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I am an American citizen. What do I need to enter Canada?

American citizens, including American-Canadian citizens, must carry proper identification and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada . You do not need a Canadian passport, a Canadian visa or an eTA to enter Canada if you are travelling with a valid U.S. passport.

New entry requirement now in effect

Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens , and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.

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• Do I need to apply for both a visitor visa and an eTA?

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Glossary term

• Admissibility

Do you need a passport to go to Canada?

T raveling to Canada from the United States is relatively straightforward, but the documentation required can vary depending on your mode of transportation and citizenship status. While a passport is the most widely accepted form of identification for international travel, alternative options are available for U.S. citizens entering Canada by land or sea.

What you need to know about traveling to Canada

So, what exactly do you need to cross into Canada? It really depends on how you’re getting there.

What documents do I need to cross the Canadian border by car?

If you’re a U.S. citizen traveling to Canada by land or sea, you have a few options for acceptable documentation:

• Passport: A valid U.S. passport is the most widely recognized and accepted form of identification for international travel, including entry into Canada. It’s also the only document accepted for air travel to Canada.
• Passport card: This wallet-sized card can be used to re-enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports of entry. It cannot be used for air travel.
• Enhanced driver’s license (EDL): Several U.S. states, including Michigan, New York, Vermont, and Washington, issue enhanced driver’s licenses that are designed to meet the document requirements for land and sea travel into Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. EDLs are not valid for air travel.
• Trusted traveler program card: U.S. citizens enrolled in trusted traveler programs like NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST can use their program card to expedite entry into Canada at designated land border crossings.

What do you need to enter Canada from the U.S.?

To enter Canada from the United States, you need to present one of the following acceptable documents:

• Valid U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card (land and sea travel only)
• Enhanced driver’s license issued by an approved state (land and sea travel only)
• Trusted traveler program card (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST) (land travel only)

Can I travel to Canada with my U.S. birth certificate?

No, a U.S. birth certificate alone is not sufficient for entry into Canada. Although it serves as proof of citizenship, it does not include the necessary identification information required for international travel. A birth certificate must be accompanied by additional approved documentation, such as a government-issued photo ID.

Can you get into Canada with an enhanced license?

Yes, an enhanced driver’s license (EDL) issued by an approved U.S. state is a valid document for entry into Canada by land or sea. However, an EDL cannot be used for air travel to Canada or any other international destination. For air travel, a valid passport is required.

EDLs are currently issued by the states of Michigan, New York, Vermont, and Washington, specifically to facilitate land and sea travel between the United States and Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean destinations. These licenses incorporate additional security features and are approved by the Department of Homeland Security and the Canadian government for border-crossing purposes.

Before traveling, it’s always a good idea to check the latest entry requirements and regulations with the Canadian government, as these can change over time. 

Bottom line

While a passport is the most widely accepted and recommended form of identification for travel to Canada, U.S. citizens have several alternatives for land and sea travel, including passport cards, enhanced driver’s licenses, and trusted traveler program cards. Regardless of the documentation used, all travelers need to meet Canada’s admissibility requirements and should familiarize themselves with the latest entry regulations before going on their trip.

The post Do you need a passport to go to Canada? appeared first on The Manual .

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Travellers Visitors to Canada

October 1, 2022 : covid-19 emergency border measures ended.

Refer to COVID-19: Travel, testing and borders for details.

Have proper identification

You must carry proper identification for yourself and any children travelling with you to help confirm your legal right or authorization to enter Canada when you arrive.

All visitors arriving from or transiting through the United States should visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for information concerning the requirements to enter, transit through, or return to the United States.

Identification requirements for U.S. citizens and permanent residents

If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you must carry proof of citizenship such as a passport, birth certificate, a certificate of citizenship or naturalization, a U.S. Permanent Resident Card, or a Certificate of Indian Status along with photo identification. If you are a U.S. permanent resident, ensure you carry proof of your status such as a U.S. Permanent Resident Card.

For members of a Trusted Traveller program

U.s. citizens.

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. This applies when you are using either conventional or NEXUS-only lanes. 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 you are travelling to Canada from the U.S.

U.S. permanent residents

NEXUS and FAST members who are permanent residents of the U.S. must still travel with a passport and proof of permanent residence. You may be asked to present these documents to the Border Services Officer ( BSO ) when you arrive at the border.

No matter your mode of travel, we recommend you carry a valid passport for all travel abroad, including visits to Canada from the United States. A passport may be required by your airline or other transportation authority, since it is the only universally-accepted, identification document.

Identification requirements for international visitors

All international travellers must carry acceptable identification and a valid visa (if necessary) when entering Canada. A passport is recommended because 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. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens , and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.

Certain low-risk foreign nationals from select visa-required countries may also travel to or through Canada by air using an eTA through the eTA expansion program .

Foreign nationals from select visa-required countries may also travel to or through Canada by air using an eTA, if eligible .

Be prepared: Apply for an eTA before you book your flight to Canada. Most applicants get approved within minutes. However, some applications can take several days to process so don’t wait until the last minute. Get help if you have questions before, during or after you apply.

Fake websites

Travellers who apply for an eTA are advised to be cautious in all dealings with companies that claim to offer help in getting an eTA. These companies are not operating on behalf of the Government of Canada. Many have established websites that charge a fee to provide information and submit eTA applications.

This Government of Canada website is the official place to apply for an eTA .

Travelling with minors

BSOs watch for missing persons , and may ask detailed questions about any minors travelling with you.

Visit the Children and travel page for more information about travelling abroad with minors.

What you can bring with you

As a visitor, you can bring certain goods into Canada for your own use as personal baggage. Personal baggage includes clothing, camping and sports equipment, cameras and personal computers. This also includes your mode of transportation, including vehicles, private boats and aircraft.

