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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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Latest border and travel measures

This news release may not reflect the current border and travel measures. Check COVID-19: Travel, testing and borders for the latest requirements to enter Canada.

Important notice

Note that information and resources on the coronavirus (COVID-19) are available on Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html

Adjustments to Canada’s border and travel measures

From: Public Health Agency of Canada

Backgrounder

The Government of Canada will adjust some of Canada’s border measures beginning on Nov. 30 to include additional COVID-19 vaccines accepted for entry to Canada and changes to certain exemptions, testing and ArriveCAN requirements.

November 19, 2021

Today, the Government of Canada announced upcoming adjustments to Canada’s border measures. This backgrounder provides additional context to support travellers in understanding COVID-19 testing and vaccine requirements, as well as other border measures, which are an important part of Canada’s response to the global COVID-19 pandemic and serve to protect the health and safety of all Canadians.

Eliminating COVID-19 testing for air and land crossings of less than 72 hours

Effective November 30, 2021, fully vaccinated individuals with right of entry to Canada, who depart and re-enter the country within 72 hours of leaving Canada are exempt from providing a pre-entry COVID-19 molecular test result . This exemption is only for trips originating in Canada taken by fully vaccinated Canadian citizens, permanent residents or individuals registered under the Indian Act , who depart and re-enter by land or by air and can demonstrate they have been away from Canada for less than 72 hours.

The exemption will also apply to:

• people with medical contraindications as defined in the Orders in Council (OIC); and
• unvaccinated children under 12 who are accompanying their parent, step-parent, guardian or tutor. The accompanying adult must be fully vaccinated (or have a contraindication) and have right of entry into Canada.

For fully vaccinated travellers with right of entry into Canada who are travelling by air, the 72-hour period runs from the initially scheduled departure time for their flight leaving Canada to the scheduled departure time for their return flight to Canada. Travellers will be responsible for maintaining proof of the 72-hour period to show airline/rail companies and border officials as required (e.g., boarding pass, travel itinerary).

Expanded list of accepted vaccines for the purpose of travel

Effective November 30, 2021, the Government of Canada will expand its list of accepted vaccines for the purposes of entry into Canada and exemption from some testing and quarantine requirements. The list will include Sinopharm, Sinovac and COVAXIN, matching the World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Use Listing (EUL).

The EUL is an internationally recognized process to assess vaccines within an existing regulatory structure. The WHO uses the EUL to accelerate the availability of medical products needed in public health emergency situations. The process is based on an expert review of available data on the quality, safety, and efficacy/immunogenicity/performance of each individual product. The COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) also leverages the WHO EUL for its COVID-19 vaccine portfolio.

To be considered fully vaccinated, a traveller must have received the full series of a vaccine—or combination of vaccines— accepted by the Government of Canada at least 14 days prior to entering Canada. Travellers can receive their vaccine in any country, and must upload their proof of vaccination in English or French into ArriveCAN when travelling to Canada. If the proof of vaccination is not in English or French, travellers must provide a certified translation in English or French. Travellers must bring proof with them when they travel that includes text with the vaccinations and dates received. Travellers must also comply with all other measures under the OICs, including pre-entry testing (unless exempt) and a suitable quarantine plan. Where available, Canadians are strongly encouraged to use the Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination .

The expanded list of COVID-19 vaccines and the definition of what is considered fully vaccinated will also be applied to the national vaccination requirements for the federally regulated transportation sectors.

Entry Requirements: Adjustments for certain travellers entering Canada

As of January 15, 2022, certain groups of travellers, who are currently exempt from entry requirements, will only be allowed to enter the country if they are fully vaccinated with one of the vaccines approved for entry into Canada. These groups include:

• Individuals travelling to reunite with family (unless they are under 18 years of age if travelling to reunite with an immediate or extended family member who is either fully vaccinated or a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person registered under the Indian Act. )
• Fully vaccinated students will be allowed to attend any provincially or territorially designated learning institution in Canada.
• Unvaccinated students under the age of 18 must attend a designated learning institution with a COVID-19 readiness plan approved by the province or territory where the school is located.
• Professional athletes and their support staff, and amateur athletes.
• Individuals with a valid work permit, including temporary foreign workers, outside of agricultural and food processing.
• Most essential service providers (including truck drivers, emergency service providers and marine researchers).

As of November 30, 2021, travellers need to be fully vaccinated to travel within Canada with very few exceptions. There is a limited period, until January 14, 2022, during which individuals in specified exempt groups can continue to enter the country if unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, as well as take a connecting flight to their final destination that is scheduled to depart within 24 hours of the departure time of their flight to enter Canada. However, if they remain unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, they will not be allowed to take a plane or train beyond their original connection, except to depart Canada before February 28, 2022. As such, all travellers are strongly advised to make plans to get vaccinated as soon as they can, in order to travel freely in and outside the country.

On January 15, 2022, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers will only be allowed to enter Canada if they meet one of the limited exceptions, including:

• agricultural and food processing workers;
• foreign marine crew members;
• those entering on compassionate grounds;
• new permanent residents;
• newly resettled refugees;
• children under the age of 18 who are currently exempt from the travel restrictions, including international students who are studying at a designated learning institution that has a COVID-19 readiness plan; those travelling with a parent, step-parent, tutor or guardian who is either fully vaccinated, or a Canadian citizen, permanent resident of Canada or person registered under the Indian Act ; and those travelling to reunite with immediate or extended Canadian family members in Canada; and
• national interest exemptions.

Unvaccinated children under the age of 12 who are travelling with fully vaccinated adults do not need to quarantine BUT must follow public measures:

• Attend school, camp or day care.
• Attend a setting where they may have contact with vulnerable people (e.g., long term care facility), including people who are immunocompromised, regardless of that person’s vaccination status or public health measures.
• Travel on crowded public transportation that does not ensure physical distancing and masking.
• Attend large crowded settings, indoors or outdoors, such as an amusement park or sporting event.
• In addition, the child must take COVID-19 molecular tests as instructed, unless their parent, step-parent, tutor or guardian has evidence that the child had a positive COVID-19 test taken 10 to 180 days prior to arrival in Canada or the child is under 5 years of age.

Unless exempt, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers eligible to enter Canada will be required to:

• have proof of a negative molecular pre-entry test taken no more than 72 hours before their flight’s initial scheduled departure time or arrival at the land border, or a previous positive COVID-19 molecular test taken within 10 and 180 days before arrival;
• complete arrival (day 1) and post-arrival (day 8) testing;
• quarantine for 14 days in a suitable place; and
• submit all of the information above in ArriveCAN via the free mobile app or website.

