Can Green Card Holders Enter Canada? [2025-2026 Guide]

TL;DR: Yes, Green Card holders (U.S. Permanent Residents) can enter Canada, but they need either an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) or a visa, depending on how they travel. Flying requires an eTA, while land/sea entry does not. Always check IRCC’s latest rules before crossing.

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Do Green Card Holders Need a Visa for Canada?

No, but air travelers need an eTA.
Green Card holders enjoy visa exemptions for short visits (up to 6 months) under Canada’s entry rules. However, if arriving by air, you must apply for a CAD $7 eTA online before boarding. Land or sea entries (e.g., driving from the U.S.) require only a valid passport and Green Card.

Key facts:

• eTA validity: 5 years or until passport expiry.
• Processing time: Most eTAs are approved within minutes.
• Exemptions: No eTA needed if entering via land/sea.

According to IRCC’s official eTA page{:target="_blank"}, over 99% of applications are processed within 24 hours.

Pro Tip: Use Evola AI’s Immigration Success Predictor{:target="_blank"} to assess your entry eligibility based on travel history and documents.

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What Documents Are Required for Entry?

A valid passport and Green Card are mandatory.
Border officers may ask for proof of ties to the U.S. (e.g., employment, home ownership) to ensure you won’t overstay. While not always required, carry:

• Return flight tickets (if flying).
• Bank statements or proof of funds.
• Travel itinerary.

Evola’s AI mentor can generate a customized checklist for your specific travel scenario in seconds.

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Can Green Card Holders Work or Study in Canada?

No, not without a Canadian permit.
The eTA/visa exemption only covers tourism, business meetings, or transit. For work or study, you’ll need:

• Work Permit: Employer-specific or open (LMIA may apply).
• Study Permit: Acceptance letter from a Canadian institution.

Check IRCC’s work permit page{:target="_blank"} for updated requirements.

Exception: Some Green Card holders qualify for CUSMA (formerly NAFTA) work permits in certain professions.

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How Long Can Green Card Holders Stay in Canada?

Up to 6 months per entry.
The border officer determines the exact duration (shown on your entry stamp). Extensions require applying to IRCC{:target="_blank"} 30 days before expiry.

Warning: Overstaying bans you from future visits. Track your stay with Evola’s CRS Calculator{:target="_blank"}, which includes a built-in visa expiry alert.

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Can Green Card Holders Apply for Canadian PR?

Yes, but it’s a separate process.
Having a Green Card doesn’t grant privileges in Canada’s immigration system. Common pathways include:

• Express Entry: Requires eligibility under FSW, CEC, or FST programs.
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Regional labor market needs.

Key Difference: Unlike the U.S., Canada prioritizes CRS scores. Calculate yours instantly here{:target="_blank"}.

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Final Thoughts

Green Card holders enjoy smoother entry to Canada than most travelers, but rules vary by transport mode and purpose. Always verify requirements with official sources or Evola’s AI policy tracker to avoid last-minute surprises.

Ready to explore your Canadian immigration options? Start with Evola’s free tools today{:target="_blank"}.