You must declare all goods when you arrive at the first CBSA port of entry. Our BSO s check goods you are bringing in or taking out of Canada to verify what you have declared. If you declare goods when you arrive and take them back with you when you leave, you will not have to pay any duty or taxes. These goods cannot be:

• used by a resident of Canada;
• used on behalf of a business based in Canada;
• given as a gift to a Canadian resident; or
• disposed of or left behind in Canada.

The BSO may ask you to leave a security deposit for your goods. Your deposit will be refunded when you leave Canada with the goods. If this happens, you will be issued a Temporary Admission Permit. We will keep a copy and give you one for your records. When you leave Canada, bring your goods and your copy of the Temporary Admission Permit, to the BSO . You will get a receipt and your security deposit will be refunded by mail.

Making your declaration

Every traveller entering Canada must report to a border services officer and answer all their questions truthfully. Travellers must also report goods they are bringing with them, including food, plant and animal products.

To ensure a smooth border crossing, have all required identification and travel documents in hand. Be ready to make a full and accurate declaration, including the amount of goods in Canadian dollars you are bringing with you.

If you arrive by land, follow the signs to the first checkpoint. A border services officer will check your identification and other travel documents and you will answer their questions.

If you arrive by private boat, go directly to a designated marine telephone reporting site and call the Telephone Reporting Centre ( TRC ) at 1-888-226-7277 to get clearance. For more information, visit the Private boaters page.

If you arrive at one of Canada's main airports , you can complete your customs and immigration declaration your before arrival with Advance Declaration.

At the airport kiosk or eGate, you will scan your travel document and verify your identity. The device will print your declaration and you will bring it to a border services officer.

If you arrive at a smaller Canadian airport, without a kiosk or eGate, you must fill out a paper E-311 CBSA Declaration Card prior to arrival and present it to a border services officer.

Use Advance Declaration and save time!

Submit your customs and immigration information with Advance Declaration up to 72 hours before you arrive in Canada using your smart phone or your computer. When you use Advance Declaration, you can access express lanes in the arrivals hall. Data shows that it’s up to 50% faster at the airport kiosk or eGate.

Instructions on how to complete the card are attached to the form. You can list up to four people living at the same residence on one card. If there are more than four people living at your address use one additional card for each additional group of four or fewer people. Once the cards are complete you can detach and discard the instructions. Do not fold the card.

Be sure to keep the card handy along with your identification and other travel documents. You will be asked to show this card to our BSOs several times.

If you have any questions about the card or Canadian regulations, ask the BSO when you arrive.

Referrals for secondary services and inspections

At any point during your interactions with our BSOs at a port of entry, you may be referred to our secondary services and inspections area.

We understand that travellers may feel anxious when crossing the border. Referrals to secondary inspection are a normal part of the cross-border travel process that any visitor to Canada may experience.

Why you may be referred to secondary inspection

You may be referred to secondary inspection for a variety of reasons, for example:

• carrying out a random inspection;
• verifying your declaration or documentation;
• asking you more in-depth questions about yourself or inspecting your goods;
• determining your admissibility to Canada or the admissibility of the goods in your possession;
• having you pay duty and taxes;
• completing or processing paperwork to support your entry or the entry of your goods to Canada.

All travellers are protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms . Referrals are not made on any discriminatory basis, such as race, nationality, religion, age or gender.

What to expect from secondary inspections

If you are referred for Secondary Services or Inspection, an officer may:

• ask you to provide detailed information about your plans while visiting Canada, or the time you spent abroad;
• make further enquiries, check records, or conduct research to verify your declaration;
• confirm the guardianship of children travelling with you;
• process the payment of duty and taxes;
• inspect your luggage, purse or wallet, electronics (including laptops and cell phones), your vehicle and any additional goods you are transporting;
• examine visually your pet or any animals travelling with you;
• ask you to produce evidence of the money you have available to fund your visit to Canada;
• request that you produce receipts to account for expenses you incurred or purchases made abroad; or
• count your cash or travellers cheques, in your presence.

While most travellers we inspect comply with Canadian laws and regulations, we do encounter individuals who are intent on breaking the law and who attempt to avoid detection. That is why the officer may not always answer specific questions about a Secondary Inspection.

Travelling with alcohol and tobacco

Alcoholic beverages.

You are allowed to bring into Canada only one of the following amounts of alcohol and alcoholic beverages free of duty and taxes:

Alcoholic beverages are products that exceed 0.5% alcohol by volume. Certain alcoholic and wine products that do not exceed 0.5% by volume are not considered alcoholic beverages.

You must meet the minimum age of the province or territory where you enter Canada. Minimum ages are established by provincial or territorial authorities: 18 years for Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec and 19 years for the remaining provinces and territories.

The CBSA classifies "cooler" products according to the alcoholic beverage they contain. For example, beer coolers are considered to be beer and wine coolers are considered to be wine.

The quantities of alcoholic beverages you can import must be within the limit set by provincial and territorial liquor control authorities that apply where you will enter Canada. If the amount of alcohol you want to import exceeds your personal exemption, you will be required to pay the duty and taxes as well as any provincial or territorial levies that apply. Contact the appropriate provincial or territorial liquor control authority for more information before you return to Canada.

You must be of legal age in the province of importation. While you are allowed to import more alcoholic beverages than the amounts listed above, you will be responsible for paying duty and taxes on the additional alcoholic beverages you are bringing into Canada.

For more information on bringing alcoholic beverages to Canada, consult the Alcohol and tobacco limits page.

Tobacco products

As a visitor or a temporary resident, you may bring into Canada, free of duty and taxes, all of the following amounts of tobacco products, as long as these items are in your possession when you arrive in Canada:

You can speed up your clearance by having your tobacco products available for inspection when you arrive.

