Program delivery update: New electronic travel authorization (eTA) requirement for marine mode for travellers coming directly from Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon
This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by IRCC staff. It is posted on the department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders.
June 5, 2026
Canada has introduced an electronic travel authorization (eTA) requirement for travellers coming to Canada by vessel directly from Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, unless exempt. This is the first time the eTA requirement applies to visa-exempt foreign nationals beyond air mode. Visa-exempt foreign nationals will need to apply and be approved for an eTA using the existing eTA online application form. A foreign national with a valid eTA does not need to apply for a new one to travel by vessel from Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon to Canada.
There are two new exemptions specific to the eTA requirement for marine mode:
- Cruise ships: The new eTA requirement will not apply to foreign nationals aboard vessels that enter Canada directly from Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon if they have overnight accommodations for at least 100 people, excluding crew accommodations.
- Vessel crew members: The new eTA requirement will not apply to crew members seeking to enter Canada from Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon as a member of a vessel’s crew and remain in Canada solely as a member of the crew of that vessel or another vessel.
Additionally, all existing exemptions to the eTA requirement for air mode are maintained in this new marine mode requirement. Existing eTA exemptions include, but are not limited to:
- citizens and lawful permanent residents of the U.S.,
- citizens of France residing in Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon seeking to enter Canada directly from Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, and
- foreign nationals with status in Canada seeking to re-enter Canada, within their period of authorized stay, following a visit solely to Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon. This exemption, commonly referred to as the contiguous territory exemption, applies to foreign nationals who travelled from Canada to Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon and who are seeking to re-enter Canada before their period of authorized stay in Canada expires.
eTA expansion - Citizens of select visa-required countries who are eligible for an eTA in air mode will continue to require a visa if arriving by vessel directly from Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon.