For people holding an Aruban passport, there are different requirements for different types of Canada visas. Some of them are listed down below, to help the reader gain a little insight into the application process. In this way, you can now check out all the required documents that one needs to submit in order to acquire a Canada visa for Aruba passport holders.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) for less than 180 days:
Aruban passport holders are exempted from visa requirements for traveling to Canada. Citizens of an independent country in the Netherlands, Aruban passport holders do not need a visa if traveling to Canada for purposes of tourism, business, medical, or transit. The only mandatory requirement is an online visa, or Electronic Travel Authorisation (eta). The stay can be extended up to a maximum period of 180 days (approximately 6 months). The application for the eta is to be made directly to Canada, at least 72 hours prior to the date of departure. Moreover, the applicant should possess an Aruban passport which is valid at the time of departure. This is applicable regardless of the reason for travel.
An Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) is required for traveling to Canada by air, or to transit through a Canadian airport. It is electronically linked to the applicant's passport and remains valid up to 5 years (or until the passport expired, whichever comes first). People holding an Aruban passport are not required to present an eTA in case traveling by bus, car, train, or boat (including a cruise).
- To apply for an eTA, visit the official site for the same. Keep your passport and credit/debit card ready.
- Fill out the application form available on the website.
- After completion of the form, pay the visa fee.
- Most applications receive approval by email within minutes, but in some cases, the approval may take several days.
- Once your eTA is approved, verify that your passport number is correct. If not, you need to apply for a new passport.
- An eTA doesn't guarantee entry into Canada. On arrival, a Border Officer will check your passport and other documents. You will be allowed to enter the country only upon convincing the officer that you are eligible to enter.
READ ALSO: Canada visa policy
Work or Study visas for Canada:
If planning to reside in Canada for study or work purposes, Aruba passport holders need to apply for a visa or permit, instead of an eTA. The requirements for the same are similar to that appliable in other countries.
Work permits:
Work permits are of two types:
- Employer specific permits: The application for the same must include the details of the employer, the employment period, and the location of employment. Before such a permit is granted, the employer needs to complete some formalities.
- Open work permits: The allow the holder to work for any employer, except those listed as ineligible.
All applicants are expected to:
- Prove to the officer that they will leave the country upon expiry of their permit
- Prove that they have enough money/resources to take care of themselves and their family
- Obey the laws
- Not be a threat to Canada's security
- Be in good mental and physical health
- Provide any necessary documents
The Canadian visa office for Aruba applicants is located in Mexico City, and the mandatory documents required for application include
- Application form for a work permit
- Photocopy of the information page of your passport
- Passport size photographs
- Photocopies of marriage license/certificate
- Family information form
READ ALSO: Canada visa application
Study permits:
People who wish to pursue an education in Canada need to apply for a study permit. These permits are generally valid till the applicant's course of study lasts, along with an additional 90 days. There are three major scenarios that arise:
- When the application is for prerequisite courses: These are courses that are required to be taken before the university to which you're applying, enrolls you in the main program (conditional admission). Visas granted in such situations last for the duration of the course, and you need to apply for an extension when you get enrolled in the main program.
- If your course extends beyond the date of expiry of your visa: You need to apply for an extension in such a case
- If your course finishes before your visa expires: No matter the date printed on your visa, it will expire the date you finish your course. You will have an additional 90 days to apply for an extension or for a fresh visa.
The permit is granted only if the applicant:
- Is enrolled it a designated learning institution
- Proves that they have enough money to pay for their tuition, living expenses, and return expenses
- Obeys the citizenship laws
- Is in good physical and mental health
- Proves to the officer that they will leave the country upon the expiry of their permit
Due to the COVID pandemic, even people visiting the country for less than 6 months for studying, need a study permit.
While applying, the applicants typically need to present copies of their acceptance certificates, identity proofs, and proofs of financial support. Other documents may be needed on a case-by-case basis. The identity proofs can include passports, while the financial proofs may require you to prove that you will be able to meet certain prerequisite amounts, based on the number of people visiting, and the location.
It is advisable to apply for study permits online, after going through the information guide.
READ ALSO: How to apply for a Canada E Visa
Conclusion:
Depending on the reason and duration of their visit to Canada, Aruba passport holders need to undergo different procedures and formalities while applying. A Canada visa for Aruba passport holders is not required while traveling to Canada for travel, medical issues, or business. However, work and study permits are needed for people seeking to settle in Canada for extended periods. The requirements for these permits are the same for Aruban Citizens as for people from other countries.
