Traveling to Canada as a permanent resident can be straightforward with the right information. SIXT.VN is here to guide you through the essential requirements for a smooth trip, offering tailored travel solutions. Whether you’re planning a leisurely vacation or visiting family, understanding the necessary documents and regulations is key for Canadian travel, border crossing, and immigration.
1. Who Needs What to Enter Canada?
The documents you need to enter Canada depend on your citizenship and how you are traveling. Here’s a breakdown:
- Canadian Citizens: Require a valid Canadian passport, including dual citizens. American-Canadians can use either a Canadian or U.S. passport.
- Canadian Permanent Residents: Need a valid Permanent Resident Card (PR card) or a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD).
- U.S. Citizens: Must have proper identification, such as a valid U.S. passport.
- Lawful Permanent Residents of the U.S.: Require a valid passport from their country of nationality and a valid Green Card.
2. What Documents Do Lawful Permanent Residents of the U.S. Need?
As of April 26, 2022, lawful permanent residents of the United States must present specific documents for all travel methods to Canada:
- A valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document).
- A valid Green Card (or equivalent valid proof of status in the United States).
3. What Are Acceptable Status Documents for U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents?
You need official proof of your status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. Here are some examples:
- Valid Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551).
- Foreign passport with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (also known as an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication [ADIT] stamp).
- Foreign passport with a temporary I-551 printed notation (“Upon endorsement serves as temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year”) on a machine-readable immigrant visa upon endorsement with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection admission stamp.
- Expired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) or Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status).
- Expired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card [Green Card]).
- Valid re-entry permit (Form I-327).
- Form I-94 with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp) and a passport-style photo.
4. Who Needs an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?
Certain travelers who are visa-exempt need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to board their flight to Canada. However, if you are entering by land or sea (driving from the U.S., bus, train, or boat, including cruise ship), you do not need an eTA.
Here is a list of countries whose citizens generally require an eTA:
eTA Eligible Countries
- Andorra
- Australia
- Austria
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belgium
- British citizen
- British National (Overseas)
- British overseas citizen (re-admissible to the United Kingdom)
- British overseas territory citizen with citizenship through birth, descent, naturalization, or registration in one of the British overseas territories of:
- Anguilla
- Bermuda
- British Virgin Islands
- Cayman Islands
- Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
- Gibraltar
- Montserrat
- Pitcairn Island
- Saint Helena
- Turks and Caicos Islands
- British Subject with a right of abode in the United Kingdom
- Brunei Darussalam
- Bulgaria
- Chile
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (must have a passport issued by Hong Kong SAR)
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Israel (must have a national Israeli passport)
- Italy
- Japan
- Republic of Korea
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Papua New Guinea
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania (electronic passport holders only)
- Samoa
- San Marino
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Solomon Islands
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan (must have an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that includes the personal identification number)
- United Arab Emirates
- Vatican City State (must have a passport or travel document issued by the Vatican)
Check your passport for the electronic passport symbol to determine if you have an electronic passport.
eTA Exemptions
Certain foreign nationals are exempt from the eTA requirement:
Foreign nationals with official Canadian documents
- Travelers with a valid Canadian visa.
- Travelers with valid status in Canada (e.g., visitor, student, or worker) who re-enter Canada after only visiting the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon.
Foreign nationals in specific situations
- French citizens who live in Saint Pierre and Miquelon and are flying directly to Canada from St. Pierre and Miquelon.
- Foreign nationals who are passengers destined to or coming from the United States on a flight that stops in Canada solely to refuel and:
- Have proper documents to enter the United States, or
- Were lawfully admitted to the United States.
- Foreign nationals who are passengers on a flight that makes an unscheduled stop in Canada.
- Foreign nationals who transit through a Canadian airport under the Transit Without Visa or China Transit Program.
Travel and Official Representatives
- Flight crew, civil aviation inspectors, and accident investigators who are or will be working while in Canada.
