Canada Opens Door to Easier Travel for Indonesians

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Canada is moving to ease travel requirements for eligible Indonesian citizens, a step seen as both a practical convenience and a signal of deeper engagement with Southeast Asia.

Beginning Tuesday, May 26, 2026, Indonesians who qualify will be able to use an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead of a visa for air travel and transit to Canada.

According to the Canadian government’s official website, the policy applies to Indonesian nationals who have held a Canadian temporary resident visa (TRV) within the past 10 years or who currently possess a valid U.S. non‑immigrant visa.

“Individuals with a valid TRV may continue to use it for travel to Canada,” the government noted, as quoted by Antara, while directing travelers to its website for eTA application procedures.

The eTA system allows Canadian authorities to conduct pre‑screening of airline passengers before entry.

Canadian Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab emphasized that the change reflects the country's broader effort to attract global talent, strengthen partnerships, and create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and workers.

She added that easing visa requirements for eligible travelers from Indonesia and Malaysia is part of a wider Indo‑Pacific strategy.

“It supports trade and investment, while making it easier for people to connect, do business, and contribute to Canada’s long‑term economic growth," she said.

Officials in Ottawa also underlined that the adjustment is designed to reinforce bilateral ties with Indonesia without compromising border safety and security.

Indonesia has become a significant economic partner for Canada. In 2025, bilateral trade reached USD 6.75 billion (Rp 120 trillion), making Indonesia Canada’s third‑largest trading partner in Southeast Asia.

Canadian exports to Indonesia totaled USD 3 billion (Rp 53.3 trillion), positioning Indonesia as Canada’s second‑largest export market in the region and 17th globally.

Beyond trade, people‑to‑people links are also growing: Canada welcomed approximately 18,300 Indonesian visitors in 2025, underscoring the importance of more accessible travel pathways. ***