ArriveCAN: New requirements for essential travellers

As of November 30, 2021, all exempt essential service providers will be required to identify their vaccination status in ArriveCAN , regardless of whether or not they are allowed to enter as unvaccinated. ArriveCAN will prompt them to provide details on their vaccine(s), including manufacturer, country received and date received, and to upload their proof of vaccination.

Exempt essential travellers include those travelling as/for:

• most essential service providers (including most temporary foreign workers, emergency service providers and marine researchers);
• cross-border work (e.g., you regularly cross the border to work);
• medical and health care support (e.g., health care practitioner, to receive medical care, or to transport medical equipment or supplies);
• trade and transport (e.g., truck driver or crew member on any aircraft, shipping vessel, or train); and
• people who live in integrated trans-border communities.

If an exempt essential traveller previously created a reusable ArriveCAN receipt, they will be required to either download the latest version of the free ArriveCAN mobile app or sign in to the web version after November 30, 2021, and re-submit all of their information, including the newly required information on proof of vaccinations, to get a new exempt reusable ArriveCAN receipt. Once an exempt traveller creates a new reusable receipt, the receipt can be used for subsequent trips.

Until January 15, 2022, if an exempt essential traveller is not vaccinated, they will still be able to get an ArriveCAN receipt. After January 15, 2022, they must be fully vaccinated to get an ArriveCAN receipt. As of this date, most travellers who are currently exempt from quarantine will need to be fully vaccinated to enter Canada. They will also be required to upload their proof of vaccination in ArriveCAN.

Mandatory vaccination for federally regulated transportation sectors

As announced on August 13, 2021 , travellers in the federally regulated air and rail sectors will need to be vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine accepted by the Government of Canada for the purpose of travel. After extensive consultations, Transport Canada issued orders and guidance to airlines and railways to implement the vaccination requirements for travellers, which came into effect at 3 AM (EDT) October 30, 2021.

The vaccination requirements apply to all travellers, 12 years of age plus four months, who are:

• Air passengers flying on domestic, trans-border or international flights departing from most airports in Canada; and
• Rail passengers on VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains.

As of November 30, 2021, a valid COVID-19 test will no longer be accepted as an alternative to vaccination for travel within Canada. To take a flight or a train, travellers must be fully vaccinated with one of the expanded list of vaccinations unless they qualify for a limited exemption to this requirement. These include:

• Medical inability to be vaccinated;
• Essential or urgent medical services and treatment;
• Sincere religious beliefs;
• Emergency travel; and
• Other travel in the national interest.

For domestic and outbound travel, airlines and railways will administer the process for considering a traveller’s medical inability to be vaccinated, essential medical services and treatment, sincere religious beliefs, and emergency/urgent travel (including for urgent medical reasons). Travellers who think they may be eligible for one of these exemptions should contact their airline or railway company to obtain the necessary form and submit it in accordance with their carrier’s approval process (forms available starting November 30, 2021).

Transport Canada will administer exemptions for other domestic and outbound travel in the national interest. Travellers granted an exemption will need to have a valid COVID-19 molecular test, taken no more than 72 hours before boarding a regulated flight or train. Travellers will be able to submit applications under the domestic National Interest Exemption Program starting November 30.

Airlines and railways will continue to be responsible for confirming the vaccination status of travellers. In the aviation mode, the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) will also support operators by confirming vaccination status.

This vaccination requirement continues to include specific accommodation to recognize the unique needs of travellers from small, remote communities (some of which are not accessible by road) to ensure they will be able to travel to obtain essential services in support of their medical, health, or social well-being, and return safely to their homes. The specific requirements for these communities will continue to evolve based on engagement with Indigenous organizations and provinces and territories in the coming weeks.

Transport Canada continues to work with the cruise ship industry, and other domestic and international partners, to permit the safe re-opening of Canada to cruise ship travel in spring 2022, including the specific vaccination requirements for cruise ship passengers, and other health protocols. Additional information will be available in the coming weeks.

The Government of Canada will continue to engage with key stakeholders, employers, airlines and railways, bargaining agents, Indigenous Peoples, local authorities, and provinces and territories to support the implementation of the vaccination requirement.

For travellers entering Canada: While Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and persons registered under the Indian Act will still be able to enter Canada if they are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, they will not be permitted to travel beyond their point of entry within Canada on a connecting flight or by rail. These travellers should plan their return accordingly by selecting a Canadian airport that is closest to their final destination, and expect to be subject to testing and quarantine.

After January 15, 2022, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated agricultural and agri-food workers, new permanent residents, and some children under the age of 18 will still be allowed to travel onward domestically to get established in Canada, but will also continue to be subject to testing and quarantine. Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated resettled refugees will continue to be allowed to enter Canada and stringent health and safety protocols remain in place.

Foreign nationals who reside in Canada temporarily, and who entered Canada as unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, will be allowed to leave the country without being fully vaccinated up until February 28, 2022. After that time, foreign nationals will need to be fully vaccinated to board a flight or train in Canada.

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Verified Travellers

An improved security-screening experience at select airports across Canada for eligible travellers.

Verified Travellers are identified as travellers who have undergone extensive background checks and carry special photo identification cards.

Verified Travellers have three experiences available at select pre-board screening checkpoints across Canada:

• Leave permitted liquids, aerosols and gels in your carry-on.
• Leave laptops and electronics in your carry-on.
• Keep shoes, belts, light jackets and headwear on*.
• Keep small items in your pockets.
• Co-travellers 17 years or younger and 75 years and older can accompany you.

*Passengers wearing headwear, including religious or cultural head coverings, may keep it on, however, additional screening of the headwear or head covering is required. If there is an alarm in the head area and it cannot be properly resolved, you may be required to remove your headwear or head covering in order for a physical search to be conducted.