- Members of Armed Forces (not including the civilian component of an armed forces) of a country designated under the Visiting Forces Act coming to Canada to carry out official duties.
- Diplomats accredited by the Government of Canada.
5. Who Needs a Visa to Travel to Canada?
If you don’t qualify for an eTA or are not a citizen of a visa-exempt country, you will need a visa to enter Canada. This requirement applies regardless of your method of travel—plane, car, bus, train, or cruise ship.
Holders of a foreign national passport and stateless individuals typically need a visa to visit or transit through Canada.
Here’s a list of countries whose citizens generally require a visa:
Visa-Required Countries
- Afghanistan
- Albania
- Algeria
- Angola
- Antigua and Barbuda (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Argentina (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Bahrain
- Bangladesh
- Belarus
- Belize
- Benin
- Bhutan
- Bolivia
- Bosnia-Herzegovina
- Botswana
- Brazil (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Burkina Faso
- Burundi
- Cambodia
- Cameroon, Republic of
- Cabo Verde
- Central African Republic
- Chad
- China, People’s Republic of
- Colombia
- Comoros
- Congo, Democratic Republic of
- Congo, Republic of
- Costa Rica, Republic of (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Cuba
- Djibouti
- Dominica
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- Egypt
- El Salvador
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Eswatini
- Ethiopia
- Fiji
- Gabon
- Gambia
- Georgia
- Ghana
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Guyana
- Haiti
- Honduras
- India
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Iraq
- Israel (Travelers must have a valid Israeli “Travel Document in lieu of National Passport.”)
- Ivory Coast
- Jamaica
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kenya
- Kiribati
- Korea, North
- Kosovo
- Kuwait
- Kyrgyzstan
- Laos
- Lebanon
- Lesotho
- Liberia
- Libya
- Macao Special Administrative Region
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Malaysia
- Maldives Islands
- Mali
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritania
- Mauritius
- Mexico (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Micronesia, Fed. States
- Moldova
- Mongolia
- Montenegro
- Morocco (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Mozambique
- Myanmar
- Namibia
- Nauru
- Nepal
- Nicaragua
- Niger
- Nigeria
- North Macedonia
- Oman
- Pakistan
- Palau
- Palestinian Authority
- Panama (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Philippines (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Qatar
- Romania (holder of a non-electronic passport, such as a temporary passport)
- Russia
- Rwanda
- Sao Tomé e Principe
- Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of
- Senegal
- Serbia
- Seychelles (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Sierra Leone
- Somalia
- South Africa
- South Sudan
- Sri Lanka
- St. Kitts and Nevis (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- St. Lucia (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Sudan
- Surinam
- Syria
- Taiwan (Travelers must have a passport other than an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that includes the personal identification number.)
- Tajikistan
- Tanzania
- Thailand (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Timor-Leste
- Togo
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Tunisia
- Türkiye
- Turkmenistan
- Tuvalu
- Uganda
- Ukraine
- Uruguay (Some citizens may be eligible for an eTA if they meet certain requirements.)
- Uzbekistan
- Vanuatu
- Venezuela
- Vietnam
- Yemen
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
6. Why Might You Need to Provide Biometrics?
In many cases, you’ll need to provide your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) after you apply for a visa, work permit, study permit, or permanent residence.
You can find out who needs to give biometrics on the official Canadian government website.
7. What Do Workers and Students Need?
If you’re coming to Canada as a worker or student, you must meet all of Canada’s entry requirements. Remember that a work permit or study permit is not a visa. In most cases, you’ll also need a valid visitor visa or eTA to enter Canada.
If You’re Applying for Your First Study or Work Permit
If your application is approved, you will automatically be issued a visa or eTA, if you need one. When traveling to Canada, make sure you have:
- Your letter of introduction
- A valid passport or travel document:
- If you’re visa-required, it must contain the visa sticker that was put in it.
- If you need an eTA and you’re flying to a Canadian airport, it must be the passport that’s electronically linked to your eTA.
