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Mexican citizens need an e-Visa for Canada

As of 2026-09-22

Processing

Minutes (eTA) / 4-8 weeks (visa)

Fee

CAD 7 (eTA) / CAD 100 (visa)

Max Stay

6 months

Last updated: 2026-09-22 • Information may change—always verify with official sources.

Canada Visa Overview for Mexican Citizens

Mexican citizens can apply for an e-Visa to visit Canada. eTA (CAD 7, air travel only) if you held a Canadian visitor visa in the past 10 years or hold a valid US non-immigrant visa; otherwise a visitor visa (CAD 100) is required (IRCC eTA eligibility list, checked 7 Oct 2026). The e-Visa can be obtained online before travel for a fee of CAD 7 (eTA) / CAD 100 (visa), with processing typically taking Minutes (eTA) / 4-8 weeks (visa).

Mexican citizens who are eligible can apply for a Canadian eTA online. The eTA is electronically linked to the passport and valid for up to 5 years or until the passport expires. It is required for air travel to Canada. Apply through the official IRCC website at least 72 hours before departure.

The e-Visa allows a stay of 6 months in Canada. maximum stay of 6 months unless specified otherwise at entry.

Entry Requirements

Documents and conditions you will need when entering Canada

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Canada, with at least 1 blank page
  • Return or onward travel tickets
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Evidence of sufficient funds
  • Letter of invitation if visiting family or friends
  • Printed or digital copy of approved e-Visa

Available Visa Types for Mexican Citizens

How to Apply

1

Visit the official Canada e-Visa portal at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html

2

Create an account and complete the online application with your passport and travel details

3

Upload required documents: passport scan, passport-size photo, and supporting documents

4

Pay the e-Visa fee of CAD 7 (eTA) / CAD 100 (visa) online

5

Wait for processing (typically Minutes (eTA) / 4-8 weeks (visa))

6

Download and print the approved e-Visa

7

Present the printed e-Visa along with your passport at the Canada border

Stay Rules & Conditions

  • Maximum stay of 6 months unless specified otherwise at entry
  • Cannot work on a visitor visa
  • Cannot study for longer than 6 months
  • Can apply to extend status from within Canada
  • Overstaying your permitted stay may result in fines, detention, deportation, and difficulty obtaining future visas to this and other countries

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Arriving with a passport that expires too soon — most countries require at least 6 months of remaining validity
  • Assuming the e-Visa will be instant — processing can take several business days, so apply well before your departure
  • Not printing the e-Visa approval — some border controls require a physical copy

Important Notes for Mexican Applicants

  • Mexican citizens apply through Visa Application Centres in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey for biometrics
  • Apply for the e-Visa before departure — it cannot be obtained at the border
  • E-Visa processing typically takes Minutes (eTA) / 4-8 weeks (visa) — apply with buffer time before your flight
  • The US, Canada, and Australia are the only major destinations that still require Mexican passport holders to apply for a full visa — the UK moved to the £20 ETA, and Schengen, Japan (180 days), and the UAE (180 days) are visa-free
  • B1/B2 interview wait times vary widely between Mexican consulates — check ustraveldocs.com and consider a less congested post if your travel date is tight
  • Maximum stay of 6 months unless specified otherwise at entry

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Mexican citizens need a visa for Canada?

Mexican citizens can apply for an e-Visa online before traveling to Canada. The fee is CAD 7 (eTA) / CAD 100 (visa). Apply through the official portal before departure.

How long can Mexican citizens stay in Canada?

With an approved visa, Mexican citizens may stay in Canada for 6 months. The exact duration is determined by the visa type and conditions.

Where do Mexican citizens apply for a Canada visa?

Mexican citizens typically apply through Visa Application Centres in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey for biometrics. The application process is online through the IRCC portal, followed by biometrics at a VAC. Book appointments early, especially during peak travel seasons.

What documents do Mexican citizens need for a Canada visa?

Key documents typically include: a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay), passport-size photos, bank statements showing sufficient funds, proof of accommodation, a travel itinerary, and an employment or business letter. Check the official application form for the complete list.

Can Mexican citizens work in Canada on a tourist visa?

No. A tourist visa does not permit paid employment in Canada, including freelancing or working for local employers. Remote work for overseas employers is a legal gray area that varies by country — do not assume it is permitted. Working without proper authorization can result in deportation and future visa bans. A separate work permit or visa is required for any employment.

Other destinations for Mexican citizens

View all destinations for Mexican citizens
Last verified:September 2026