Available at the following airports:

• Calgary International Airport - Domestic C 
• Edmonton International Airport - Domestic /Int'l 
• Halifax Stanfield International Airport - Domestic /Int'l - pilot - 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Montréal-Trudeau International Airport - Domestic/Int'l
• Ottawa International Airport - Domestic /Int'l - pilot - 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Toronto Pearson International Airport - T1 Domestic Level 3
• Toronto Pearson International Airport - T3 Domestic
• Vancouver International Airport - E-United States - pilot
• Vancouver ​International Airport - Security Point 3 – Canada
• Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport – Domestic/Int’l
• Co-travellers can accompany you.
• Montréal-Trudeau International Airport – T1 transborder
• Toronto Pearson International Airport - T1 transborder
• Toronto Pearson International Airport – T3 transborder
• Will receive front of the line service.
• Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport - Domestic
• Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport – transborder
• Calgary International Airport - Concourse A - transborder
• Calgary International Airport – Concourse D - transborder
• Calgary International Airport - Concourse E - transborder
• Edmonton International Airport – transborder
• Greater Moncton Roméo Leblanc International Airport - Domestic/Int'l/transborder
• Halifax Stanfield International Airport – Domestic/Int’l - pilot - 3:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
• Kelowna International Airport - Domestic/Int'l/Transborder
• Ottawa International Airport – Domestic/Int’l - pilot - 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
• Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport - Domestic/Int'l/transborder
• Regina International Airport - Domestic/Int'l/transborder
• Saskatoon International Airport - Domestic/Int'l/transborder
• St. John's International Airport - Domestic/Int'l/transborder
• Toronto Pearson International Airport - T1 Int'l
• Toronto Pearson International Airport – T3 Int'l
• Vancouver International Airport - D-International
• Vancouver International Airport - ABC-Canada
• Victoria International Airport - Domestic/Int'l/transborder
• Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport - transborder

Verified travellers must comply with screening rules for non-permitted and prohibited items and will be asked to pass through a walk-through metal detector or full body scanner. Your carry-on items will be X-rayed. You may also be required to undergo additional search procedures. You may also be randomly diverted to a regular screening line as part of CATSA’s multi-layered approach to security screening.

Verified Traveller Membership:

NEXUS: NEXUS is a Canada Border Services Agency program to provide eligible travellers with faster customs and immigration processing when crossing the border between Canada and the U.S. You can apply for a NEXUS card online at www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca .

Global Entry: 

Global Entr y is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, lower-risk travellers upon arrival in the United States.

Military:  

Serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces and US military , including reservists, all with valid ID (no uniform required);

Air Crew / RAIC:  

Canadian aircrew (in uniform) and airport workers with Restricted Area Identification Cards and International aircrew (in uniform) with valid airline ID;

Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officers with proper photo identification issued by their respective organization.

Police:  The experience offered at pre-board screening checkpoints across Canada may vary.

Canadian police officers and constables with a badge and proper photo identification issued by their organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Verified Traveller program provides travellers who have undergone extensive background checks with added benefits at select security screening checkpoints across Canada.

A list of benefits by checkpoint is available here .

Signage will be posted at the front of all checkpoints that offer a Verified Traveller service, as well as the benefits offered at that checkpoint. A list of checkpoints and associated services is available here .

The Verified Traveller program was fully launched on June 21, 2023.

CATSA is committed to continuously improving its operations, including the facilitation of passengers through security screening checkpoints. The new Verified Traveller program aims to improve the security screening experience for verified travellers.

Co-travellers who are 17 years of age and under or 75 years of age and older can access CATSA’s Verified Traveller screening lines when travelling with a verified traveller on the same flight.

There are no age restrictions to co-travellers accessing Verified Traveller lines at Transborder checkpoints (flights to the U.S.) or checkpoints offering front-of-the-line service.

Verified travellers are passengers who have undergone extensive background checks and carry special photo identification cards.

They include:

• members of NEXUS and Global Entry programs;
• serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces and U.S. military, including reservists, all with valid ID (no uniform required);
• Canadian aircrew and airport workers with Restricted Area Identification Cards (RAICs);
• international aircrew in uniform with valid airline ID; and
• Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officers, Canadian police officers and constables with a badge and proper photo identification issued by their respective organizations.

CATSA recognizes NEXUS members as verified travellers. You can learn more about NEXUS membership by visiting the Canada Border Services Agency website .

CATSA is committed to a barrier-free security screening experience for persons with disabilities. Verified Traveller lines are fully accessible and available to all eligible travellers.

Pre-board security screening checkpoint hours may vary based on operational need. If the checkpoint is open, all Verified Traveller services at that checkpoint will be available.

During CATSA’s trial of the program at Ottawa International Airport and Halifax Stanfield International Airport, the experience offered at the domestic/international checkpoint will vary throughout the day:

Ottawa International Airport

• Dedicated Verified Traveller service: 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Front-of-the-line service: 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Halifax Stanfield International Airport

• Dedicated Verified Traveller service: 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Front-of-the-line service: 3:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.

No added benefits will be available to verified travellers at these locations.

The new Verified Traveller program aims to improve the security screening experience for verified travellers. General wait times vary from checkpoint to checkpoint for a variety of reasons and can fluctuate throughout the day based on passenger volume and number of flights. CATSA recommends that travellers arrive two hours in advance for domestic flights and three hours in advance for US and international flights

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Identification Requirements

Remember your ID and travel documents.

You've planned and paid for your trip and you're ready to go. Don't let missing travel documents stop your plans short.

Guests of all ages require identification that matches the name and spelling on their ticket. You are responsible for making sure that you, and any child travelling with you, have the proper identification and travel documentation required to enter or connect through each country on your itinerary. Please consult with the  nearest embassy or consulate  of each country you plan to visit.

ID at boarding

The WestJet agent at the gate will verify your ID prior to boarding by ensuring that the name on your boarding pass matches your name on the ID and that you resemble the photo on your ID.

Denial of boarding

You may be denied boarding if you do not resemble the photo on your ID, if the name on your boarding pass does not match your name on your ID or if you present more than one piece of identification and there is a significant discrepancy between these forms of identification.

We are no longer required to deny boarding if you do not appear to be the gender or age listed on your ID. However, we must still verify your ID to determine if you are 18 years of age or older.

Note: Information and guidance on this page is not meant to replace policies and regulations from official government sources. Visit the Government of Canada website to learn more.  

Know before you go

Use our travel requirements tool to help book your next getaway.

International travel

Travel within canada, travel to, from or over the u.s., travel to the united states – electronic travel systems authorization (esta).

Travelling to the United States by air and you are a foreign traveler who does not require a visa to travel to the United States, please visit  https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/esta  to find out how to apply online for an Electronic Travel Systems Authorization (ESTA) at least 72 hours prior to travel. Applicants who apply on the same day of their flight’s departure risk not having an approved ESTA prior to their scheduled departure. Canadian Citizens do not require an Electronic Travel Systems Authorization for travel to the United States.

Secure Flight Program

Airlines are required to submit specific information to the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for all guests travelling to, from or over the continental U.S. (excluding flights between two Canadian locations). The following information must be submitted 72 hours before travel or at the time of booking for bookings made less than 72 hours before flight departure:

• name (as it appears on the government-issued ID that will be used when travelling)
• date of birth
• redress number  (if applicable)
• known traveller number (if applicable)

For more information, please refer to the TSA's website regarding the  Secure Flight Program .

