Thinking about a short trip to Canada? Whether you are visiting friends, exploring a few cities, or attending a brief business meeting, travel is now easier for some Filipinos.
Most Filipino passport holders still need a visa to enter Canada. However, some travelers may qualify for an eTA instead, if they meet specific conditions. Before booking your flight, check which option applies to you so you can plan your trip with confidence.
Do Filipinos need a visa for Canada?
Yes, most Filipinos still need a visa to travel to Canada.
However, some Filipino passport holders may be eligible to apply for an eTA instead of a visitor visa, which is faster and cheaper.
You may qualify for an eTA if:
- You held a Canadian visitor visa in the past 10 years, or
- You currently hold a valid US non-immigrant visa (such as B1/B2, student, or work visa)
- You are traveling to Canada by air
If you do not meet these conditions, you must apply for a regular Canadian visitor visa before traveling.
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What Is an eTA for Canada?
An eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is an online travel approval required for visa-exempt travelers flying to Canada.
For eligible Filipinos:
- Application is done online
- No embassy visit required
- Processing is usually quick
- Cost is 7 CAD (around ₱300)
An eTA allows short stays in Canada, usually up to 6 months per visit, but the final length of stay is decided by the immigration officer upon arrival.
Visa Tips if You’re Staying in Canada More Than 6 Months
If you plan to stay in Canada for more than six months, an eTA is not allowed.
You must apply for the appropriate visa before traveling, such as:
👉 Visitor Visa – For long visits, tourism, or staying with family
👉 Work Permit – If you have a confirmed job offer
👉 Study Permit – If you plan to study in Canada
👉 Family Sponsorship Visa – If joining an immediate family member
Always check the official Canada immigration website for the latest rules before applying.
Which Countries Can Visit Canada Without a Visa?
Many travelers can visit Canada without a visa, but most still need an eTA if flying.
Country | Allowed Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
USA | Up to 6 months | Passport required, no eTA needed |
UK | Up to 6 months | eTA required before flying |
Australia | Up to 6 months | eTA required |
New Zealand | Up to 6 months | eTA required |
Japan | Up to 6 months | eTA required |
South Korea | Up to 6 months | eTA required |
Singapore | Up to 6 months | eTA required |
France | Up to 6 months | Passport must remain valid |
👉 Philippines: Visa required unless eligible for eTA under special conditions
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Canada Visa Types
If you’re not sure which visa you need for your trip to Canada, here’s a simple guide. Whether you’re going for a visit, work, school, or to join family, this will help you choose.
Visa Type | Who It’s For | How Long You Can Stay | What to Know |
|---|---|---|---|
Visitor Visa | For tourists, visiting friends or family | Usually up to 6 months | Good for holidays, seeing family, or short business trips |
Work Permit | If you have a job offer in Canada | Depends on your work contract | You’ll need a job offer and papers from your employer |
Study Permit | If you plan to study in Canada | Length of your course | Bring your school’s acceptance letter |
Family Sponsorship | Joining a close family member in Canada | Depends on sponsor’s status | Proof like birth or marriage certificate will be needed |
Business Visa | For investors or starting a business | Varies | You’ll need a clear business plan and some funds |
Temporary Resident Permit | Special permission for short stays | Varies | Given if you’re usually not allowed to enter Canada |
Working Holiday Visa | For youth from partner countries (18–35) | Up to 2 years | Lets you work and travel at the same time |
Permanent Residence | For living and working in Canada forever | Permanent | Apply after meeting the requirements for immigration |
Canada Visa Requirements for Filipinos
Planning a trip to Canada for more than six months or need a specific visa? Before you apply, make sure you have your papers ready. These show who you are, why you’re going, and that you can pay for your trip. Being prepared will help make your application smoother.
