Latest news with #eTA
Time of India
4 days ago
- Time of India
Moving to Canada? 10 things you should totally know before you go
So, you're thinking of making the big move to Canada? Whether you're chasing the dream of free healthcare, cozy winters, or just really love maple syrup, the Great White North has a ton to offer. But before you pack your bags and start Googling the best poutine in town, here are 10 things you really should know to make your move as smooth as fresh snow. Immigration isn't a breeze (sorry!) Yes, Canada's friendly—but getting in isn't a cakewalk. Depending on where you're from, you'll need either a TRV (Temporary Resident Visa) or an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter. Want to work or study? That's a whole different application. So, start the paperwork early and keep your documents neat and ready. English or French? Both, actually English is everywhere, sure—but in places like Quebec, French is the main language. Even outside Quebec, speaking both can open more doors job-wise. If you're rusty, no worries—Canada has plenty of language classes and community programs to help you brush up. No credit history? That's a thing In Canada, credit is a big deal. No credit = tougher time renting, getting a phone plan, or applying for loans. Start building credit ASAP: get a bank account, grab a secured credit card, and pay your bills on time. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Soluções de energia de confiança para Data Centers de IA Siemens Energy Read More Undo Simple, but super important. Winter is coming. And it's real. Let's be real—Canadian winters can be brutal. In places like Winnipeg or Regina, it's not uncommon to see -40°C. So, invest in proper winter gear: think warm boots, thick coats, and layers. That said, summers can be pretty hot, too. Pack for all four seasons! Healthcare is free-ish Yep, Canada has universal healthcare—but that doesn't mean instant service. Wait times, especially for specialists, can be long. Also, you need to apply for your provincial health card as soon as you arrive. Some provinces have waiting periods, so private insurance for the first few months is a smart move. Your wallet will notice the difference Cost of living really depends on where you land. Toronto and Vancouver? Pricey. Smaller cities like Halifax or Winnipeg? Much easier on the wallet. Do your research, and build a budget that includes housing, food, and fun. Driving around? Here's the deal You can drive with your current license for a bit (usually 60–90 days), but eventually you'll need to switch to a Canadian one. Public transit is decent in most cities, but outside the downtown core, a car can make life way easier. Jobs? It's all about who you know Canada has jobs, but landing one can take time. Networking is key—attend meetups, use LinkedIn, and join industry groups. Heads-up: your qualifications might not transfer automatically. You may need to get them assessed or take extra courses. Be nice, join the fun Canadians are known for being polite, inclusive, and big fans of hockey. Jump into the local culture—go to community events, try Tim Hortons, and don't be shy to say 'hi' to neighbors. The more you embrace the lifestyle, the easier the transition. Nature is your new best friend Seriously, Canada is stunning. From mountains to forests to lakes, there's no shortage of adventure. Go hiking, skiing, canoeing—whatever floats your boat. The outdoors isn't just beautiful here; it's a big part of life. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Observer
4 days ago
- Observer
What are the options for visa-free entry for Omanis?
MUSCAT: The summer outbound travel season begins in the Sultanate of Oman, but citizens are required to take note of the distinct visa requirements of each destination. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently announced a new visa-free entry policy for citizens of four Gulf countries: Oman, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Bahrain. from June 9, 2025, to June 8, 2026, allowing ordinary passport holders from the four countries to enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. The Foreign Ministry said that the mutual visa exemption agreement between the Sultanate of Oman and the Russian Federation will be effective upon completion of the necessary procedures by both parties. According to options include visiting without a prior visa, visa-on-arrival countries and Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) countries. Oman passport holders can travel without a visa to the following countries that include Albania, Bahamas, Bahrain, Barbados, Belarus, Botswana, Brunei, Cayman Islands, Colombia, Cook Islands, Dominica, Ecuador, Egypt, Georgia, Haiti, Hong Kong, Iran, Kazakhstan, Jordan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyztan, Lebanon, Malaysia, Mauritius, Micronesia, Morocco, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, South Korea, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Syria, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tunisia, Ukraine, the UAE, Uzbekistan, Türkiye and Zambia among others. Omani nationals are eligible for a visa on arrival in the following 34 countries, some of which include Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Iraq, Maldives, Nepal, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and Yemen. Oman passport holders are eligible to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before visiting the following 3 countries (Kenya, New Zealand and the United Kingdom). An eTA is a digital travel document required for eligible travellers who are visa-exempt for a specific countr, and it can be obtained online before travel. Omanis are required to apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) before travelling to 32 countries, including Bhutan, India, South Africa, Taiwan, Uganda and Vietnam. Oman passport holders need to apply for a regular visa before travelling to around 113 countries, including those in the Schengen area. "Visa processing times, fees and required documents vary by the traveller's nationality and the destination country. Marita Bachhav, regional head of VFS Global, which processes visa documents and collects applications for most countries, said that Europe remains a popular destination for travellers from Oman and demand for visas, especially during peak travel seasons like summer holidays, is higher than other times of the year. "Travellers can apply for Schengen visas up to six months before the intended date of travel and we urge applicants to plan and apply for their visas well in advance to avoid any delays," she said. According to GCC or Oman residents can travel without a visa or with a visa on arrival to Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Indonesia, Jordan, Maldives, Nepal, Seychelles, Tanzania and Zanzibar, apart from countries within the GCC.