U.S. Customs and Border Protections (CBP)

U.S. CBP is required to collect the following information from persons entering the U.S.:

• Date of birth
• Citizenship
• Passport number
• Passport country of issuance
• Passport expiration date
• Country of residence
• Your address while in the U.S.

Note: Address information is not required of U.S. citizens and legal U.S. Permanent Residents (who must provide their alien registration number).

• is an expedited security screening program that connects travellers departing from specific airports within the U.S. with smarter security and a better travel experience. TSA Pre✔® helps take the stress out of travel with no need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts or light jackets.
• uses a risk-based, intelligence-driven approach to provide the most effective security in the most efficient way.
• travellers who have passed the TSA Pre✔®/ NEXUS or Global Entry vetting requirements become trusted travellers and receive expedited security screening.

With TSA Pre✔®

• dedicated security lane
• expedited airport security screening
• no removal of belts, shoes, light jackets, bag of liquids, gels and aerosols (100 ml limit) from carry-on, laptops

Guests with TSA Pre✔®

To obtain a boarding pass with TSA Pre✔®, please enter your Known Traveler Number (KTN) during web, mobile, kiosk check-in or at a WestJet guest assistance counter at the U.S. departure station. If eligible, you will receive the TSA Pre✔® indicator on your boarding pass and you can head straight to the TSA Pre✔® security checkpoint.

Lost or stolen passports

If your passport has been lost or stolen, contact the consulate/embassy of your issuing country immediately. Canadians can report a lost or stolen passport to the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate. Passports located or turned in to a WestJet representative will be returned to the originating country.

We strongly recommend that you  apply for a new passport  if your current passport is damaged. Guests travelling with a passport that is damaged in any way could face significant delays and may be denied boarding.

Requirements of government authorities

As mentioned in the  WestJet Privacy Policy , we are required to collect personal information by government authorities in the U.S., Canada and other countries, and that information may be disclosed to those authorities without your knowledge or consent as required by law. It is the policy of WestJet to only collect and disclose what is required by law, and nothing further.

Transit without Visa Program

WestJet is a member of the Canadian Transit without Visa Program for guests entering Canada through Vancouver International Airport only. This program allows Chinese, Indonesian, Thai and Filipino nationals to travel Visa exempt with WestJet from the U.S. to Vancouver and connect to another flight departing Canada. Chinese, Indonesian, Thai and Filipino nationals must have a Temporary Resident Visa to enter Canada via any other city and connect to another flight departing Canada. Please refer to the Government of Canada website for more information.

Travel to Canada - Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Travelling to Canada by air and you are a foreign traveler who does not require a visa to travel to Canada, please visit  Canada.ca/eTA  to find out how to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization prior to travel. Foreign travelers with a valid Canadian visa, U.S. citizens, Canadian Citizens and Canadian Permanent residents do not require an Electronic Travel Authorization for travel to Canada.

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All identification information outlined above applies to your travel. You should also be aware that some hotel and activity suppliers may require ID for redemption of services.

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COVID-19 measures, updates, and guidance issued by Transport Canada

From: Transport Canada

Updates to transportation related measures taken by Transport Canada in response to the evolving novel Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). For travel advice and all other updates, please visit Canada.ca/coronavirus.

Wearing masks for travel within Canada is not required .

Although the masking requirement is being lifted, all travellers are strongly recommended to wear high quality and well-fitted masks during their journeys.

Privacy Notice Statement - Covid-19 Vaccination Transportation Policy

Transport Canada is committed to respecting your privacy. The purpose of this Privacy Notice Statement is to outline how Transport Canada will handle the collection, use, disclosure, retention, protection and processing of personal information of passengers and crew in the federally regulated air, rail and marine sectors in the context of the mandatory vaccination requirements under applicable orders, in compliance with its obligations under the federal Privacy Act , the Privacy Regulations, and in accordance with applicable policies, directives and guidelines of the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat (TBS).

Please refer to section 3 of the Privacy Act for details regarding personal information.

Necessity of Collection

Transport Canada is responsible for monitoring and supervising Canada’s national transportation system comprising the air, marine and inter-provincial rail transportation sectors. Under various statutes, Transport Canada has adopted measures imposing mandatory vaccination requirements in these sectors which seek to address the significant safety risks posed by COVID-19 to Canada’s transportation system. Mandatory vaccination requirements apply to all passengers, crew and other designated persons in federally regulated air, rail and marine sectors, with very limited exceptions, and require them to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This is a part of Transport Canada’s approach to protecting passengers and employees and the community from COVID-19 and ensuring safe workplaces.

The collection of personal information related to a person’s compliance with applicable Transport Canada measures is a necessary component of monitoring and ensuring the safety of each transportation sector and the national transportation system more broadly. Vaccination is one of the most effective tools available to protect against the health and safety impacts of the COVID-19 global pandemic on the transportation sector. The collection of information on passenger travel and denial of boarding related to COVID-19 vaccination, combined with other preventative public health measures adopted by Transport Canada, helps ensure the best available protection for Canadians travelling, working, or otherwise involved in the transportation system.

Transport Canada’s Audit and Enforcement Activities in the Transportation Sector

Transport Canada is responsible for operationalizing the vaccine mandate for the transportation sector, and oversees compliance with the mandate through inspections and other enforcement tools. Below you will find more information on how personal information is handled in this context for each transportation mode.

1. Aviation

Legal authority of collection.

For specified classes of individuals subject to the applicable Interim Order Respecting Certain Requirements for Civil Aviation Due to COVID-19 (Interim Order), Transport Canada may collect personal information in the course of an inspection or audit pursuant to sections 8.7 and 8.8 of the Aeronautics Act . The authority to issue Interim Orders is pursuant to sections 4.71 and 6.41 of this Act.

Class of Individuals:

Air passengers departing from airports in Canada, crew members, employees working in restricted areas (who are not boarding flights), aerodrome operators, and employees of federally-regulated transportation companies, or any class of individual listed in the applicable Interim Order Respecting Certain Requirements for Civil Aviation Due to COVID-19.

Description of Personal Information and Purpose of Collection:

Transport Canada may collect personal information for the purposes of monitoring and auditing compliance with Interim Orders and related enforcement activities, for example, during instances of non-compliance by those subject to the applicable the Interim Order requirements.

To comply with the Interim Order requirements, air carriers and federally-regulated operators and screening authorities will document when an individual is denied boarding or denied entry into the restricted area of the airport based on the Interim Order requirements and notify Transport Canada of such incidents. Furthermore, as required under the Interim Order, if an air carrier or the screening authority has reason to believe that a person has provided a confirmation or evidence related to the Interim Order that is likely to be false or misleading, they must notify Transport Canada and provide information to Transport Canada if requested. To follow-up on these reports, Transport Canada may request a copy of the record under its oversight and compliance program as outlined in the Aeronautics Act and the applicable Interim Order.