Whether they are stamped or unstamped, if you bring in tobacco products that exceed your personal exemption, you will be required to pay the regular duty and taxes as well as any provincial or territorial levies that apply on the excess amount.

Note: You must be 18 years of age to bring tobacco products into Canada under your personal exemption.

Stamped Tobacco Products – Personal exemption amounts

If you wish to import cigarettes, manufactured tobacco and tobacco sticks duty free as part of your personal exemption, the packages must be stamped " duty paid Canada droit acquitté ". You will find tobacco products sold at duty-free stores marked this way.

Unstamped Tobacco Products – Special duties rate

A special duty rate applies to cigarettes, manufactured tobacco and tobacco sticks that are not stamped " duty paid Canada droit acquitté".

For example, if you claim a carton of 200 cigarettes as part of your personal exemption and it is not stamped " duty paid Canada droit acquitté", you will be assessed at a special duty rate.

Unstamped Tobacco Products – Import limits

In addition to your personal exemption amounts, there are limits on the quantity of tobacco products that may be imported if it is not packaged and not stamped " duty paid Canada droit acquitté ". The limit is currently five units of tobacco products. One  unit of tobacco products consists of one of the following:

For short visits, these quantities may be limited to amounts that are appropriate in respect of the nature, purpose, and duration of the visit.

Restricted/prohibited goods

Certain goods are restricted or prohibited in Canada. To avoid the possibility of penalties, including seizure or prosecution, make sure you have the information you need before attempting to bring items into Canada.

The following are some examples of restricted or prohibited goods:

• Firearms and weapons : You must declare all weapons and firearms at the CBSA port of entry when you enter Canada.
• Food, plants, animals and related products : All food, plants, animals, and related products must be declared. Food can carry disease, such as E. coli. Plants and plant products can carry invasive alien species, such as the Asian Long-Horned Beetle. Animals and animal products can carry diseases, such as avian influenza and foot-and-mouth disease.
• Explosives, fireworks and ammunition : You must have written authorization and permits to bring explosives, fireworks and certain types of ammunition into Canada.
• Vehicles : Vehicles include any kind of pleasure vehicles such as passenger cars, pickup trucks, snowmobiles and motor homes, as long as you use them for non-commercial purposes. There are many requirements that apply to importing a vehicle .
• Consumer products : Certain consumer products that could pose a danger to the public (e.g., baby walkers, jequirity beans that are often found in art or bead work) are not allowed to be brought into Canada. Canadian residents should be aware of consumer products that have safety requirements in Canada . Many of these safety requirements are stricter than requirements of other countries.

For more information consult the Restricted and Prohibited Goods page.

Travelling with CAN$10,000 or more

If you have currency or monetary instruments equal to or greater than CAN$10,000 (or the equivalent in a foreign currency) in your possession when arriving in or departing from Canada, you must report to the CBSA. Monetary instruments include items such as stocks, bonds, bank drafts, cheques, and travellers' cheques.

This regulation applies to currency and monetary instruments you have on your person, in your baggage and/or in your vehicle.

When you arrive in Canada with CAN$10,000 or more in your possession, you must report it on the CBSA Declaration Card (if one was provided to you), or in the verbal declaration made to a BSO.

When you leave Canada by air with CAN$10,000 or more in your possession, you must report to the CBSA office within the airport, before clearing security or, if leaving by land or boat, report your intent to export to the CBSA at one of our offices.

For more information, including instructions on how to report your intent to import or export currency in person, by mail, or by courier, you can consult Travelling with CAN$10,000 or more .

Travelling with gifts

If you are travelling with gifts, do not wrap them before crossing the border. If a gift is wrapped, a BSO may need to un-wrap the gift to examine the goods you are bringing into Canada.

Can I enter Canada?

Why some people cannot enter or remain in canada.

There are a number of reasons you can be found inadmissible, denied a visa or refused entry to Canada such as:

• Human or international rights violations
• Criminality
• Organized criminality
• Health grounds
• Financial reasons
• Misrepresentation
• Non-compliance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA).
• Having an inadmissible family member

Visit the Determine your eligibility page for more information.

Ministerial relief

If you have been found inadmissible to Canada on grounds of security, certain provisions relating to human or international rights violations, or organized criminality, you may request that the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness (the Minister) make a declaration of relief under subsection 42.1(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) if the Minister is satisfied that doing so is not contrary to the national interest. This process is commonly referred to as Ministerial relief.

You may apply for Ministerial relief using BSF766. Refer to the Guide to Applying for a Declaration of Relief Under Subsection 42.1(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act .

Overcome criminal convictions

Depending on the crime, how long ago it was committed, and how you have behaved since the conviction, you may still be allowed to come to Canada, if you:

• convince an immigration officer that you meet the legal terms to be deemed rehabilitated, or
• applied for rehabilitation and were approved, or
• were granted a record suspension, or
• have a temporary resident permit.

Visit the Overcome criminal convictions page for more information.

Resources for visitors

• Come to Canada to settle, study or work
• Refugees (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website)

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Pre-boarding identification requirements

On this page, domestic air travel, international air travel, canadian travel number.

Bring the right identification to the airport to help with a quick identity verification and check-in process.

Remember that the name on your identification must match the name on your airline ticket and boarding pass.

If you have Canadian identification

Bring one identification document issued by a Canadian federal, provincial or territorial government that includes your:

• date of birth

If you don’t have an identification document that includes your photo, full name and date of birth:

• Show two pieces of identification issued by a Canadian federal, provincial or territorial government that show your name.
• One of these documents must show your full name and date of birth.

