
If you're planning to travel to Canada, you'll need to carry proper identification and ensure you have the necessary travel documents. All visitors must carry acceptable identification, such as a passport, and a valid visa, if required. Canadian citizens returning home should carry a valid Canadian passport, as it is the only universally accepted identification document. International visitors from select countries may need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada. It is recommended to apply for an eTA before booking your flight, as processing times can vary.
When entering Canada, you may be asked to present your passport and visa (if applicable) to a border services officer, who will verify your documentation and eligibility for entry. It is important to comply with all requirements and have the necessary documentation readily available to ensure a smooth border crossing.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Identification | All travellers must carry acceptable identification and a valid visa (if necessary) when entering Canada. A passport is recommended as it is the only reliable and universally-accepted travel and identification document for the purpose of international travel. |
Electronic Travel Authorization | Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada. Exceptions include U.S. citizens, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (USLPR) and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. |
Travel with minors | If you plan to travel to Canada with a minor for whom you do not have full legal custody, CBSA may require a letter of authorization from the minor’s parents or legal guardian(s). |
Bringing goods | Visitors can bring certain goods into Canada for their own use as personal baggage. This includes clothing, camping and sports equipment, cameras and personal computers. Visitors must declare all goods when they arrive at the first CBSA port of entry. |
Restricted/prohibited goods | Firearms and weapons, food, plants, animals and related products, explosives, fireworks and ammunition, vehicles, and consumer products. |
Travelling with large amounts of money | If you have currency or monetary instruments equal to or greater than CAN$10,000 when arriving in or departing from Canada, you must report to the CBSA. |
Travelling with gifts | Gifts should not be wrapped before crossing the border as they may need to be inspected by a BSO. |
COVID-19 requirements | Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not required. Pre-board testing is not required. COVID-19 pre-entry and arrival tests are not required. Quarantine after you enter Canada is not required. |
What You'll Learn
Identification and travel documents
When travelling to Canada, you must carry proper identification for yourself and any children or minors travelling with you. This is to confirm your legal right or authorisation to enter Canada when you arrive.
Canadian citizens
Canadian citizens must carry a valid Canadian passport for all visits abroad, including visits to the United States. This is the only universally accepted identification document and proves your right to return to Canada.
Other acceptable documents for Canadian citizens to denote identity and citizenship include:
- Canadian birth certificate
- Permanent residence card
- Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) card or valid Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) card
- NEXUS card, when entering Canada by air, land or marine modes from the U.S.
- FAST card (Free and Secure Trade), when arriving by land or marine modes only
- Canadian emergency travel document
- Canadian temporary passport
- Certificate of Canadian citizenship (issued from 1954 to present)
- Enhanced driver's license issued by a Canadian province or territory
- Enhanced identification/photo card issued by a Canadian province or territory
U.S. citizens
U.S. citizens must carry proof of citizenship and identity. Acceptable documents include:
- Valid U.S. passport
- Passport card
- NEXUS card
Children under 16 only need proof of U.S. citizenship.
U.S. citizens who are members of the NEXUS program can use their membership card as proof of identification and citizenship when entering Canada by land, air or water. U.S. citizens who are members of FAST may use their membership card when entering Canada by land or water only. When travelling by air, FAST cards will only be accepted as proof of identification when travelling to Canada from the U.S.
International visitors
All international travellers must carry acceptable identification and a valid visa (if necessary) when entering Canada. A passport is recommended as it is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document for international travel.
Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada. Exceptions include U.S. citizens, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (USLPR) and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.
Boarding Gate Requirements
At the boarding gate, each passenger must present one of the following:
- One piece of valid, not expired, identification with a photo issued by a government authority within Canada, showing the name and date of birth
- Two pieces of valid, not expired, non-photo identification issued by a government authority within Canada. The names on the two pieces of ID must match, and one must also include the date of birth
- A valid Permanent Resident Card issued by the United States
- A valid enhanced driver's license issued by the United States
The name on the ID must match the name used on the reservation or ticket, and the passenger must resemble the photo on their ID.
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Entry requirements
To enter Canada, you must carry proper identification and meet the requirements for entry into Canada. This includes having the correct documentation to confirm your legal right or authorization to enter Canada at the border.
Canadian Citizens
Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, need a valid Canadian passport for all visits abroad, including visits to the United States.