The information to be provided to Transport Canada, at the time of notification or upon request, may include personal information, such as, but not limited to:

• home address
• telephone number
• email address
• flight date, number and carrier
• number/identifier of the document of entitlement (for access to restricted areas)
• the reason why the person was denied permission to board, or denied entry/access
• This could include information related to the person’s vaccination status
• This could include information related to the person’s vaccination status, religious belief, occupation or work, and/or medical information.
• This could include information such as name and contact information of the person’s medical doctor or nurse practitioner
• other, as deemed necessary.

Consistent Uses and Disclosures:

Transport Canada may use this personal information to monitor, assess and enforce regulations, including, in certain cases, to impose monetary penalties, to protect public safety under the Aeronautics Act and its applicable Interim Orders. This personal information may be disclosed to other federal institutions where authorized by law.

Personal information may also be used in depersonalized reports for monitoring and statistical purposes as well as various related administrative functions.

Retention and Disposal Standards:

All documentation and personal information provided in this context and for the purposes of audit and enforcement by Transport Canada will be retained for a period which will be determined and communicated on this page when available.

Personal Information Bank “Aviation Enforcement”:

In accordance with the provisions of the Privacy Act , the personal information collected is described in Personal Information Bank (PIB) entitled “Aviation Enforcement”, Transport Canada PPU 015. The full text of this PIB is currently being modified to include the activities mentioned above. The modified PIB will be published in Transport Canada’s chapter of the TBS Info Source publication, which is available at https://tc.canada.ca/en/info-source or by contacting Transport Canada’s ATIP Office at [email protected] .

Legal Authority for Collection

Transport Canada may collect personal information pursuant to section 32.01 of the Railway Safety Act and its applicable Ministerial Orders in the course of inspection and enforcement.

Rail passengers on VIA Rail, AMTRAK, and Rocky Mountaineer trains, as well as employees of federally-regulated railway companies who have been identified in the course of inspection or enforcement of the requirements under the applicable Ministerial Order.

Description of Personal Information and Purpose of Collection

Transport Canada may collect personal information for the purposes of inspection and enforcement activities to verify compliance with the Railway Safety Act and its applicable Ministerial Orders. Furthermore, as required under Ministerial Orders, if a railway company has reason to believe that a person has provided a confirmation or evidence that is likely to be false or misleading, they must notify and may provide information to Transport Canada, if requested.

• date, travel code, and carrier
• the reason why the person was denied permission to board

Transport Canada may use personal information to monitor, assess and enforce regulations to protect public safety under the Rail Safety Act and its applicable Ministerial Orders. This personal information may be disclosed to other federal institutions where authorized by law.

Retention and Disposal:

Personal information bank.

The collection, use, and disclosure of personal information will be further described in a personal information bank which is currently under development.

Transport Canada may collect personal information pursuant to the applicable Interim Order Respecting Passenger Vessel Restrictions due to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), made pursuant to the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 , and the authority of inspectors under section 211 of the Act.

Marine passengers on non-essential passenger vessels, such as cruise ships, on voyages of more than 24 hours, and other classes of individuals who have been identified as relevant for data collection related to inspections and/or other enforcement actions related to the requirements under the Interim Order.

Transport Canada may collect personal information for the purposes of audit and enforcement activities to comply with the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 and its applicable Interim Orders. Furthermore, as required under Ministerial Orders, if a federally-regulated company has reason to believe that a person has provided a confirmation or evidence that is likely to be false or misleading, they must notify and may provide information to Transport Canada, if requested.

• date and trip details, vessel name

Transport Canada may use personal information to monitor, assess and enforce regulations to protect public safety under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 and its applicable Interim Orders. This personal information may be disclosed to other federal institutions where authorized by law.

Personal Information Bank: “Marine Safety Enforcement Program”

The collection, use, and disclosure of personal information will be further described in the Personal Information Bank entitled “Marine Safety Enforcement Program”, Transport Canada PPU 021. The full text of this PIB is currently being modified to include the activities mentioned above. The modified PIB will be published in Transport Canada’s chapter of the TBS Info Source publication, which is available at https://tc.canada.ca/en/info-source or by contacting Transport Canada’s ATIP Office at [email protected] .

4. Transport Canada’s National Interest Exemption Form Process

Transport Canada may collect personal information pursuant to the applicable legislation, under the Aeronautics Act , Railway Safety Act or Canada Shipping Act, 2001 , and it will only be used and disclosed by Transport Canada in accordance with the Privacy Act and its regulations.

Persons seeking to travel by air, rail, or marine mode, and subject to requirements as ‘passengers’ in the relevant Interim or Ministerial Order.

Transport Canada may collect personal information for the purposes of approving or denying requests for exemption from the requirement for mandatory full vaccination under the applicable Interim or Ministerial Orders where the purpose for the travel is exceptional, and considered to be in the national interest.

The information to be provided to Transport Canada by the traveller (or acting party) for consideration under the National Interest Exemption process may include personal information, such as, but not limited to:

• date of birth
• name of associated organization/employer
• reason for exemption: in a clinical trial for COVID vaccines, critical infrastructure needs, other national interest – and brief description
• trip details (e.g. departure date and city, destination, mode of travel)
• other, as deemed necessary (e.g. amplifying information related to purpose of travel to determine if it meets criteria of national interest).

Personal information collected in this form may be used by Transport Canada for the following purposes:

• determine the qualification of the applicant identified on the form for temporary exemption to the mandatory requirement for vaccination for exceptional travel in the national interest;
• contact the individual in the event that Transport Canada requires clarification, additional information, and/or to address requests for modification;
• communicate the approval or denial to the applicant;
• for public health follow-up (including disclosure of specified information for this purpose to the organization and/or site(s) specific to the applicant’s exemption); and/or,
• for program evaluation and aggregate statistics.

Transport Canada may collect and use personal information to monitor, assess, and enforce regulations to protect public safety under the Aeronautics Act , Railway Safety Act or Canada Shipping Act, 2001 and its applicable Interim or Ministerial Orders. This personal information may be disclosed to other federal institutions where necessary to render a decision or where authorized by law.

In other limited and specific circumstances, personal information may be used and/or disclosed without consent in accordance with section 7 and subsection 8(2) of the Privacy Act .

All documentation and personal information provided in this context and for the purposes of receiving an exemption will be retained for a minimum of three years following its last administrative use.

The personal information provided to Transport Canada is governed in accordance with the Privacy Act and its regulations and is requested as part of the Government of Canada's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Personal information collected, as well as its use, disclosure, and retention, is typically described in a Personal Information Bank published on Transport Canada’s Info Source page ( https://tc.canada.ca/en/info-source ). At this time, the relevant Personal Information Bank is under development or may not yet reflect this activity.