Valid identification documents issued by a Canadian government include:

• citizenship card
• permanent resident card
• record of landing form/confirmation of permanent residence (IMM 5292 and IMM 5688)
• immigration documents issued to foreign nationals (e.g., work permit, study permit, visitor record, temporary resident permit, refugee approved status)
• birth certificate
• driver's licence
• health card
• identification card
• Canadian military identification
• Certificate of Indian Status (status card)
• Federal police identification
• Firearms licence
• Government employee identification cards (federal or provincial)
• Old Age Security (OAS) identification card

You can't use hunting, boating and fishing licences as identification for domestic flights.

If you don’t have Canadian identification

You can use a travel document you used to enter Canada:

• United States Permanent Resident card
• Enhanced Driver’s License
• any document referred to in subsection 50(1) or 52(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations

Air Canada has introduced digital identification technology through the Air Canada mobile app. Select travellers from Vancouver International Airport and Toronto Pearson International Airport are eligible.

Learn more about the digital identification system. (AirCanada.com)

Bring one valid identification document issued by a government authority with your:

Valid identification documents include:

• Canadian passport
• Passport issued by a country where you are a citizen

Canadian citizens should always carry a valid Canadian passport when travelling outside Canada.

More information about travel documents

If your name is the same, or similar, to that of someone on the Secure Air Travel Act list (sometimes called Canada’s “No Fly List”), you could save time by applying for a Canadian Travel Number (CTN).

More information about the CTN

• Canadian passports
• Travelling with a permanent resident card
• Travelling as a dual citizen
• Secure Air Travel Regulations , Department of Justice Canada
• Passenger protect program , Public Safety Canada

Update April 12, 2024

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U.S. Visa: Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country

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Reciprocity Schedule

Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.

Explanation of Terms

Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.

Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).

Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.

Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.

Visa Classifications

Country specific footnotes.

Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.

Visa Category Footnotes

The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:

• G-1 through G-4
• NATO 1 through NATO 6

An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident or national of a country without a treaty.  *When the spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status and are themselves a national of a country that does not have a treaty with the United States – the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principal alien’s country of nationality should be used.  **Spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 visa principal applicant, where the spouse and children are also nationals of a country that has a treaty with the United States – the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the spouse and children’s country of nationality should be used.  

*Example 1: John Doe is a national of Country A that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. however his wife and child are nationals of Country B which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as John Doe, the principal visa holder. **Example 2:  Mike Doe is a national of Country Y that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. however his wife and child are nationals of Country Z that also has a treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the reciprocity issued to nationals of Country Z.

The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.

Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.  

Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.

There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.

Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.

In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).

However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.

Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.

Canadian Nationals

Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.

Mexican Nationals

Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.

Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi, Libyan, Somalian, Sudanese, Syrian or Yemeni nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.

Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.

No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.

V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.

Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:

• T-2 (spouse)
• T-3 (child)
• T-4 (parent)

The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.

The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.

The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.

General Documents

Note:  Visa applicants who have Canadian Permanent Residency or refugee status in Canada may be accorded Canadian reciprocity. Applicants who have permanent residence or refugee status in Canada, but apply outside of Canada, will receive visa validity according to their nationality rather than Canadian reciprocity. If applicants with Canadian Permanent Residency or Refugee status apply within Canada, a consular officer will determine whether the applicant meets the requirements to be accorded Canadian reciprocity.   

Birth, Death, Burial Certificates

Births are registered in the Canadian provinces or territory in which they took place. Though each province or territory issues its own certificates for these events, there are a few basic formats for them across Canada:

• The "small" or "short form" certificate  is a computer-printed, limited extract of information from provincial records. It is a wallet-sized card, 9.5 x 6.4 cm or 2.5 x 3.75in. Short-form or small certificates are not acceptable for visa purposes because they do not contain enough identification information, such as parents' names.
• The "large" or "full-size" certificate  is a computer-printed extract of information from provincial records. It is printed on currency-style paper stock, 21.6 x 17.8 cm or 7 x 8.25 in., with an intaglio border.
• A "certified copy of a record"  is an exact or near-exact copy of the actual paper record in the provincial archives. It is printed on safety paper, usually 21.5 x 28 cm or 8.5 x 14in., and bears the province or territory's raised seal. This type of certificate, being a complete record rather than an extract, contains the most information about the event.
• A "commemorative" certificate is a decorative document intended for display ( Specimen from Manitoba ). Commemorative certificates are not considered legal documents in Canada and are not acceptable for visa purposes.

Note:  For cases in which the subject of a birth record was adopted, see "Adoption Records" below.

Not all provinces and territories issue all of the formats noted above. Province-and-territory specific information on obtaining acceptable birth, marriage, death, and name change certificates is as follows:

