Requirements for visa-free travel to Canada as a Filipino

By Trisha Matabalan, Philippine Canadian Inquirer

March 6, 2026

(Photo courtesy: IRCC/website)

CANADA – The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released looser guidelines in the beginning of 2026.

This means that, along with 12 other countries, the Philippines can now essentially enjoy “visa-free entry” into the country.

Of course, “visa-free” does not mean no requirements at all. In order to qualify for this, one must look up the official Government of Canada webpage and apply through the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). You will need A) a valid email address, and B) a debit or credit card in order to pay the non-refundable fee. This process costs only CAN$7 and requires a few minutes for you to receive your application approval through email. Included in the email is your eTA number that you can use in order to check your eTA status and contact IRCC.

Please note that the form is only available in English and French, and to have all information ready as it does not save your progress.

The eTA is valid until your passport expires. They are linked so it is necessary to present your passport on the way to your flight to Canada.

In order to qualify for flying in the first place, you must also have A) a valid passport, B) must have held a Canadian visitor visa in the past ten years or a non-immigrant visa for the USA, and C) must be travelling via air. Like any other travel arrangement, one must also prepare to pay for the Canadian entry requirements and provide evidence of sufficient funds, intent to leave Canada, and health records to show that you are not a risk.