Canada eTA for Indonesian and Malaysian Travellers: Eligibility and Routes

Editorial update — October 19, 2026. This article now explains the eligibility conditions and air-travel scope of the May 2026 change. It is not a new October visa-waiver announcement.

When did the change take effect?

IRCC announced the measure on May 25, 2026. It took effect May 26 at 5:30 a.m. Eastern Time, allowing eligible Indonesian and Malaysian citizens to apply for an electronic travel authorization instead of a visitor visa for air travel.

Who may apply?

Under IRCC's eligibility guidance, applicants must meet all three conditions:

• Have held a Canadian visitor visa within the previous 10 years, or hold a US nonimmigrant visa valid on the eTA application date.
• Be coming for a temporary stay, normally up to six months.
• Fly to or transit through a Canadian airport using a valid passport from an eligible country.

What about land or sea travel?

This eTA route does not replace the visitor-visa requirement for travellers arriving by car, bus, train or boat, including cruise ships. Travellers who do not meet the eTA conditions need the appropriate visa.

Already have a valid Canadian visa?

IRCC says travellers with a valid Canadian visitor visa can continue using it until it expires. An approved eTA is linked to the passport used to apply; a new passport requires a new eTA. Check each family member's documents separately before booking travel.