Other acceptable documents for establishing Canadian citizenship include:
- Canadian birth certificate
- Permanent residence card
- Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) card or valid Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) card
If you do not have a passport and are returning to Canada, the following documents can denote identity and citizenship:
- NEXUS card, held by a Canadian citizen, when entering Canada by air (when coming from the U.S.), land, or marine modes
- FAST card (Free and Secure Trade), issued to a Canadian citizen (when arriving by land or marine modes only)
- Canadian emergency travel document
- Canadian temporary passport
- Certificate of Canadian citizenship (issued from 1954 to present)
- Enhanced driver's license issued by a Canadian province or territory
- Enhanced identification/photo card issued by a Canadian province or territory
Permanent Residents of Canada
Permanent residents of Canada need a valid permanent resident card or permanent resident travel document. Permanent residents who are members of the NEXUS or FAST programs must travel with a passport and proof of permanent residence.
U.S. Citizens
U.S. citizens must carry proper identification, such as a valid U.S. passport. U.S. citizens who are members of the NEXUS program can use their membership card as proof of identification and citizenship when entering Canada by land, air or water.
Lawful Permanent Residents of the U.S.
Lawful permanent residents of the United States must show the following documents for all methods of travel to Canada:
- A valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document)
- A valid green card (or equivalent valid proof of status in the United States)
Visa-exempt (eTA eligible) travellers
The following travellers need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to board their flight to Canada:
- British National (Overseas)
- British overseas citizen (re-admissible to the United Kingdom)
- British overseas territory citizen with citizenship through birth, descent, naturalization or registration in one of the British overseas territories of: British Virgin Islands, Falkland Islands (Malvinas), Turks and Caicos Islands
- British Subject with a right of abode in the United Kingdom
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China, must have a passport issued by Hong Kong SAR
- Israel, must have a national Israeli passport
- Romania (electronic passport holders only)
- Taiwan, must have an ordinary passport issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taiwan that includes the personal identification number
- United Arab Emirates
- Vatican City State, must have a passport or travel document issued by the Vatican
Visa-required travellers
The following travellers need a visa to come to Canada by any method of travel:
- Holders of a foreign national passport and stateless individuals
- Citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Brazil, Cameroon, Central African Republic, China, Congo, Costa Rica, Israel, Macao Special Administrative Region, Mexico, Micronesia, Morocco, Palestinian Authority, Panama, Philippines, Romania, Sao Tomé e Principe, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Taiwan, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay
Workers and Students
If you are a worker or student, you must meet Canada's entry requirements. A work permit or study permit is not a visa. In most cases, you will also need a valid visitor visa or eTA to enter Canada.
Visiting your child or grandchild in Canada
If you are the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible for a super visa. A super visa lets you visit your child or grandchild in Canada for 5 years at a time, with multiple entries to Canada and is valid for up to 10 years.
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Restricted/prohibited goods
When travelling to Canada, it is important to be aware of restricted and prohibited goods to avoid penalties such as fines, seizure, or prosecution. Here is a list of restricted and prohibited goods that you should be cautious about when entering Canada:
Firearms and Weapons
All firearms and weapons must be declared at the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) port of entry when entering Canada. You must be at least 18 years old to import firearms, and only non-restricted and restricted firearms are allowed with proper documentation and requirements met. Prohibited firearms, weapons, or devices such as silencers, replica firearms, switchblades, pepper spray, and others are generally not permitted.
Food, Plants, and Animals
All food, plants, animals, and related products must be declared at the border. These items can carry diseases, such as E. coli, or invasive species, like the Asian Long-Horned Beetle, which pose a risk to Canada's ecosystem.
Explosives, Fireworks, and Ammunition
Written authorization and permits are required to bring explosives, fireworks, and certain types of ammunition into Canada. You can apply for the necessary permits online through Natural Resources Canada.
Vehicles
Importing vehicles, including passenger cars, pickup trucks, snowmobiles, and motor homes for non-commercial use, is subject to numerous requirements.
Consumer Products
Certain consumer goods that could endanger the public, such as baby walkers and jequirity beans found in art or beadwork, are prohibited from being brought into Canada. Canadian residents should be mindful of stricter safety requirements for certain consumer products.
Currency and Monetary Instruments
If you are carrying currency or monetary instruments (e.g., stocks, bonds, cheques) valued at CAN$10,000 or more, you must report this to the CBSA when entering or exiting Canada. This rule applies regardless of whether the funds are in your possession, baggage, or vehicle.
Health Products and Prescription Drugs
Health products and prescription medications may require a permit or written authorization to bring into Canada. Always check with Health Canada to ensure your medication is legal in the country.
Antiques and Cultural Objects
Antiques or cultural artefacts with historical significance to their country of origin may need a permit or written authorization for importation.
