Isang magandang balita para sa ating mga kababayang nais magtungo sa bansang Canada matapos ihayag ng gobyerno nito na kabilang ang Pilipinas sa 13 bansa na kasama sa kanilang expanded visa-free travel program.
Ayon kay Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Sean Fraser, ang mga may hawak ng Canadian visa sa nakalipas na 10 taon, o United States non-immigrant visa, ay maaaring bumisita sa kanilang bansa “for leisure or business by applying for an electronic travel authorization or eTA instead of a visa when travelling to Canada by air.”
“This exciting development means that more individuals from the Philippines can now embark on unforgettable adventures, explore our diverse landscapes, reunite with family and friends, and immerse themselves in our vibrant culture without the hurdle of visa requirements,” ayon pa kay Fraser.
“This expansion not only enhances convenience for travellers; it will also increase travel, tourism and economic benefits, as well as strengthen our bond with the Philippines,” dagdag niya.
Sinabi naman ni Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly na ang naturang programa ay pagsuporta sa Indo-Pacific Strategy ng Canada, na layuning palakasin ang relasyon nito sa Indo-Pacific region, kabilang ang Pilipinas.
Ikinatuwa naman ng Department of Foreign Affairs ang inanunsyo ng Canada.
“The new policy is expected to spur travel, stimulate more business opportunities, and foster greater interest for family reunification efforts,” ayon sa pahayag ng DFA.
Tinatayang halos isang milyon umano ang Filipino na nagtatrabaho at naninirahan sa Canada.