Traveling to Canada from the US as a Green Card Holder: Do I Need a Visa?

Embarking on a journey to Canada, whether for the breathtaking sights of the Rockies, the urban pulse of Toronto, or the cultural mosaic of Montreal, is an exciting endeavor. For travelers from the US, including those holding a Green Card, understanding the nuanced entry requirements, such as the need for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa, is essential for a seamless experience. This guide demystifies the travel prerequisites, ensuring your Canadian escapade begins without a hitch.

Updated May 2024: This Article “In a Nutshell” section is updated with the latest information.

Updated April 2024: This Article is updated with the latest information. Thanks to Ron (From the comments section) for stating the updated information from Canada Immigration.

Delve Into the Basics: eTA or Visa?

Before packing your bags and dreaming of Canadian landscapes, determining whether you need an eTA or a visitor visa is crucial. Your requirement hinges on how you plan to enter Canada and your citizenship status.

Who Needs an eTA for Canada?

• Visa-exempt foreign nationals flying or transiting through Canadian airports must have an eTA, except when arriving by land or sea.
• Citizens from selected visa-required countries may be eligible for an eTA if traveling to Canada by air. This does not apply if entering by land, bus, train, or boat.

Specific Requirements for Various Traveler Categories:

• Dual Canadian Citizens: Must travel with a valid Canadian passport.
• American-Canadians: Possess the flexibility to travel with either a valid Canadian or U.S. passport.
• Canadian Permanent Residents: Exempt from needing an eTA or visitor visa, but must carry a valid permanent resident card or travel document. Remember, Permanent Resident (PR) status does not expire. If you’ve previously lived in Canada, verify your status to prevent travel delays.
• Visa-Required Travelers: Those requiring a visitor visa cannot replace it with an eTA. This includes alien passport holders and stateless individuals.
• U.S. Citizens: A valid U.S. passport is mandatory for travel.

Detailed Guide for Lawful Permanent Residents of the U.S.

Since April 26, 2022, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) of the U.S. need to present specific documents for all travel methods to Canada, embracing the spirit of adventure with legality and ease.

Essential Documents Include:

• A valid passport or equivalent travel document.
• A valid green card or equivalent proof of U.S. status.

A comprehensive list of acceptable status documents for LPRs ranges from valid permanent resident cards to specific forms indicating pending immigration statuses.

1. Valid Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551): This is the commonly known Green Card, which serves as proof of your lawful permanent resident status in the United States.
2. Foreign Passport with an Unexpired Temporary I-551 Stamp: Also referred to as an Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunication (ADIT) stamp, which temporarily evidences your permanent resident status.
3. Foreign Passport with a Temporary I-551 Printed Notation: When your passport carries this notation, it means it serves as a temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year, acknowledged upon endorsement with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection admission stamp.
4. 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): This combination indicates that a renewal or removal of conditions on residence is in process.
5. Expired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for Pending Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status): This is relevant for those under the investor program looking to remove conditions on their permanent resident status.
6. 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]): This indicates an application for a Green Card replacement is underway.
7. Valid Re-entry Permit (Form I-327): This document is essential for permanent residents planning to leave the U.S. for a prolonged period; it helps prevent abandonment of residency status.
8. Form I-94 with an Unexpired Temporary I-551 Stamp (ADIT Stamp) and a Passport-Style Photo: This is used for entry into the U.S. and, when accompanied by a photo, serves as temporary evidence of lawful permanent resident status.

Each of these documents plays a crucial role in confirming your status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., especially when planning travel to Canada. Ensure you have the appropriate documents ready and in good condition to facilitate smooth travel.

Navigating the Entry Essentials:

To soak in the Canadian majesty, ensuring your travel checklist is complete is paramount. The essentials include:

• A valid travel document, like a passport.
• Being in good health and having no criminal or immigration-related convictions.
• Convincing a border services officer of your ties to your home country and intention to return.
• Having sufficient funds for your stay.

Biometrics and Entry:

The modern traveler’s journey often includes a biometric step—fingerprints and a photo after application—central to the visa or eTA process.

An eTA or visitor visa is your passport to the wonders of Canada, but it’s the preparation that ensures a journey free from hurdles. For U.S. citizens and Green Card holders, understanding the nuanced requirements paves the way for an experience as vast and welcoming as Canada itself. As policies and procedures evolve, keeping abreast of the latest travel advisories is key. With your documents in order, Canada’s warm embrace is just a border away. Prepare for an enriching journey across the expanse of the True North, where every visit unfolds into a story worth telling. Safe travels, and welcome to Canada – a land of beauty, diversity, and opportunity.

This Article in a Nutshell:

Traveling to Canada from the U.S. requires understanding the specific entry requirements, whether you need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa. Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an eTA if flying, while visa-required travelers need a visitor visa. U.S. citizens need a valid passport. U.S. Green Card holders must present a valid passport and proof of U.S. status, such as a Green Card or temporary I-551 stamp. Ensure you have the correct documents, are in good health, have no criminal convictions, and possess sufficient funds for your stay. Stay updated on travel advisories for a smooth journey to Canada.