• Alberta:  Applicants should obtain "large sized" certificates or certified photocopies of a registration from Alberta Vital Statistics through a private Alberta Registry Agent. Further information, including names and locations of Registry Agents, is  available online . Note:  For marriages in Alberta, the certificate torn off the marriage license and given to the couple at the conclusion of the ceremony confirms that the marriage took place, but is not a legal documents. Applicants must obtain a marriage certificate or certified copy of marriage record from Alberta Vital Statistics.
• British Columbia:  Applicants should obtain "large" certificates or certified copes of a registration from the Vital Statistics Agency, which has offices in Vancouver (605 Robson Street, Room 250, tel: 604-660-2937) and Victoria (818 Fort Street, tel: 250-952-2681). Large certificates are also available through Government Agents located across the province. Further information, including locations of other Vital Statistics offices, names and located of Government Agents, and mail-order instructions, is  available online.
• Manitoba:  Applicants should obtain "large" certificates or certified copies from the Vital Statistics Agency in Winnipeg (254 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, 204-945-3701). Further information, including mail-order instructions, is  available online .
• New Brunswick:  Applicants should obtain "long-form certified copies" of records from the Vital Statistics Office in Fredericton (435 King Street, Suite 203, tel: 506-453-2385). Further information, including mail-order instructions, is  available online.
• Newfoundland and Labrador:  Applicants should obtain "long-form certificates" from the Vital Statistics Division in St. John's (5 Mews Place, tel: 709-729-3308) or at Government Service Centers located throughout the province. Further information, including locations and mail-order instructions, is  available online .
• Northwest Territories:  Applicants should obtain "framing" or "restricted photocopy" certificates from the Registrar General of Vital Statistics in Inuvik Office of the Department of Health and Social Services (tel: 867-777-7420). Applicants may also write to: Registrar General of Vital Statistics, Government of the NWT, Bag 9 (107 MacKenzie Road/IDC Building, second floor), Inuvik, NT, X0A 0T0 (fax: 867-777-3197).
• Nova Scotia:  Applicants should obtain "large" certificates or certified copies of a registration from Vital Statistics Office in Halifax (Joseph Howe Building, 1690 Hollis Street., ground floor, tel:902-424-4381). Further information, including instructions for ordering online or by mail, is  available online.
• Nunavut:  Applicants should obtain "large" certificates or certified copies of a registration from the Vital Statistics Division, which is based out of the Kivalliq Regional Office of the Department of Health and Social Services (tel:867-645-2171). Applicants may also write to: Social Services, Bag 3 RSO Building, Rankin Inlet, NU, X0C 0G0 (fax: 867-645-2580). Note:  Nunavut was part of the Northwest Territories until April 1, 1999. Before that, all births, marriages, deaths, and name changes that occurred in the present Nunavut region would have been registered with the Northwest Territories Registrar General of Vital Statistics.
• Ontario:  Applicants should obtain "large" certificates or certified copies of a registration from the Office of the Registrar General in Toronto (Macdonald Block, 900 Bay Street, second floor, tel: 416-325-8305) or at Ontario Land Registry Offices and Government Information Centers located throughout the province. Further information, including locations and information on ordering by mail is  available online . Note:  For marriages in Ontario, the certificate torn off the marriage license and given to the couple at the conclusion of the ceremony confirms that the marriage took place, but is not a legal document. Applicants must obtain a marriage certificate or certified copy of marriage record from the Office of the Registrar General.
• Prince Edward Island:  Applicants should obtain "framing size" certificates from the Office of Vital Statistics in Montague (126 Douses Road, tel:902-838-0080) or Charlottetown (16 Garfield Street, tel:902-368-6185). Further information, including mail-order instructions, is  available online.
• Quebec:  Applicants should obtain "certified copies of an act" from the Direction de l' Etat Civil in Montreal (2050, rue de Bleury, sixth floor, tel:514-864-3900) or the Directeur de l'Etat Civil in Quebec City (2535, boulevard Laurier, Ground Floor, Sainte-Foy, tel:418-643-3900; fax:418-646-3255). Further information, including other locations and information on ordering by mail is  available online .
• Saskatchewan:  Applicants should obtain "frame" certificates or certified copies of a registration from the Vital Statistics Office in Regina (1942 Hamilton Street, tel:306-787-3251).
• Yukon Territory:  Applicants should obtain "large" certificates or certified copies of a registration from the Vital Statistics Agency in Whitehorse (204 Lambert Street, fourth floor, tel: 867-667-5207) or a Yukon Territorial Agent. Further information, including mail-order instructions, is  available online.

Death/Burial

Deaths are registered in the Canadian provinces or territory in which they took place. Though each province or territory issues its own certificates for these events, there are a few basic formats for them across Canada:

• A "commemorative" certificate  is a decorative document intended for display ( Specimen from Manitoba ). Commemorative certificates are not considered legal documents in Canada and are not acceptable for visa purposes.
• Alberta:  Applicants should obtain "large sized" certificates or certified photocopies of a registration from Alberta Vital Statistics through a private Alberta Registry Agent. Further information, including names and locations of Registry Agents, is  available online . Note: For marriages in Alberta, the certificate torn off the marriage license and given to the couple at the conclusion of the ceremony confirms that the marriage took place, but is not a legal documents. Applicants must obtain a marriage certificate or certified copy of marriage record from Alberta Vital Statistics.
• Manitoba:  Applicants should obtain "large" certificates or certified copies from the Vital Statistics Agency in Winnipeg (254 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, 204-945-3701). Further information, including mail-order instructions, is  available online .
• New Brunswick: Applicants should obtain "long-form certified copies" of records from the Vital Statistics Office in Fredericton (435 King Street, Suite 203, tel: 506-453-2385). Further information, including mail-order instructions, is  available online.
• Newfoundland and Labrador:  Applicants should obtain "long-form certificates" from the Vital Statistics Division in St. John's (5 Mews Place, tel: 709-729-3308) or at Government Service Centers located throughout the province. Further information, including locations and mail-order instructions, is  available online .
• Northwest Territories:  Applicants should obtain "framing" or "restricted photocopy" certificates from the Registrar General of Vital Statistics in Inuvik Office of the Department of Health and Social Services (tel: 867-777-7420). Applicants may also write to: Registrar General of Vital Statistics, Government of the NWT, Bag 9 (107 MacKenzie Road/IDC Building, second floor), Inuvik, NT, X0A 0T0 (fax: 867-777-3197).
• Nunavut:  Applicants should obtain "large" certificates or certified copies of a registration from the Vital Statistics Division, which is based out of the Kivalliq Regional Office of the Department of Health and Social Services (tel:867-645-2171). Applicants may also write to: Social Services, Bag 3 RSO Building, Rankin Inlet, NU, X0C 0G0 (fax: 867-645-2580). Note: Nunavut was part of the Northwest Territories until April 1, 1999. Before that, all births, marriages, deaths, and name changes that occurred in the present Nunavut region would have been registered with the Northwest Territories Registrar General of Vital Statistics.
• Ontario:  Applicants should obtain "large" certificates or certified copies of a registration from the Office of the Registrar General in Toronto (Macdonald Block, 900 Bay Street, second floor, tel: 416-325-8305) or at Ontario Land Registry Offices and Government Information Centers located throughout the province. Further information, including locations and information on ordering by mail is  available online . Note: For marriages in Ontario, the certificate torn off the marriage license and given to the couple at the conclusion of the ceremony confirms that the marriage took place, but is not a legal document. Applicants must obtain a marriage certificate or certified copy of marriage record from the Office of the Registrar General.
• Saskatchewan:  Applicants should obtain "frame" certificates or certified copies of a registration from the Vital Statistics Office in Regina (1942 Hamilton Street, tel:306-787-3251). 