Under the Privacy Act , you have the right to access your personal information and request corrections to your personal information. Should you wish to exercise your rights under the Privacy Act , or have any questions about this privacy notice statement, contact Transport Canada’s ATIP Office:

Transport Canada Access to Information and Privacy Office Place de Ville, Tower C 330 Sparks Street Ottawa, ON, K1A 0N5 [email protected]

Should you wish to lodge a complaint with respect to the handling of your personal information, you may do so by contacting the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada .

Updates to Privacy Notice Statement

The updated Privacy Notice Statement will supersede earlier versions and will apply to personal information provided to Transport Canada at any juncture.

   Detailed information

Guidance, exemptions, safety alerts and bulletins for the air industry during the COVID-19 pandemic

Marine Transportation

Guidance, interim orders and ship safety bulletins for the marine industry during the COVID-19 pandemic

Road Transportation

Guidance for the road industry during the COVID-19 pandemic

Rail Transportation

Guidance, orders and temporary exemptions for the rail industry during the COVID-19 pandemic

Transportation of Dangerous Goods

Temporary certificates and transporting requirements for transporting dangerous goods during the COVID-19 pandemic

Transport Canada Newsroom

News releases and backgrounders on changes in Canada’s transportation sector due to the COVID-19 pandemic

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ezbordercrossing

US Canada Border Crossing Guide

Documents You Need to Cross the Border

The different types of border crossing documentation.

• Passport Card
• Enhanced Driver License / Enhanced Identification Card

Global Entry

The US will require a “ Real-ID compliant document ” when a US citizen boards any domestic flight after May 3, 2023. You will not be allowed to board your flight if you do not have a Real ID compliant document, but it is not required to cross the US and Canadian border. A Real ID is not a separate type of identification. It is any documentation that the US federal government considers to be highly secure and accurate. Typically, this will be your passport or a state issued enhanced driver’s license. You still need your passport if you are flying internationally. Below are the types of documents the US considers Real-ID compliant. This list may change over time:

• Some states have different markings so you will need to check with your state’s licensing authority to confirm whether you have a Real ID compliant license.
• In order to get a Real ID compliant driver’s license, you will need to submit several pieces of identification when you apply for renewal, and you will need to make an in-person appointment at the DMV. When you get your renewal notice in the mail, it will state whether or not your license or state ID is REAL ID compliant.
• PIV or Federally-issued Personal Identification Verification – Interoperable (PIV-I) Cards
• Driver’s License issued by the U.S. Department of State
• Border Crossing Card (Form DSP-150)
• DHS “Trusted Traveler” Cards – Global Entry , Nexus , SENTRI , FAST
• U.S. Military ID: all members of the U.S. Armed Forces (including retirees and dependent ID card holders) and veterans.
• Veterans Health Identification Card issued by the U. S. Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
• U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551)
• U.S. Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-550)
• Employment Authorization Document issued by DHS (Form I-766)
• U.S. Refugee Travel Document or other travel document or evidence of immigration status issued by DHS containing a photograph (Permit to Re-enter Form I-327 and Refugee Travel Document Form I-571)
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
• Merchant Mariner Card issued by DHS/United States Coast Guard (USCG)
• State prisoner identification cards
• Interim Driver’s License issued by a state that meets the REAL ID standards or has an extension
• Native American Tribal Photo ID

A passport is a small booklet issued by all countries for international travel. It is the most universally accepted type of documentation proving your identity and country of residence. It is frequently the only piece of documentation you require for short term travel to another country.

Most passports now contain RFID chips, which electronically transmit the same information as on the passport’s picture page, including a digital version of your passport photograph. American passports have RFID-proofing built into their covers so they can only be scanned when opened within the passport.

U.S. Passports

In the U.S., you can apply for a passport in person at your local post office or another type of passport acceptance facility. If you already own a passport, you can renew by mail, although there are a few exceptions, so make sure you read the instructions carefully.

It generally takes 3 – 6 weeks for a U.S. passport application to be approved. There is less demand in winter months, so processing is much quicker then. It can be longer than 6 weeks in the spring as travel season approaches. Make sure you apply early enough to receive it before you want to leave. If you need a passport or visa more quickly, we have a separate page explaining how to get an expedited passport or visa .

Canadian Passports

Normal turn-around time for a Canadian passport is typically 4 weeks. For an additional fee you can use an expedited process which will complete in around 2 weeks. We have a separate page with information on renewing or getting a passport, plus how to get an expedited Canadian Passport .

Canada uses electronic passports called ePassports. They look like the older passports, but have an electronic chip inserted into them. The chip holds your family name, sex, birth date, as well as birth location and a digital image of the passport holder’s face. Passports are issued for 10 year terms, although there is a cheaper version available for only 5 years.

Canadian passports for children under 16 are valid for five years.

Mexican Passports

You can go online to start the process to apply for a Mexican passport . It can take up to 8 weeks for the passport to be delivered once you’ve provided all the necessary paperwork, so be sure to begin well before you plan to travel.

U.S. Passport Card – People Access Security Service (PASS)

The passport card looks similar to a driver’s license. Like passports, they are issued by the U.S. Department of State and are valid for 10 years. This card lets you travel between by land or sea between the US, Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, but it is not valid for travel by air or to any other international location. The card is less expensive and more portable than a full passport.

If you already have a valid passport, you may apply by mail. Otherwise, you must apply in person at your local post office. Make sure you apply at least six weeks before travel – especially just before heavy travel periods such as summer.

See the United States Department of State website or call the National Passport Information Center at 877-487-2778 for more information.

Enhanced Drivers License / Enhanced Identification Card / Enhanced Tribal ID Card – EDL / EIC

These three types of enhanced identification cards look just like a regular license but contain a magnetic strip and a microchip that will give the border protection officer access to your file on their computer systems automatically. It is a form of “trusted traveler” documentation that will speed up your border crossing because you are “pre-qualified.”

These IDs will speed up your travel by land or water into Canada, the United States, Mexico or the Caribbean. Like a passport card, they are NOT valid for travel by air, or to anywhere else in the world. Be aware of this if you are travelling across the border by car but then returning by air – or if you are going through another country along the way!

Like NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST cards, the Enhanced ID cards contain a radio frequency Identification (RFID) chip that transmits a number as much as 30 feet away. The RFID chip is read as the vehicle queues for inspection at the border and pulls up your biographic information, a photo, and the results of terrorist/criminal checks. The border protection officer can look at the results quickly instead of entering information which enables faster processing.