Observer
6 days ago
- Observer
China offers visa-free entry for Omanis. What are the other options?
Muscat: The summer outbound travel season begins in the Sultanate of Oman, but citizens are required to take note of the distinct visa requirements of each destination. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced a new visa-free entry policy for citizens of four Gulf countries: Oman, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. from June 9, 2025, to June 8, 2026, allowing ordinary passport holders from the four countries to enter China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. The Foreign Ministry has said that Omanis that the mutual visa exemption agreement between the Sultanate of Oman and the Russian Federation will be effective upon completion of the necessary procedures by both parties. According to options include visiting without a prior visa, visa-on-arrival countries, and Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) countries. Oman passport holders can travel without a visa to the following countries that include Albania, Bahamas, Bahrain, Barbados, Belarus, Botswana, Brunei, Cayman Islands, Colombia, Cook Islands, Dominica, Ecuador, Egypt, Georgia, Haiti, Hong Kong, Iran, Kazakhstan, Jordan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyztan, Lebanon, Malaysia, Mauritius, Micronesia, Morocco, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, South Korea, and the Grenadines, Suriname, Syria, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tunisia, Ukraine, the UAE, Uzebkistan and Türkiye and Zambia among others. Omani nationals are eligible for a visa on arrival in the following 34 countries, including which include Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Iraq, Maldives, Nepal, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Yemen. As per upon arrival at the immigration checkpoint in the destination country, travelers may need to complete the requisite paperwork, provide any necessary documentation, and pay the visa fee. In most cases, a visa can be obtained at the airport or border crossing point upon arrival. Fees, validity, and allowed duration of stay may vary. Upon arrival at the immigration checkpoint in the destination country, travelers may need to complete the requisite paperwork, provide any necessary documentation, and pay the relevant visa fee. The immigration officer will subsequently issue the visa, granting the visitor authorization to enter and remain in the country for the specified duration and purpose. Oman passport holders are eligible to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before visiting the following 3 countries (Kenya, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom). An eTA is a digital travel document required for eligible travelers who are visa-exempt for a specific country, and it can be obtained online before travel. Omanis are required to apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) before traveling to 32 countries, including Bhutan, India, South Africa, Taiwan, Uganda, and Vietnam. Oman passport holders need to apply for a regular visa before traveling to around 113 countries, including those in the Schengen area. "Visa processing times, fees, and required documents vary by the traveler's nationality and the destination country. To obtain a visa, travelers generally need to apply at the destination country's embassy or consulate in their country of origin or country of residence, providing required documents such as a passport, photographs, itinerary, proof of financial means, and other relevant information. It is important to check the specific visa requirements for your destination country before planning your trip to ensure that you have the appropriate documents and permissions for your visit," said. Marita Bachhav, regional head of VFS Global, which processes visa documents and collects applications for most countries, told the Observer that Europe remains a popular destination for travellers from Oman and demand for visas, especially during peak travel seasons like summer holidays, is higher than other times of the year. "Travellers can apply for Schengen visas up to six months before the intended date of travel, and we urge applicants to plan and apply for their visas well in advance to avoid any delays," she said. According to GCC or Oman residents can travel without a visa or with a visa on arrival to Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Indonesia, Jordan, Maldives, Nepal, Seychelles, Tanzania, and Zanzibar, apart from countries within the GCC.
Express Tribune
10-04-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Travelling to Canada? Citizens of these 13 countries can now skip the visa
Listen to article The Canadian government has expanded its electronic travel authorisation (eTA) programme to include eligible travellers from 13 additional countries, allowing for easier and faster access to Canada without a visa. The announcement was made by Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, who said the move aims to strengthen Canada's international ties and streamline travel for thousands of visitors. 'This expansion will make it faster, easier, and more affordable for thousands of travellers to visit Canada for up to six months,' Fraser said. 'It will also help lighten the visa caseload and improve processing times for all applicants.' The new countries added to the eTA programme are: Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Costa Rica, Morocco, Panama, the Philippines, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Seychelles, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, and Uruguay. To qualify, applicants must either have held a Canadian temporary resident visa in the last 10 years or currently hold a valid US non-immigrant visa. The eTA applies only to air travel for tourism or business purposes. The application process is online, requires a valid passport, email address, internet access, and a credit card. The fee is CAD$7 (around US$5), and most approvals are issued 'within minutes,' according to Fraser. Travellers who are not eligible for an eTA or who are entering Canada by land or sea—such as by car, train, or cruise ship—will still need a visitor visa. The government said the update not only promotes travel and tourism but is also expected to contribute to Canada's economy through increased international business and reduced administrative burdens on immigration services. Travellers can visit to check their eligibility and apply.