Marriage, Divorce Certificates

Marriages are registered in the Canadian provinces or territory in which they took place. Though each province or territory issues its own certificates for these events, there are a few basic formats for them across Canada:

• A "commemorative" certificate  is a decorative document intended for display ( Specimen from Manitoba ). Commemorative certificates are not considered legal documents in Canada and are not acceptable for visa purposes.

Note:  For cases in which the subject of a birth record was adopted, see "Adoption Records" below.

• Alberta:  Applicants should obtain "large sized" certificates or certified photocopies of a registration from Alberta Vital Statistics through a private Alberta Registry Agent. Further information, including names and locations of Registry Agents, is  available online . Note: For marriages in Alberta, the certificate torn off the marriage license and given to the couple at the conclusion of the ceremony confirms that the marriage took place, but is not a legal documents. Applicants must obtain a marriage certificate or certified copy of marriage record from Alberta Vital Statistics.
• Prince Edward Island:  Applicants should obtain "framing size" certificates from the Office of Vital Statistics in Montague (126 Douses Road, tel:902-838-0080) or Charlottetown (16 Garfield Street, tel:902-368-6185). Further information, including mail-order instructions, is available online.

Canadian divorce records are maintained by provincial and territorial courts. Primary evidence of divorce is the original or court-certified copy of the final divorce decree from the court where the divorce took place. Some provinces also issue a "Certificate of Divorce" similar to a large or full-size marriage certificate (a computer-printed extract of information on currency style stock paper, 21.6 x 17.8cm or 7 x 8.25 in., with an intaglio border). The Certificate of Divorce is also acceptable evidence of divorce, though it has no information about child custody.

To obtain a court-certified copy of a divorce decree or a Certificate of Divorce, applicants should contact the clerk or registrar of the court where the divorce was granted. Applicants unsure of the court in which their divorce proceedings took place may write to the Central Registry of Divorce Proceedings, P.O. Box 2730, Station D, Ottawa, ON, K1P 5W7. The Central Registry cannot issue a divorce certificate, but will be able to confirm at which registry the divorce was granted.

To prevent international child custody disputes, in cases where a divorced parent wishes to have his minor child immigrate to the United States, U.S. diplomatic offices in Canada will request original or court-certified copies of court orders regarding child custody arrangements. Such documents should specify that the parent has "sole custody" of the child. If a divorced parent does not have court-granted sole custody, U.S. diplomatic offices in Canada will request written, notarized consent to the child's immigration from the other parent.

Adoption Certificates

For adoptions in Canada, provincial and territorial vital statistics authorities usually alter original records to obscure the names of birth parents. Therefore, birth certificates issued to applicants who were adopted likely will not accurately reflect the circumstances of their birth.

Access to pre-adoption birth records and adoption orders is restricted by provincial law, and the availability of such records varies by province or territory. In general, provinces and territories will release adoption records to adopted children if the birth parents do not object. However, there may be lengthy delays as the province or territory attempts to contact the birth parents or gives them an opportunity to object to the release of information.

Due to the difficulty in obtaining adoption records, U.S. diplomatic posts in Canada usually do not require adopted applicants to obtain their adoption records for visa purposes unless the adoption record is essential to demonstrating the relationship through which a benefit is claimed. However, U.S. posts reserve the right to request them if the circumstances of the case require it. Applicants who need to obtain pre-adoption birth records and adoption orders should use the contacts listed below.

• Alberta:  Alberta Post Adoption Registry, 11th Floor, Sterling Place, 9940-106 Street, Edmonton, AB, T5K 2N2, Tel: 780-427-6387.
• British Columbia:  Vital Statistics Agency, Confidential Services, P.O. Box 9657, STN PROV GOVT, Victoria, BC, V8W 9P3, tel: 250-952-2236.
• Manitoba:  Manitoba Post-Adoption Registry, 201-114 Garry Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4V5, tel: 204-945-6964.
• New Brunswick:  Post Adoption Disclosure Services, Department of Family and Community Services, P.O. Box 6000, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5H1, tel: (506) 453-2949.
• Newfoundland and Labrador:  Confidential Services, Vital Statistics Division, Department Of Government Services, P.O. Box 8700, St. John's, NL, A1B 4J6, tel: 709-729-3308.
• Northwest Territories:  Registrar -- Adoptions, Department of Health and Social Services, GNWT, Box 1320 - CST 6, Yellowknife, NT, X1A 2L9, tel: 867-873-7943.
• Nova Scotia:  Adoption Disclosure Service Program, Department of Community Services, P.O. Box 696 Halifax, NS, B3J 2T7, tel: 902-424-2755.
• Nunavut:  Department of Health and Social Services, Director of Adoptions, P.O. Box 1000, Station 1000, Iquluit, NU, X0A 0H0, tel: 867-975-5781.
• Ontario:  Adoption Disclosure Unit, Ministry of Community and Social Services, 2 Bloor Street West, 24th Floor, Toronto, ON, M7A 1E9, tel: 416-327-4730.
• Prince Edward Island:  Department of Health and Social Services, Post-Adoption Service, 161 St. Peters Road, P.O. Box 2000, Charlottetown, PE, C1A 5P7, tel: 902-368-6511.
• Quebec:  Youth court (Chambre de la jeunesse) in the judicial district where the adoption took place. Additional information is available through the Quebec Ministry of Justice, tel: 418-643-5140.
• Saskatchewan:  Adoption Registry and Post Adoption Services, Saskatchewan Community Resources and Employment, 11th Floor, 1920 Broad Street, Regina, SK, S4P 3V6, tel: 306-787-3654.
• Yukon Territory:  Children's Services, Health and Social Services, Box 2703, Whitehorse, YU, Y1A 2C6, tel: 867-667-8689.

