Following a major policy reversal by IRCC, most Mexican citizens travelling to Canada as of May 2026 now strictly require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). You can only use a simple eTA if you are flying into Canada and currently hold a valid US non-immigrant visa, or if you have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years.
For several years, citizens of Mexico enjoyed visa-free travel to Canada, requiring only a quick online Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). However, due to shifting federal immigration priorities, the Government of Canada formally reinstated the visa requirement for Mexican nationals. 🏲️ This abrupt policy change has left many families and business travellers confused about what specific documents they need to legally enter the country.
Whether you are planning to visit the CN Tower in Toronto, Ontario, or intending to study short-term in Montreal, Quebec, you cannot simply arrive at a Canadian port of entry with your passport anymore. Most Mexican nationals must now undergo the rigorous Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) application process, which involves demonstrating deep financial ties to Mexico. It is highly recommended to engage a Canadian law firm to navigate these strict new evidentiary requirements and avoid a painful visa refusal.
Step-by-Step Process for Mexican Citizens Visiting Canada
Because the rules are now highly nuanced, failing to apply for the correct document will result in you being denied boarding by your airline or turned away by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Most applicants successfully follow these structured steps.
Step 1: Assessing Your eTA Exemption Status
Before applying for a full visa, check if you qualify for the specific eTA exemptions. If you hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa (such as a B1/B2 visa), or if you have held a Canadian visitor visa at any point in the last 10 years, you are exempt from the new TRV rule-but only if you are arriving by air. 📝
Step 2: Applying for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
If you meet the strict criteria in Step 1 and are flying directly to a Canadian airport like Vancouver International Airport in British Columbia, you can apply for an eTA online. The system will electronically verify your past Canadian visa or current US visa. If approved, this eTA is electronically linked to your Mexican passport.
Step 3: Submitting the TRV Application
If you do not have a US visa, have never held a Canadian visa, or if you plan to drive into Canada via a land border, you must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa. You will submit forms through the IRCC portal, providing extensive documentation including bank statements in CAD, employment letters, and a detailed travel itinerary.
Step 4: Completing Biometrics
Once you submit your TRV application, IRCC will send you a Biometrics Instruction Letter. You must schedule an appointment at a local Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Mexico (for example, in Mexico City or Monterrey) to have your digital photograph and fingerprints securely collected by Canadian officials.
Step 5: Passport Submission and Travel
If the Canadian immigration officer approves your application, they will request your physical passport. You must send it to the VAC so the official TRV counterfoil (sticker) can be placed inside. Only once you have this physical visa in your passport can you safely travel to Canada.
How Much Does it Cost in Canada?
Budgeting for your trip now requires factoring in standard federal government fees. The following amounts are accurate for May 2026 and are listed in Canadian dollars (CAD).
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) | $7 | Cost for eligible Mexican citizens arriving by air with a US visa. |
| Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) | $100 | Standard application fee for the physical visitor visa. |
| Biometrics Fee | $85 | Mandatory fee for fingerprinting and photography at a VAC. |
| Lawyer Representation Fees | $1,500 – $3,000 | Typical legal retainers for preparing a strong, evidence-based TRV application. |
It is critical to note that if your TRV is refused, the IRCC does not refund the $100 application fee or the $85 biometrics fee. 💸 Getting the application right the first time is crucial for both your travel plans and your wallet.
How Long Does the Process Take?
If you are lucky enough to qualify for the eTA exemption, processing is generally remarkably fast. Most eTAs are approved within minutes to 72 hours.
However, if you must apply for a TRV, the timeline is significantly longer. As of May 2026, the processing time for a visitor visa from Mexico averages between 30 to 60 days. You must also factor in the extra time needed to secure a biometrics appointment and the transit time for mailing your physical passport back and forth to the Visa Application Centre.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens if my old eTA from 2023 was cancelled?
When the policy changed, IRCC cancelled thousands of existing eTAs held by Mexican citizens. You must re-evaluate your eligibility under the new rules. You cannot travel on a cancelled eTA, and you will likely need to apply for a TRV.
I have a US visa, but I am driving to Canada. What do I need?
If you are arriving by land or sea, the eTA exemption strictly does not apply. Even if you have a valid US B1/B2 visa, you must possess a physical Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) in your passport to drive across the Canadian border.
Can I apply for a Canadian work permit with just an eTA?
An eTA or TRV strictly allows you to visit Canada, not enter the labour market. If you wish to work, you must apply for a specific Work Permit, often requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from a Canadian employer.
Do Mexican international students need a TRV now?
If you apply for and are approved for a Canadian Study Permit, IRCC will automatically issue you a TRV or eTA (depending on your mode of travel) alongside your permit approval. You do not need to apply for a separate visitor visa.
Why does IRCC refuse TRVs for Mexican citizens?
The most common reason for refusal is that the officer is not convinced you will leave Canada at the end of your stay. You must prove strong ties to Mexico, such as property ownership, permanent employment, and sufficient financial assets.
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