Canada, 4th September: New Canada Passport rules for dual citizens have been announced.
Yes, that’s true.
“New Canada passport rules for dual citizens will become effective from 30th September, 2016”.
New rules will have electronic screening system for increased border security and boosting exit control of travellers. This includes Canadians on government benefits too.
New rules discriminatory--Many Canadian citizens with dual citizenships have been surprised. They allege that new Canada passport rules for dual citizens are discriminatory. They also say that it’s a sheer step for grabbing money by Canada government. It will create havoc for many air travelers(Canada citizens with dual citizenships) since they will be finding this at the last minute only.
It’s a bad policy on several fronts, says Sandi Logan, a Canadian expatriate. The requirement does not make any sense since it is only for air travellers as opposed to those coming by land or sea.
Official spokesperson for IRCC, Lindsay Wemp said that the government is implementing a new electronic process for helping airlines verify travellers about required documents.
All air carriers shall have to make sure that all air travellers to Canada have proof of identity and proof of citizenship. Hence, a valid Canadian passport is required for Canadian citizens. It’s the only travel document for air travel, the official spokesperson said.
Prior to new rules—Prior to new rules, Canadian citizens with dual citizenships could use any other nation’s passport for entering Canada by air if had proof of Canada residency(like Canada citizenship card and driver’s license).
It may be worth notable that last year, eTA system was launched by Canada. It requires air travellers(including applicants for work permits or study permits and those from nations not requiring any visa for coming to Canada) to provide biographic, passport and other personal information through Canada immigration website.
Canadian citizens not eligible for eTA from 30th September—From 30th September this year, Canadian citizens shall not be eligible for eTA . That’s because they shall have to possess Canadian passports.