Note on Aboriginal Custom Adoption:  In some provinces and territories, aboriginal children may be adopted by a process called "Aboriginal Custom Adoption," a privately-arranged adoption between two aboriginal families. Such adoptions have a similar legal effect in Canada to traditional adoptions. However, it is unclear whether such adoptions qualify for U.S. visa purposes under Section 101(b)(1)(E) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Identity Card

The current Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is a laminated, wallet-sized card with a color photograph of the bearer. It has minimal security features. It is evidence of Canadian citizenship and may be used to re-enter Canada. The Commemorative Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is a 21.5 x 28 cm or 8.5 x 14 inch certificate, printed in both French and English, with a print of the Canadian Parliament on the right-hand side. It is an insecure document and is not evidence of Canadian citizenship.

Police, Court, Prison Records

Police certificates.

Fees: Varies by Province

Document Name:   Certified Criminal Record Check – Type of Criminal Record Check for for Personal Use (*Formally known as Privacy Act)

Sub-type: Other (Provide Details)

Details of Information sought: RCMP National Repository Entire Holdings

The following documents WILL NOT be accepted:

• Type of Criminal Record Check for Personal Use: Visa-Border Crossing, Foreign Travel, Work document.
• Provincial or City issued police certificate

Issuing Authority: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Special Seal(s) / Color / Format:  The requested document is fingerprint-based, but the report does not include an image of the applicant or the applicant’s fingerprints.

Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title

Registration Criteria: There is no registration criteria

Procedure for Obtaining: To obtain this document, you must submit your fingerprints to a local police service or RCMP-approved partner agency. You must request a Certified Criminal Record Check For Personal Use. Subtype Other (Provide Details), and ask for a search of the RCMP National Repository Entire Holdings. Applicants must print these instructions and submit them in person when making their requests.

Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available

Exceptions: None

Comments: None

For more information on how to request this document, visit rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Court Records

Applicants who have been convicted of a crime in Canada should obtain a certified copy of court records from the clerk or registrar of the court in which they were convicted. Court records should state the section of the Canadian Criminal Code under which the applicant was convicted, the disposition of the case, and the penalty imposed, if any. Court records must also indicate whether the case was handled as a summary or indictable offense.

Canadian pardons have no effect under U.S. law. Applicants who have been convicted of a crime in Canada that was subsequently pardoned must contact an RCMP office to obtain both a Certified Criminal Record Check and copies of their pardoned criminal record. See "Police Records" above.

In cases of controlled substance violations (such as drug possession, sales, or trafficking), court records should indicate the type and quantity of substance involved. If court records do not include this information, applicants should seek to obtain it from the records of the police service that investigated the case or the Crown prosecutor's office that prosecuted it.

Prison Records

Unavailable.

Military Records

Applicants who are currently members of the Canadian Forces or who were released less than five years ago should send their requests to Director, Access to Information and Privacy (DAIP), National Defence Headquarters, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K2.

Library and Archives Canada maintains service records for ex-Canadian Forces members released more than five years. Applicants should write with their surname, full given name(s), date of birth, and service number or social insurance number to the Personnel Records Unit, Library and Archives Canada, 395 Wellington Street, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0N3.  Additional information is available online.

Passports & Other Travel Documents

The current Canadian passport is a photodigitized document similar to the current U.S. passport and is evidence of Canadian citizenship. Unlike the U.S. passport, the current Canadian passport is valid only five years.

Canadian landed immigrants (also known as permanent residents) may present their national passports in conjunction with their Canadian Permanent Residence Cards. Consult the appropriate country's Reciprocity and Country Documents page for information about its passport. The Canadian permanent resident card is a durable, wallet-sized plastic card with a black-and-white photodigitized image of the bearer. It replaced the computer-generated IMM-1000 "Record of Landing" form in June 2002. Since January 1, 2004, Canadian permanent residents may no longer use the IMM-1000 to re-enter Canada by common carrier.

The current Certificate of Identity/Certificat d' identite is a photodigitized passport-style document with a light grey cover (though older, light brown, non-photodigitized versions remain in circulation). It is issued to persons who cannot obtain passports from their countries of nationality.

The current Travel Document/Titre de voyage is a photodigitized passport-style document with a blue cover (though older, non-photodigitized versions remain in circulation). It is issued to refugees in Canada (asylees in U.S terminology) who cannot obtain passports from their countries of nationality. It is analogous to a U.S. refugee travel document.

Other Records

Name change records.

Change of name records are maintained by provinces and territories. Applicants who have legally changed their name other than by getting married (for example, after Canadian naturalization or after a divorce) should obtain a "Change of Name" certificate from the province or territory in which the name was changed. See "Birth, Marriage, and Death Records," above, for information on formats and obtaining such certificates.