Used or Second-Hand Mattresses
Importing used mattresses into Canada is prohibited unless you possess a certificate verifying that they have been cleaned and fumigated in the country of export. A signed letter or document from a qualified person attesting to this requirement is also acceptable.
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Currency restrictions
Canada has no restrictions on the movement of funds into or out of the country, and there are no limits to how much cash you can bring into Canada. However, travellers who are bringing the equivalent of C$10,000 or more in cash, cheques, stocks, bonds, bank drafts, or other monetary instruments into the country are required to declare it at the border. This can be done by filling out a Cross-Border Currency or Monetary Instruments Report – Individual form. Failure to declare large amounts of cash can result in the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) seizing your cash, and you will have to pay a fine to get it back.
When leaving Canada, there are also no restrictions on how much cash you can take out of the country. However, you will still need to make a customs declaration if you are carrying more than C$10,000 (or the equivalent in foreign currency).
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Health and safety
Vaccinations and Illnesses
Before travelling to Canada, it is important to ensure that you and your family are up to date with the recommended measles vaccinations. Measles cases are increasing worldwide, and it is advised not to travel if you have measles symptoms or have been in contact with someone who does. Similarly, if you develop measles symptoms after returning from Canada, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
Travel Health Notices
The Public Health Agency of Canada provides Travel Health Notices, which outline potential health risks for travellers and recommend ways to mitigate these risks. These notices remain in effect until removed, so it is important to check them regularly.
Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Mosquitoes in tropical climates can spread diseases, so it is important to take precautions to protect yourself from mosquito bites when travelling.
Food, Plants, and Animals
When entering Canada, you must declare all food, plants, animals, and related products at the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) port of entry. This is because these items can carry diseases or invasive species that pose a risk to Canada's ecosystem and agriculture.
Restricted and Prohibited Goods
Certain goods are restricted or prohibited from entering Canada. For example, firearms and weapons must be declared at the CBSA port of entry. Other examples include explosives, fireworks, certain types of ammunition, and consumer products that could be dangerous, such as baby walkers.
Currency and Monetary Instruments
If you are travelling with currency or monetary instruments (such as stocks, bonds, or cheques) totalling CAN$10,000 or more, you must report this to the CBSA when entering or leaving Canada. This applies to items on your person, in your baggage, or in your vehicle.
Travel Advice and Advisories
The Government of Canada provides official travel advice and advisories to help travellers make informed decisions and stay safe while outside Canada. It is important to check these advisories regularly, as safety and security conditions can change.
Crime and Safety
Canada generally has a lower crime rate than the United States, but violent crimes do occur, especially in urban areas. Opportunistic smash-and-grab thefts from parked cars are common in large cities and popular tourist destinations. It is advised not to leave any possessions unattended in vehicles, even in the trunk. Some jurisdictions, such as Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver, may fine you for leaving your car doors unlocked or for leaving valuables visible. Pickpocketing can also occur, especially in popular tourist areas, so it is important to be vigilant and safeguard your belongings.
Demonstrations and protests occur frequently in Canada and can be unpredictable. It is recommended to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and to monitor local media for updates and traffic advisories.
Driving and Transportation
Driving in Canada is similar to driving in many parts of the United States, with distances and speeds posted in kilometres per hour. However, some signs, particularly in Quebec, may only be in French. U.S. driver's licenses are valid for visitors in Canada, and U.S. auto insurance is accepted for tourists. Some provinces have specific requirements, such as mandatory snow tires, headlights during the day, or bans on driving while using a handheld cell phone.
Medical Insurance
It is recommended to ensure that your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas, as most care providers in Canada only accept cash payments. Supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in case of unforeseen medical complications is also strongly recommended.
LGBTQI+ Travellers
There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organisation of LGBTQI+ events in Canada.
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Frequently asked questions
All travellers must carry acceptable identification and a valid visa (if necessary) when entering Canada. A passport is recommended as it is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document for international travel.
It depends on where you are from and how long you are staying. For example, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits to Canada of less than 180 days.
The eTA is an online registration system for visa-exempt foreign nationals to travel to or through Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (USLPR), and travellers with a valid Canadian visa.
When you arrive in Canada, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and a valid visa, if you are arriving from a country that requires one. You must also declare all goods when you arrive at the first Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) port of entry.
As of July 2024, proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not required to enter Canada, and pre-entry and arrival tests are not needed. However, it is strongly recommended that you wear a well-constructed and well-fitted mask or respirator while travelling.