Top 5 Ways to Enter Canada With a Green Card [2025-2026 Guide]

TL;DR: Green card holders can enter Canada visa-free for short visits but need proper documentation. For longer stays or work, you'll typically require a visa or permit. Always check IRCC's latest rules before traveling—our free Success Predictor Tool analyzes your specific case in minutes.

Can I visit Canada with just my US green card?

Yes, green card holders can enter Canada for tourism without a visa—but you must follow specific rules. According to IRCC's visitor visa exemptions page{:target="_blank"}, US permanent residents (green card holders) don't need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for stays up to 6 months. However, you must:

• Present a valid green card (not expired)
• Carry your passport from your country of citizenship
• Meet standard admissibility requirements (no criminal record, sufficient funds, etc.)
• Not work or study during your visit

Evola's AI border crossing assistant can generate your customized document checklist in 30 seconds.

Do I need an eTA to fly to Canada with a green card?

No—green card holders are exempt from Canada's Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) requirement. The official eTA eligibility tool{:target="_blank"} confirms this exemption applies even if you're from a visa-required country. Key points:

• Airlines will check your green card at boarding
• You may still be asked about your travel purpose at customs
• Land/sea entries have different rules (no eTA system)
• Always verify your specific case with our CLB Converter if you've had prior visa issues

How can green card holders work in Canada?

You'll need a work permit—your green card alone doesn't authorize employment in Canada. The IRCC work permit portal{:target="_blank"} outlines three main pathways:

1. LMIA-based work permits: Employer proves no Canadians could fill the role
2. LMIA-exempt categories: NAFTA professionals, intra-company transfers, etc.
3. Open work permits: For spouses of certain workers/students

Pro Tip: Use Evola's CRS Calculator to see if you qualify for Express Entry—many green card holders score higher than they expect when bilingualism and US experience are factored.

Can I immigrate permanently from a green card to Canadian PR?

Yes, but you must qualify through standard immigration programs. Your green card status may help by:

• Boosting your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for Express Entry
• Providing North American work experience points
• Simplifying background checks

Critical considerations:

• You'll lose US permanent residency if absent too long during Canadian PR processing
• Medical inadmissibility rules differ between the countries
• Tax implications require professional advice

Our Immigration Success Predictor compares your profile against 2025's expected cutoffs.

What documents do I need at the border?

Customs officers may request:

• Valid green card (not expired)
• Passport from your home country
• Return ticket or proof of onward travel
• Proof of sufficient funds (recent bank statements)
• Letter of invitation if staying with someone
• COVID-19 vaccination records (check current rules)

Red Flag: Never misrepresent your plans—lying to border officers is a crime in Canada with severe consequences.

Conclusion: Smart Cross-Border Planning Wins

Whether visiting Niagara Falls or relocating to Toronto, green card holders enjoy privileged access to Canada—but the rules have nuances. Bookmark IRCC's website for updates, and let Evola's 24/7 AI immigration mentor help you navigate the latest requirements. Ready to explore your options? Start your free assessment now.

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Meta Description: Green card holders can visit Canada visa-free but need proper documents. Learn work/immigration options, required paperwork, and how to avoid border issues in our 2025 guide.

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