Canada rule change means some Hongkongers will need to apply for permit before travel
New ‘electronic travel authorisation’ is part of security push
Hongkongers holding SAR or British National (Overseas) passports will need to obtain extra documentation before flying to Canada, as Ottawa tightens its visa-free arrangements worldwide.
The new policy will require passengers to apply online for an “electronic travel authorisation”. It will take effect from March 15, according to the Canadian government.
Prospective travellers have until March 15 to submit passport and other personal information through Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s website for pre-screening. Without the documentation, travellers face being denied entry when the border enforcement kicks in.
The authorisation covers all foreign nationals except US citizens. Hong Kong – though branded as a partner of “productive cooperation” on the country’s consulate website and home to one of the largest Canadian communities abroad – is not exempted from the scheme.
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Half a million people of Hong Kong descent live in Canada, according to the consulate here.
Canadians do not require a visa to travel to Hong Kong.