southeast Asia, and enhancing eTA eligibility reflects a broader commitment to strengthening these ties.
In recent years, Canada has progressively expanded eTA eligibility. For instance, in November 2025, the IRCC eliminated visa requirements for Qatari nationals, granting them full visa-free travel. This contrasts with the new provisions for Indonesian and Malaysian nationals, who are still subject to specific travel regulations.
This modification in travel policies resembles the expansion of the conditional eTA program that established targeted eligibility criteria for nationals from selected countries. Notably, in June 2023, Canada added 13 countries—including the Philippines, Thailand, Argentina, and Morocco—to this list, showcasing a consistent effort to include diverse nations.
Immigration Minister Lena Metrej Diab emphasized that these changes are part of Canada’s ongoing initiatives to diversify trade relationships while ensuring robust border security. In 2025 alone, Canada welcomed approximately 18,300 visitors from Indonesia and 11,500 from Malaysia, underscoring the importance of these new regulations in facilitating travel between nations.
