Canada announced on June 20 that South Korean citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days beginning August 1 2026. Applicants must still obtain an electronic Travel Authorization in advance through the official IRCC portal. The policy applies to tourism business and short study visits under six months.
Current visa-free access stands at 30 days for South Koreans. Officials cited strong post-pandemic travel recovery and reciprocal agreements with Seoul as key drivers. Numbers show over 400000 South Korean visitors arrived in Canada last year.
Background includes Canada's broader effort to simplify entry for key Asian markets after similar extensions to Japan and Australia in 2025. The move aligns with updated immigration targets aiming for 1.2 million visitors from South Korea by 2028.
Stakeholders in Vancouver and Toronto tourism boards welcomed the extension as it supports longer itineraries including Rocky Mountain rail journeys and Atlantic coast stays.
What this means for you
Book flights now for September departures to secure lower fares before summer peaks. Apply for your eTA at least 72 hours before travel and confirm passport validity exceeds six months beyond your return date. Avoid overstaying as fines start at CAD 5000 for violations.
Consider multi-city itineraries combining Toronto festivals with Banff hiking to maximize the 90-day window. Monitor IRCC updates for any sudden health screening additions.
Longer stays will reshape summer 2027 planning as more travelers combine Canada with Alaska cruises or US road trips.