Canada expanded visa-free air travel eligibility for Malaysians effective May 26, 2026, enabling qualifying travelers to use an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) instead of applying for a visa when flying to or transiting through Canada by air using a valid Malaysian passport [1, 2]. The new policy took effect at 5:30 a.m. Eastern Time on that day [2].
Eligible Malaysians include those who have held a Canadian temporary resident visa within the past 10 years or currently hold a valid US non-immigrant visa [1, 2]. The eTA, once granted, is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever is earlier [1]. Travelers can stay temporarily in Canada for up to six months under this arrangement [1, 2].
However, Malaysians entering Canada by land, bus, train, or sea—including cruise ships—must still apply for a regular temporary resident visa [2].
The measure aims to boost Canada-Malaysia ties by expanding partnerships and people-to-people connections, as well as trade, investment, and economic cooperation within the Indo-Pacific region [1, 2]. The High Commission of Canada in Kuala Lumpur said the change "reflects strengthening ties between Canada and Malaysia and aims to expand partnerships as well as people-to-people connections" [1].
Malaysia is Canada’s largest bilateral merchandise trade partner in Southeast Asia. Bilateral trade grew 60% from USD 3.8 billion in 2020 to USD 6.1 billion in 2025 [2]. Canada received approximately 11,500 travellers from Malaysia in 2025 [2].
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Minister Lina Metlege said Canada is "working to attract the world’s best talent, strengthen global partnerships, and create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and workers" [2].