Document | What It Is | Why You Need It |
|---|---|---|
Valid Philippine Passport | Your main travel ID | Proves who you are and your nationality |
Completed Application Form | Filled-out Canada visa form | Gives details of your trip and purpose |
Recent Passport Photo | A clear, up-to-date ID picture | Used for your visa and other papers |
Proof of Funds | Bank statement, payslip, or income proof | Shows you can pay for your trip and stay in Canada |
Flight Ticket | Return or onward travel booking | Proves you plan to leave Canada before your visa ends |
Accommodation Info | Hotel booking or address of where you’ll stay | Lets them know where you’ll stay in Canada |
Extra Documents Based on Visa Type
Depending on the visa you need, you might also have to submit a few extra papers:
Visa Type | Extra Papers You May Need |
|---|---|
Visitor Visa | Travel plan, hotel booking, proof you can pay for the trip |
Work Permit | Job offer, contract from your employer, Labour Market Impact Assessment (if required) |
Study Permit | Acceptance letter from your school, proof you can pay tuition and living expenses |
Family Sponsorship | Marriage or birth certificate, copy of your sponsor’s status in Canada |
Business Visa | Business plan, proof of funds, company registration papers |
How to Apply for a Canada Visa (For Filipinos)
Planning a trip to Canada? Whether you’re going to visit, work, study, or see family, here’s a simple guide to help you apply without the hassle:
1.Check if You Need a Visa
If you have a Philippine passport, you do need a visa to enter Canada.
2. Get Your Documents Ready
Before you apply, make sure you have these:
✅ Valid Philippine Passport (make sure it’s not about to expire)
✅ Completed Application Form (you can do this online)
✅ 1 Recent Passport Photo (with a white background, taken in the last 6 months)
✅ Proof of Funds (bank statements, payslips, or other proof you can pay for your trip)
✅ Flight Booking (return or onward ticket)
✅ Accommodation Info (hotel booking or address of a friend or family you’re staying with)
✅ Other papers depending on your visa (e.g. school acceptance letter, job offer, or invitation)
3. Apply Online
You’ll need to submit your visa application and documents through the IRCC website. Follow the steps carefully and pay the visa fee online.
4. Give Your Biometrics
After you apply, you’ll get a request for biometrics. Book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to have your photo and fingerprints taken.
5. Wait for Processing
Processing can take a few weeks, so it’s a good idea to apply early. Check the IRCC website for the latest wait times.
6. Get Your Visa
When your visa is approved, you’ll get a notice to submit your passport. Once you get it back with the visa, double-check all the details before you travel.
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Canada Visa Fees for Filipinos
Before applying, it’s important to know how much you need to pay so you can plan your budget properly. Fees are usually paid online during application or when requested by the Visa Application Centre (VAC).
eTA Fee (For Eligible Filipinos)
- 7 CAD (around ₱300)
- Available only for Filipinos who meet eTA eligibility conditions
- Valid for air travel only
- Allows multiple entries
- Valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first
👉 Note: Not all Filipinos qualify for an eTA. If you do not meet the requirements, you must apply for a regular visa.
Canada Visa Fees (Regular Applications)
Visa Type | Fee (Approx. PHP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Visitor Visa (Single or Multiple Entry) | ₱5,000 – ₱6,000 | For tourism, visiting family or friends, or short business trips |
Work Permit | ₱8,000 – ₱9,000 | Requires a valid job offer and supporting documents |
Study Permit | ₱8,000 – ₱9,000 | For students enrolled in schools, colleges, or universities |
Biometrics Fee | ₱3,000 – ₱3,500 | Required for most applicants |
Family Sponsorship | Varies | Depends on relationship and sponsor’s status |
Business Visa | Varies | Based on business type and application category |
Temporary Resident Permit | Varies | Granted in special cases only |
Payment Tips for Filipino Applicants
- When to Pay: Fees are paid during your online application or when instructed by the VAC
- How to Pay: Online payments usually accept credit or debit cards
- Keep Your Receipt: Save a copy of your payment receipt for tracking and reference
👉 Fees may change without notice, so always double-check the latest amounts on Canada’s official immigration website before applying.
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Safe Travels and See You in Canada! ✈️
Whether you’re visiting Canada for a short holiday, a business trip, studying, or visiting family, knowing whether you need a visa or qualify for an eTA can save you both time and money.
Check your eligibility early, prepare your documents carefully, and always follow the latest rules from Canada’s official immigration website. Once everything is settled, you can focus on planning your trip and enjoying Canada’s cities, nature, and welcoming culture.
Have a safe flight and enjoy your trip to Canada 🍁