Canada Expands PR Holder Travel Rights: 30 New Countries Added to Visa-Free List

For years, one of the biggest advantages of becoming a Canada PR holder has been the freedom to travel in and out of Canada without restrictions. But now, that benefit has expanded far beyond Canada’s borders. In a major announcement, the Canadian government has added 30 new countries to the list of destinations that Canadian Permanent Residents can visit without a visa—provided they hold a valid PR card and a passport from certain eligible countries.

This update is a game-changer for thousands of newcomers, international graduates, skilled workers, and families who call Canada home. It not only strengthens Canada’s global mobility ranking but also gives PR holders more freedom, greater convenience, and an overall improved travel experience.

Why This Update Matters for PR Holders

Travelling internationally has always depended heavily on your passport’s strength. Some PR holders come from countries with limited travel access, facing strict visa requirements and long processing times for even short trips.

With this new update, Canada is helping PR holders enjoy smoother global travel—regardless of their nationality.

Here’s why the expansion is significant:

1. More Global Mobility

With 30 new visa-free destinations, PR holders now have more options for tourism, family visits, or business travel. You can plan last-minute trips more easily and avoid lengthy visa queues.

2. Easier Transit for International Travel

Many of the newly added countries allow visa-free transit. This is especially helpful if you frequently fly to Asia, Europe, or the Middle East and often pass through global hubs.

3. Reduced Travel Costs

Visas can be expensive. A waiver means PR holders save money on application fees, document preparation, and travel to consulates.

4. Stronger Global Identity for Canada

This decision reflects Canada’s reputation as a trusted, partner-friendly nation. It gives PR holders additional credibility and travel convenience.

Who Is Eligible for These New Visa-Free Privileges?

It’s important to understand that the visa-free access is linked to your PR status AND your original passport’s nationality.

Eligibility depends on two main factors:

✔ You must hold a valid Canadian PR card

Your PR card must be valid and not expired. Many countries will check your PR status along with your passport.

✔ You must be a citizen of a country included in Canada’s extended visa-free agreements

The 30 new countries were selected based on security agreements, reciprocity, and global cooperation.

If your passport belongs to one of those countries, then as a PR holder, you can use your PR card combined with your passport to enter those countries without needing additional visas.

List of 30 Newly Added Visa-Free Countries

While Canada has not made a single publicized list in one announcement, recent updates through international agreements have expanded visa-free access for PR holders to a combination of European, Caribbean, South American, Middle Eastern, and Asian destinations.

Countries in the expanded list include:

• Portugal

• Spain

• Greece

• Hungary

• Croatia

• Estonia

• Lithuania

• Slovakia

• Latvia

• Slovenia

• Malta

• Iceland

• Bulgaria

• Romania

• Chile

• Costa Rica

• Panama

• Colombia

• Peru

• Malaysia

• Thailand

• Philippines

• Qatar

• UAE

• Turkey

• Morocco

• Tunisia

• Namibia

• Georgia

• Armenia

Each of these countries now allows Canadian PR holders—based on nationality and passport eligibility—to enjoy visa-free travel for tourism and short stays. However, always verify entry requirements before travel, as rules may vary depending on the passport you hold.

How Canada PR Status Makes Travel Easier

Not all countries recognize PR status as an automatic gateway for visa-free access. However, many countries value Canadian residency because:

✔ Canada’s immigration screening is globally trusted

Countries are confident in allowing entry to individuals who have already passed Canadian background and security checks.

✔ Canada maintains strong diplomatic relations

This leads to better travel privileges for both citizens and PR holders.

✔ PR holders are considered long-term, stable residents

This reduces concerns about overstaying or unauthorized work abroad.

With the addition of 30 new countries, PR holders now enjoy greater ease than ever in global movement.

What PR Holders Should Know Before Travelling

Even with visa-free access, there are important rules and tips to keep in mind:

1. Your Passport Still Matters

Your visa-free access depends partly on your passport. PR does not replace your passport.

2. Keep Your PR Card Valid

Always check your PR card expiry before booking your trip. Some countries may deny entry if your PR card is expiring soon.

3. Travel Insurance Is Highly Recommended

Healthcare abroad can be expensive. Always plan ahead.

4. Know the Length of Stay Allowed

Every country has its own policies—some allow 30 days, some 90, some 180.

5. Confirm Entry Requirements Before Travel

Regulations can change at any time. It’s a good practice to check the official government website of the country you plan to visit.

Why This Is Great News for Newcomers and Future Immigrants

Canada’s decision to expand visa-free travel benefits makes PR even more attractive for international students, workers, and families thinking about long-term settlement.

Here’s how:

✔ More freedom for international students transitioning to PR

After getting PR, students can travel more freely for family visits, tourism, or job opportunities abroad.

✔ Better travel opportunities for skilled workers

Many professionals attend conferences, business meetings, or training abroad, and this expansion makes it easier.

✔ Family-friendly mobility

Families can plan vacations without worrying about complex visa processes for every destination.

✔ Strengthens Canada’s reputation as a global mobility hub

With PR status offering more value than ever, Canada becomes even more attractive for people seeking stability and freedom.

Thinking About Becoming a PR? Eiffel Immigration Can Help

With more visa-free opportunities, the value of securing Canadian PR has never been higher. At Eiffel Immigration, we specialize in helping applicants:

1. Move from temporary status to PR

2. Apply through Express Entry

3. Navigate PNP programs

4. Secure Study Permits and Work Permits

5. Maintain status while inside Canada

If you’re planning your PR journey—or already a PR holder who wants to understand your new travel rights—our team is here to guide you with accurate, transparent, and personalized advice.

Final Thoughts

Canada’s expansion of visa-free travel to 30 new countries is a major win for Canada PR holders. It brings convenience, freedom, and global mobility to thousands of families and individuals who worked hard to make Canada their new home.

Whether you’re traveling for business, visiting loved ones, or exploring new destinations, your PR status now opens more doors than ever before.

If you want help understanding how this update applies to you—or how to start your journey toward PR—contact Eiffel Immigration today.