To obtain an enhanced identification card you will undergo a background check by the issuing authority. Typically, you will need to pay a fee and submit items such as your Social Security card, proof of date of birth, proof of U.S. or Canadian citizenship and proof residence in the issuing jurisdiction. Not all states or Canadian provinces will issue an enhanced ID.

You can obtain an EDL / EIC for:

• Washington State
• New York State
• British Columbia

Information on how to obtain an EDL or EIC from any of these jurisdictions can be found at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Website or the Canadian Border Services Agency .

NEXUS is another “trusted traveler” program that is designed to speed your drive across either the U.S. or Canadian border. It can also be used for flying into certain airports and for marine travel. This card is typically used by commuters who cross the border on a frequent basis. NEXUS members avoid wait times at border crossings by using dedicated lanes which are open at various hours of the day. We have seen reports claiming NEXUS members saved an average of 30 minutes at land crossings.

NEXUS applicants pay a fee and voluntarily undergo a background check, in-person interview and fingerprinting. A criminal check done by NEXUS will turn up any criminal activity whether or not you were found guilty . If you have been fingerprinted for a criminal charge, your NEXUS application will most likely be rejected although there is an appeal process.

To get a Nexus pass, you can submit an online application at the  U.S. Trusted Traveler website or the Canadian NEXUS application website . You may also go to the nearest enrollment center and fill out an application form. For more information on the application process, call 1-866-NEXUS26 (1-866-639-8726) from both the U.S. and Canada.

NEXUS Notes:

• Border officers conduct random inspection of NEXUS users to catch those who try to smuggle goods across the border. You will have your NEXUS card revoked if you violate any border crossing rule. This will be permanently a part of your record and may complicate all future border crossings.
• Many card holders lose their rights because they bring prohibited goods across the border. Given that the U.S. and Canada have different rules on what is permissible, it is not uncommon for users to face revocation because of honest mistakes such as bringing groceries or garden plants home with them. Make sure you check our page on prohibited items to understand what is permitted and what is not!
• Going through a NEXUS lane with passengers who do not have NEXUS cards can cost you your card. Remember that all children must also have a card to use the lane.
• NEXUS users must not have any commercial goods to sell in their possession or in their baggage when entering the US.
• We have seen some advice from travelers that Nexus holders should still carry a passport to avoid unexpected issues.
• The card is an accepted form of identification for crossing the U.S. / Canadian border in either direction at non-NEXUS locations .
• The card is for use only between the U.S. and Canada . Travelers still need a passport to travel to other international destinations such as Mexico.
• This is an accepted form of ID for Ready Lanes .
• Children 17 and under may apply for their NEXUS Card for free , so you may want to get them one while you apply for your own.

Like NEXUS, Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows faster clearance for pre-approved travelers when you arrive in the United States. This program differs from NEXUS in two ways: it applies to travelers from countries other than Canada, and it allows expedited entry into the U.S. only – it cannot be used for entry into Canada or any other country. NEXUS is therefore a better bet for U.S. / Canadian commuters or others making frequent trips between the two countries. Global Entry is good at many airports, and land and sea borders.

As with all trusted traveler programs, you must be pre-approved for the Global Entry program. All applicants undergo a rigorous background check and interview before enrollment. You can get more information and apply for Global Entry at the Global Entry website .

FAST – Free and Secure Trade

The FAST card is another “trusted traveler” card similar to NEXUS that allows you to get through customs more quickly. FAST is designed for carriers of commercial goods and provides dedicated border crossing lanes and expedited clearance to truckers at the U.S. border with Canada and Mexico.

FAST members reported saving an average of 27 minutes when entering the United States and 18 minutes when entering Canada.

The card may be used in either a FAST lane or other land border crossings. However, the card cannot be used to enter the US in a Sentri or NEXUS lane.

To use a FAST lane all persons in a vehicle must possess a valid FAST Commercial Driver card, and the vehicle must be transporting eligible goods .

To obtain a FAST card, drivers, carriers, and importers must undergo a risk assessment. For more information on FAST, go to the  Canadian Border Services Agency or the U.S. CPB website .

Visas are not required for American or Canadian tourists visiting either country for stays of up to 180 days. Visitors from other countries should review our links for Canadian Visa information or United States Visa information .

A Canpass card is issued by the Canadian Border Services Agency to facilitate border clearance for individuals wishing to cross the border into Canada in the following remote areas:

• from Pigeon River through to and including Lake of the Woods
• the Canadian shore of Lake Superior
• Cockburn Island
• Sault Ste. Marie (upper lock system)

It is not a substitute for a passport or other necessary documentation.

SENTRI – Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection

SENTRI is a land-border crossing program that speeds up CBP processing for pre-approved, low-risk travelers along the U.S.-Mexico border. SENTRI members can use the NEXUS lane when entering the United States from Canada, but cannot use the SENTRI card to enter Canada via the NEXUS lane.

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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)

Where provinces and territories stand on travel restrictions as Omicron concerns rise

Travelling within canada you may face different rules on testing, quarantining depending on your destination.

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The federal government is advising Canadians to avoid non-essential travel outside Canada  as the Omicron variant spreads rapidly worldwide. Incoming travellers are subject to testing and self-isolation requirements  based on their vaccination status.

But when it comes to travel within Canada, the rules vary. Individual provinces and territories may have their own set of restrictions and quarantine rules that people must follow in addition to federal guidelines.

For people travelling by plane or train between jurisdictions, a federal policy currently requires everyone 12 and up to show proof of vaccination to board domestic or international flights departing from most airports in Canada, as well as VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains.

Here's a look at some of the other rules travellers may face depending on the province or territory they are entering.

(There may be additional or separate rules for travellers coming from outside of Canada or children under the age of 12; check each jurisdiction's website for details.)

Newfoundland and Labrador

Nearly everyone 12 and up entering Newfoundland and Labrador must submit this travel form within 30 days of their expected travel date, with  limited exemptions .

If a traveller is fully vaccinated:

Starting Dec. 21, incoming travellers  must self-isolate for five days upon arrival and take a rapid COVID-19 test every day for five days, after which point they can leave isolation if all results are negative. 

Rotational workers can follow modified self-isolation for those five days but must also book a PCR test between Days 0-3. Anyone who has visited a post-secondary institution outside the province in the past 14 days must also take a PCR test within their first days of arrival.

If a traveller is not fully vaccinated:

Travellers must self-isolate until they receive the negative results from a PCR test taken on Day 7 or later, or self-isolate for 14 days if they choose not to be tested. 

They must avoid vulnerable people and are barred from visiting long-term care facilities, sporting events and large crowded settings in the first 14 days after they arrive.

