In an exciting development for entrepreneurs and startup visa founders, Canada has expanded its list of visa-free travel countries. The new policy, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), allows eligible travellers from 13 additional countries to visit Canada without a visa. This update not only brings convenience and flexibility to international travelers but also offers significant benefits for startup visa founders and their families. Let’s explore how this new initiative streamlines the process for Startup Visa Founder’s families from these countries to visit and support their loved ones in Canada.
The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the addition of 13 countries to the electronic travel authorization (eTA) program. Travellers from these countries who have either held a Canadian visa in the last 10 years or who currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa can now apply for an eTA instead of a visa when travelling to Canada by air. Effective today, eligible travellers from these countries can benefit from the program:
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Costa Rica
- Morocco
- Panama
- Philippines
- St. Kitts and Nevis
- St. Lucia
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines
- Seychelles
- Thailand
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Uruguay
Visa-Free Travel: A Boon for Canada Startup Visa Founders’ Families: The expanded list of visa-free travel countries opens up new possibilities for families of Startup Visa founders. This means that family members from these countries can now visit their loved ones in Canada more easily, fostering stronger connections and support networks for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Enhanced Entrepreneurial Environment: The availability of visa-free travel for Startup Visa founders’ friends and families creates a more supportive environment for entrepreneurial success. It allows families to spend quality time together, strengthening bonds and providing emotional support during the critical early stages of a startup venture. A recent study from Forbes found seventy-two percent of founders indicated entrepreneurship has impacted their mental health, and 37% suffer from anxiety. The ability for family members to easily visit can have an extremely positive impact.
The expansion of visa-free travel is an exciting development that benefits not only tourists but also Startup Visa founders and their families. This policy change facilitates smoother and more frequent visits, enabling families to actively participate in the entrepreneurial journey and support their loved ones. The resulting cultural exchange, innovation, educational opportunities, and personal growth contribute to a thriving startup ecosystem in Canada. As the country continues to embrace entrepreneurship and global talent, this initiative reinforces Canada’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for startup founders and their families.
Remember, the world is your oyster, and Canada is ready to welcome you and your entrepreneurial dreams with open arms.
