Canada Opens Visa-Free Pathway for Antiguans Under Expanded eTA Programme

Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda are among nationals from 13 countries now eligible for visa-free air travel to Canada, following an expansion of Canada’s Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) programme aimed at boosting tourism and strengthening international ties.

The announcement means eligible Antiguans can now travel to Canada without applying for a traditional visitor visa, once they meet specific criteria under the updated policy rolled out by the Government of Canada earlier this month.

What the Change Means for Antiguans
Under the new arrangement, Antiguan passport holders may enter Canada for short stays of up to six months by applying for an eTA instead of a visitor visa, provided they:
-Have held a Canadian visa at any time within the past 10 years, or
-Currently hold a valid non-immigrant United States visa

The measure applies only to travellers flying into Canada. Those arriving by land or sea—such as via cruise ship or driving from the U.S.—do not require an eTA.

What Is an eTA?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a digital entry requirement linked electronically to a traveller’s passport. It is mandatory for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to Canada, whether they are visiting or transiting through a Canadian airport.

The eTA is not a visa, but it allows Canadian authorities to pre-screen travellers before they board their flight.

How Antiguans Can Apply
Applying for an eTA is straightforward and completed online. Applicants will need:
-A valid Antigua and Barbuda passport
-A working email address
-A credit or debit card to pay the C$7 application fee

Most applications are approved within minutes, though some may require additional checks. Once approved, the eTA remains valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, and allows for multiple short visits.

Transit Through Canada
Antiguans transiting through a Canadian airport en route to another destination must also obtain an eTA in advance.

This applies even if the traveller does not intend to leave the airport.

Why the Policy Matters for Antigua and Barbuda
The inclusion of Antigua and Barbuda is seen as a positive diplomatic and mobility development, reducing long-standing travel barriers for Antiguans seeking to visit family, pursue business opportunities, attend events, or vacation in Canada.

It also places Antigua and Barbuda among a select group of Caribbean countries benefiting from simplified access, alongside regional neighbours such as St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Important Reminders for Travellers
While the eTA eases entry requirements, travellers must still satisfy Canadian border officials that they:
-Have sufficient funds for their stay
-Intend to leave Canada before their authorised period ends
-Pose no security, criminal, or health risk

Border officers retain full discretion to grant or deny entry upon arrival.

If You’re Not Eligible
Antiguans who do not meet the eligibility criteria—such as those without a prior Canadian visa or valid U.S. visa—will still be required to apply for a regular Canadian visitor visa through the standard process.

Canadian authorities have indicated that travel and immigration policies continue to evolve, and further updates may be announced in the future.