November 1, 2016

Canada to Lift Visa Requirements for Romanian and Bulgarian Citizens Effective December 1, 2017

Posted by Fabiola Arevalo - Bellissimo Law Group PC

John McCallum, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced today the Government of Canada’s intention to lift the visa requirements for Romanian and Bulgarian citizens on December 1st, 2017.

This decision demonstrates the importance that the Government of Canada places on its relationship with both countries and with the European Union.

Canada intends to implement partial lifts for eligible Romanian and Bulgarian citizens travelling to Canada for May 1, 2017.

After the visa lifts, Canada would reserve the right to re-impose the visa requirement on Romania or Bulgaria should irregular migration trends increase significantly from either country.

Canada is working closely with Romania and Bulgaria to put in place the conditions for a sustainable visa lift.

Over the next few months, Canadian officials will continue to work with the European Commission and with the Romanian and Bulgarian governments on migration-related issues to lay the groundwork for a successful transition to visa-free travel.

For more information, please click here.

(Sources)