If You Already Have a Work or Study Permit
If you are visa-required, ensure that your visitor visa is still valid if you choose to leave Canada and re-enter. If you need an eTA and are flying to a Canadian airport, make sure you travel with the passport that’s electronically linked to your eTA. You must travel with your valid study or work permit, a valid passport, and a travel document.
If You’re Eligible to Work or Study Without a Permit
If you’re eligible to work or study in Canada without a permit, you are considered a visitor. You must meet the entry requirements for travelers from your country of citizenship.
8. What About Visiting Your Child or Grandchild in Canada?
If you’re the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible for a super visa. A super visa lets you visit your child or grandchild in Canada for up to 5 years at a time. This visa also allows for multiple entries to Canada and is valid for up to 10 years.
9. Traveling to Vietnam: A Seamless Experience with SIXT.VN
While this article focuses on traveling to Canada, if you are planning a trip to Vietnam, SIXT.VN offers a range of services to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Whether you need airport transfers, hotel bookings, tours, or flight arrangements, SIXT.VN is your one-stop solution.
SIXT.VN’s Comprehensive Travel Services
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Why Choose SIXT.VN?
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Explore Hanoi with SIXT.VN
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city rich in history and culture. With SIXT.VN, you can explore the best of Hanoi with ease.
- Hoan Kiem Lake: Visit the serene Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple.
Alt text: Scenic view of Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, Vietnam, with Ngoc Son Temple visible in the background.
- Old Quarter: Wander through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, known for its traditional shops and delicious street food.
Alt text: A vibrant street scene in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, showcasing the bustling atmosphere and traditional architecture.
- Temple of Literature: Discover the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university.
Alt text: An aerial perspective of the Temple of Literature in Hanoi, highlighting its traditional Vietnamese architecture and serene courtyards.
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SIXT.VN Packages and Services in Hanoi
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10. FAQs: Traveling to Canada as a Permanent Resident
1. Can a Canadian permanent resident travel to Canada without their PR card?
No, a valid PR card or PRTD is required for entry. Without it, you may face difficulties returning to Canada.
2. What if my PR card expires while I am outside Canada?
Apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) at the nearest Canadian visa office to return to Canada.
3. Can I use my expired PR card to travel to Canada?
An expired PR card is generally not accepted. You need a valid PR card or PRTD.
4. What if my PR card is lost or stolen while I am abroad?
Report the loss or theft to local authorities and apply for a PRTD at the nearest Canadian visa office.
5. Can a U.S. Green Card holder travel to Canada?
Yes, with a valid passport from their country of nationality and a valid Green Card.
6. Do I need an eTA if I am driving to Canada as a permanent resident of the U.S.?
No, an eTA is only required for air travel.
7. What is the difference between a visa and an eTA?
A visa is required for citizens of specific countries, while an eTA is an electronic authorization for visa-exempt travelers arriving by air.
8. Can I apply for an eTA if I have been denied a visa in the past?
A previous visa denial may affect your eTA application. It’s best to check the specific requirements and possibly apply for a visa instead.
9. How long is a Canadian super visa valid for?
A super visa is valid for up to 10 years and allows multiple entries, with each stay lasting up to 5 years.
10. Where can I find the most up-to-date information on Canadian travel requirements?
The official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website provides the most current and accurate information.
Conclusion: Plan Your Trip with Confidence
Navigating travel requirements can be complex, but with the right information and preparation, your trip to Canada or Vietnam can be seamless. Whether you’re a permanent resident heading to Canada or planning a visit to Vietnam, understanding the necessary documentation and procedures is key. Let SIXT.VN take care of the details, so you can focus on enjoying your journey.
Ready to start your adventure? Contact SIXT.VN today for personalized travel assistance!
Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/WhatsApp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN
By choosing SIXT.VN, you’re not just booking a service; you’re ensuring a travel experience that is convenient, reliable, and tailored to your needs. We’re here to make your travel dreams a reality!
