European visa requirements for Canadian citizens are changing – it’s more important than ever to be sure your travel documents are in order. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will require Canadians to apply for pre-travel authorization before entering Schengen Area countries. While this process is expected to be straightforward for most travellers, Canadians with a criminal record may face additional challenges when applying.
At Pardons Canada, we specialize in helping Canadians clear their criminal records so they can travel without unnecessary restrictions. If you’re planning a trip to Europe, now is the time to start the pardon process to avoid potential disruptions.
Europe’s New Visa-Waiver Programs
For decades, Canadians have been able to travel to Europe without needing a visa. The introduction of Europe’s new visa-waiver program, The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), will change that. Starting in 2025, Canadians travelling to Europe will need a mandatory pre-travel authorization.
Unlike a traditional visa, ETIAS is a security measure aimed at strengthening border control across Schengen Area countries – an open-border area of Europe made up of 29 countries. Travellers will need to complete an online application before departure, providing personal details, travel history, and security-related information – including disclosure of any criminal record.
Key Facts About ETIAS for Canadian Citizens
- ETIAS applies to all non-European travellers visiting the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days).
- Online application has a processing fee and requires approval before departure.
- Valid for up to three years, allowing multiple entries within that period.
- Criminal record disclosure is required, which could impact the approval of ETIAS for Canadian Citizens.
For most travellers, ETIAS will be a routine step before visiting Europe. However, Canadians with a criminal record may face additional scrutiny or even denial. If you have past convictions, obtaining a record suspension, formerly known as a pardon, before applying for your visa can help prevent complications.
Pardons Canada helps Canadians clear their criminal records to make international travel more accessible. If you’re concerned about how ETIAS may affect your travel plans, contact us today for expert guidance.
Visa Requirements for Canadian Citizens Travelling to Europe
With ETIAS set to come into effect by the end of 2025, specific eligibility criteria must be met before being granted entry. Here is some detailed information about visa requirements for Canadian citizens travelling to Europe to help you plan an enjoyable and stress-free time overseas.
ETIAS Application Process for Canadians
The online ETIAS application process for Canadians is quick and straightforward. Most applicants will receive approval within minutes, but those flagged for further review – such as individuals with a criminal record – may experience delays or even denial.
Steps to Apply for ETIAS
To complete an ETIAS application, Canadian travellers must:
- Submit an online form with personal details, including passport information.
- Answer security and travel-related questions, including inquiries about past convictions.
- Pay a processing fee before submission.
- Wait for approval, which typically takes minutes but can extend to several days if additional screening is required.
What Happens if an ETIAS Application Is Denied?
If an ETIAS application is denied, travellers may receive an explanation for the refusal. In cases where the decision is based on a criminal record, the applicant may need to provide further documentation or appeal the decision.
How Pardons Canada Can Help You Travel to Europe
A pardon removes your criminal record from the CPIC database, meaning you won’t need to disclose past convictions when applying for ETIAS. This can reduce the risk of travel disruptions and make the application process smoother. At Pardons Canada, we specialize in helping Canadians clear their criminal records and regain their travel freedoms.
Our experienced team of professionals will handle the entire pardon application process, including:
- Eligibility Assessment – We review your criminal record, sentence completion, and waiting period requirements to confirm your eligibility for a record suspension.
- File Retrieval & Documentation – Our team obtains your RCMP criminal record, court documents, and local police records.
- Application Preparation – We complete all required paperwork, ensuring accuracy and compliance with Parole Board of Canada standards.
- Submission & Government Processing – We submit your pardon application, track its progress, and handle any follow-ups with government agencies.
- Record Clearance Confirmation – Once approved, your criminal record is removed from the CPIC database, ensuring a smoother ETIAS application.
Start Your Pardon Application for EU Travel Today
Don’t let a past conviction stand in the way of exciting opportunities. Start your pardon application for EU travel today to avoid delays. Contact Pardons Canada for expert guidance on obtaining a record suspension and ensuring a hassle-free experience when applying for ETIAS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Canadians need a visa for Europe?
Starting in 2025, all Canadian travellers must obtain ETIAS authorization before entering Europe. This is part of Europe’s new visa-waiver program, which requires pre-screening for travellers from visa-exempt countries like Canada.
What is ETIAS?
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a pre-travel screening system for non-European travellers visiting the Schengen Area. It is not a visa but a mandatory travel authorization designed to enhance border security. You must complete an online application, pay a processing fee, and receive approval before your departure.
Which countries require ETIAS?
ETIAS applies to all 29 Schengen Area countries, including:
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Spain
- Netherlands
- Greece
- Portugal
- Switzerland
- And more
If you plan to visit multiple Schengen Area countries, a single ETIAS authorization covers all of them.
Can you travel to Europe with a Canadian criminal record?
Yes, but a criminal record may affect your ETIAS approval. You must disclose past convictions during the ETIAS application process, and certain offences could result in denial. The best way to avoid this issue is to obtain a criminal record pardon before applying to remove your record from the CPIC database.
What countries recognize a Canadian pardon?
A record suspension (pardon) removes your criminal record from Canada’s CPIC database, but recognition outside of Canada varies. While the U.S. does not recognize Canadian pardons, many other countries – including those in the Schengen Area – rely on CPIC for background checks. Once a pardon is granted, your record no longer appears in CPIC, improving your chances of ETIAS approval.
When should I apply for a pardon if I plan to travel to Europe?
Since the record suspension process can take several months to over a year, it’s best to start as soon as possible – especially if you have upcoming travel plans. Pardons Canada can help streamline the process and ensure all paperwork is handled correctly. Contact us today to begin the process.