• Visa Issuing Posts

Ottawa  (Embassy) -- Nonimmigrant Visas

Address: 490 Sussex Drive Ottawa, Ontario K1N 1G8

Tel:  (613) 238-5335

Calgary  (Consulate General) -- Nonimmigrant Visas

Halifax  (Consulate General) -- Nonimmigrant Visas

Montreal  (Consulate General) -- Immigrant and Nonimmigrant Visas

Quebec  (Consulate General) -- Nonimmigrant Visas

Toronto  (Consulate General) -- Nonimmigrant Visas

Vancouver  (Consulate General) -- Nonimmigrant Visas

Visa Services

As noted above, Immigrant Visas are only available at the Montreal Consulate General. Nonimmigrant Visas are available in Montreal as well as the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa and the Consulates General in Calgary, Halifax, Montreal, Quebec, Toronto, and Vancouver.

Additional Information for Reciprocity

• Reciprocity: What's New
• Temporary Reciprocity Schedule
• Country Acronyms
• Terrorist Designation Lists
• State Sponsors of Terrorism
• Treaty Countries

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Brunei Darussalam

Burkina Faso

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Congo the Democratic Republic of the

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Côte d'Ivoire

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Guinea-Bissau

Iran, Islamic Republic of

Israel, Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza

Korea, Democratic People's Republic of

Lao People's Democratic Republic

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Micronesia, Federated States of

Moldova, Republic of

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea

North Macedonia

Palestinian Authority

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Russian Federation

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten (Dutch part)

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Virgin Islands, British

Wallis and Futuna

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Canada set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Canada.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Canada, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from Canada, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport. 

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through Canada, most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization ( eTA ) – not both.

Check if you need a visa or an eTA online .

You do not need a visa for short visits (normally up to 6 months). You may need an eTA instead.

You do not need an eTA , if you are:

• arriving by land and sea – you must have acceptable travel documents and ID
• a British-Canadian dual national – you must have a valid Canadian passport

See Canada’s entry requirements for full details of eTA and visa requirements.

Contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK if you are unsure about visa requirements or your eligibility to enter the country, for example, if you have a criminal record or have been arrested.

Checks at border control

Canadian border officials may ask you to show a return or onward ticket and proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay, even if you are staying with family or friends.

Visas for permanent residence, study or work

See information on visas for permanent residence, study or work in Canada .  

Transiting through Canada

If you are travelling through Canada (transiting) by air, you must have an eTA or a transit visa.     

If you have questions, contact:

• your airline
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
• your nearest Canadian high commission, embassy or consulate

Find out more about transiting Canada .

Visa and eTA scams

Some unauthorised websites charge for submitting visa applications. These websites are not associated with the Canadian government.

You can check your eTA status online with the Canadian government . If it has been 72 hours since you applied, and you have not received confirmation of your application, complete an enquiry form .   

Travelling with children

If a child travels alone or with only one parent or legal guardian, they should carry a letter of consent from the non-travelling parents or guardians. Immigration officers have the right to question children using simple and appropriate language to see if there are any concerns about child abduction.

For more information, check with the Canadian High Commission in the UK or the Canada Border Services Agency .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Canada guide . 

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be taken into and out of Canada . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

The Canadian authorities will confiscate banned food products and you could get a fine. For more information, see importing food, plants or animals to Canada .

If you visit a farm or have contact with wild animals before entering Canada, and plan to visit a farm during your stay, you must declare this on your Customs Declaration Card. For more information, see biosecurity at the Canadian border .

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Network maintenance

Due to system maintenance, some sections of the site will be unavailable from 3 am to 7 am (EST) on Sunday, December 18, 2022 .

Due to system maintenance, the CFIA website will be unavailable from 7 am to 7 pm (EST) on Saturday, October 16, 2021 . We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Travelling with a pet

Pets must meet specific requirements when travelling to Canada or another country. It is your responsibility to review all the requirements for your situation.

Some requirements must be completed at specific times and if not completed correctly or on time your pet may not be eligible to travel and be refused entry.

As soon as you know your travel details, contact your local veterinarian to assist with the pet travel process. Requirements could include obtaining a health certificate, updating vaccinations, testing, or administering medications.

Only dogs, cats and ferrets qualify as pets by CFIA. Check requirements for other animals if you're travelling with a non-traditional pet.

Travelling to Canada from another country (import requirements)

Requirements for bringing an animal into Canada apply to the following situation:

• animals entering Canada permanently
• animals in transit through Canada on their way to a final destination
• animals entering Canada for a temporary visit
• Canadian animals returning to Canada

Travelling from Canada to another country (export requirements)

The country you're travelling to may have requirements your pet must meet before they can enter the country. Export requirements are determined by each country and can change frequently. Every time you plan to travel with your pet, it is your responsibility to check the requirements and allow enough time to get your pet ready to travel.

• Pets (dogs, cats and ferrets)
• All other animals

Related links

• Travelling to the United States with a pet
• Look up import requirements (AIRS)

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• Français fr

Proof of financial support

You must prove that you can support yourself and the family members who come with you while you are in Canada.

What we accept as proof

You can prove your funds with

• proof of a Canadian bank account in your name, if you’ve transferred money to Canada
• a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution
• proof of a student or education loan from a bank
• your bank statements for the past 4 months
• a bank draft that can be converted to Canadian dollars
• proof you paid tuition and housing fees
• a letter from the person or school giving you money, or
• proof of funding paid from within Canada, if you have a scholarship or are in a Canadian-funded educational program

If your country uses foreign exchange controls, you must prove that you’ll be allowed to export funds for all of your expenses.

Minimum funds needed to support yourself as a student (and family members who come with you)

All provinces except quebec.

If you and 2 family members want to come to a province (other than Quebec) for a year, you will need

• living expenses: $10,000 (for the student)
• living expenses: $4,000 (for the first family member)
• living expenses: $3,000 (for the second family member) Total: $17,000

If you and 2 family members want to come to a province (other than Quebec) for a year, you will need $31,583 for living expenses.

To study in Quebec, applicants must prove they meet the financial requirements outlined by the ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration .

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