On Dec. 17, the province banned any travel around the province for sporting events, recreation and arts events , though teams can continue to play within their own region.

Challenges with COVID-19 testing access affects accuracy of case counts

Prince edward island.

As of Dec. 22, all travellers coming onto the Island will be required to self-isolate .

Fully vaccinated: 

• They are required to self-isolate for four days.
• They will receive rapid antigen screening tests from the government, according to a news release , and must test negative using those tests on Day 2 and Day 4 of their isolation.
• They are asked not to host or attend New Year's Eve parties or staff parties while in the province.

Not fully vaccinated:

• They must isolate for eight days and receive negative results from two rapid tests, taken when they arrive in the province and on Day 8 of their isolation.
• They must also submit a self-isolation declaration form, which can be found here .

P.E.I. announced on Dec. 14 it is banning travel to or from the province for participation in organized recreational events , including sports, arts and culture-related gatherings. The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Maritime Junior Hockey League are exempt.

Nova Scotia

Nearly everyone ages 12 and up must complete this safe check-in form before entering Nova Scotia from another province or territory. This includes people who are fully vaccinated.

Those who don't need to complete the form (full list of exemptions here ) include travellers who are following the COVID-19 Protocol for Atlantic Canada Travel . This guidance applies to people who travel between Nova Scotia and another Atlantic province regularly or for certain reasons.

Fully vaccinated:

Travellers are not required to self-isolate, though testing is recommended.

Travellers may need to self-isolate for seven days, at which point they can leave self-isolation 1) if they receive two negative test results or 2) without getting tested if they have official documentation showing they recently recovered from COVID-19. 

Certain travellers who are not fully vaccinated, such as some essential workers, are exempt from the self-isolation requirement but may need to follow a separate protocol .

On Dec. 1, Nova Scotia announced new rules for children 11 and under that prohibit travelling into or out of the province to participate in arts or sports games, competitions and tournaments.

New Brunswick

All travellers ages 12 and up must pre-register online here and provide proof of vaccination (or proof of medical exemption), with some exceptions .

Travellers are not required to self-isolate and can apply for a multi-use pass.

Travellers must self-isolate for 14 days or until they obtain a negative test result on Day 10 or later. They will be required to register for each trip into the province.

Travellers who have proof of a medical exemption don't need to self-isolate and can apply for a multi-use pass.

Travellers arriving from another province or territory don't need to self-isolate, but the province says non-essential travel should be avoided .

Travel to the territories of Nunavik and the Cree Territory of James Bay is restricted to essential reasons (humanitarian, for work or to obtain health care). Those entering the regions are subject to conditions including a 14-day quarantine.

Travellers arriving from another province or territory don't need to self-isolate  unless they have COVID-19 symptoms.

In Thunder Bay, officials are asking residents to avoid all non-essential travel outside the region regardless of vaccination status.

‘Rules are changing all the time:’ Advice for travellers in the era of omicron

Travellers are not required to self-isolate . However, they are strongly advised to get a COVID-19 test on Day 1 of arrival, and again on Day 10.

With some exceptions , travellers must self-isolate for 14 days, regardless of test results or whether they are showing symptoms.

Manitoba also has a public health order in place restricting travel to northern Manitoba and remote communities.

Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan's website does not list any province-specific travel restrictions, but notes travellers returning from an out-of-province trip do not have to self-isolate .

However, passengers who travelled on flights with confirmed cases of COVID-19 are asked to self‑monitor for symptoms for 14 days after their arrival.

As with other provinces and territories, travellers in Alberta must follow federal requirements for travel within Canada .

Canada warns against non-essential travel abroad as Omicron spreads

British columbia.

As with other provinces and territories, travellers in British Columbia must follow federal requirements for travel within Canada .

That means proof of vaccination is required for those ages 12 and up on plane, train and cruise ships. However, BC Ferries does not require proof of vaccination.

While there are no restrictions barring entry into Yukon , the territory's health officials recommend avoiding travel between communities until further notice.

Some First Nations governments and communities may have additional travel advisories in place, which can be found  here .

Northwest Territories

Non-residents are currently not allowed to enter the territory for leisure travel unless they are travelling to a remote tourist location. Certain other non-residents may qualify for an exemption . 

All residents entering the territory, regardless of vaccination status, must submit a Self-Isolation Plan (SIP) .

On Dec. 17, the territory loosened isolation requirements for some travellers while introducing some new testing requirements for fully vaccinated travellers.

Travellers are not required to self-isolate once they have an approved SIP.

Those travelling into small communities (as defined here ) or who either work or volunteer with vulnerable populations must take a Day 0 or 1 test, followed by a Day 8 test.

Travellers must self-isolate for 10 days but can end self-isolation early on Day 8 if they obtain a negative test taken by a health-care provider.

Those travelling into small communities must complete their self-isolation in a larger centre.

All travellers who depart or connect through Iqaluit airport (including people who travel from Iqaluit to another Nunavut community) must meet the federal travel requirements for vaccination and testing. 

While Ottawa has barred unvaccinated travellers over the age of 12 from boarding a plane or train in Canada, it is accepting a valid COVID-19 molecular test as an alternative for passengers from remote communities and in other limited situations .

The federal requirements don't apply to travellers flying between Nunavut communities who do not transit through the Iqaluit airport.

Related Stories

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COVID-19: Travel, testing and borders

Return or travel to canada.

For all travellers entering Canada by air, land or marine mode:

• 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
• to save time at the border, you can use Advance Declaration in ArriveCAN to submit your customs and immigration declaration before flying into Canada
• Pre-boarding tests for cruise passengers are not required
• As always, travel documents are required
• Health checks to board planes and trains are not required
• It's strongly recommended that you wear a well-constructed and well-fitted mask or respirator while you travel

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 , you shouldn't travel to Canada.

If you feel sick or experience any symptoms of COVID-19 during your travel to Canada or upon arrival, you should:

• inform the flight attendant, cruise staff or a border services officer upon arrival. You may be referred to a Quarantine Officer for a health assessment and further direction.
• avoid taking public transportation
• check provincial or territorial requirements for what you need to do if you’re symptomatic or have tested positive for COVID-19

Travelling in and out of Canada

• International travel advice and advisories
• COVID-19 and international travel
• Proof of vaccination
• Find out if you need a visa

Wearing masks on planes and trains in Canada is not required.

• It's still strongly recommended that you wear a high quality and well-fitted mask or respirator while you travel

Situation in Canada

• COVID-19 guidance, vaccines, limiting the spread
• Summary data about travellers, testing and compliance

The Government of Canada will continue to monitor the situation. See the COVID-19 border measures backgrounder .