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Traveller entry requirements

How to prepare for crossing the border into Canada

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Travel and identification documents for entering canada.

Acceptable documents, establishing your personal identity, your citizenship and other important information

Find out if you can enter Canada

Visas, Electronic Travel Authorizations and other documentation you may need to enter or transit through Canada

Visas, Electronic Travel Authorizations and other documentation you may need to enter or transit through Canada.

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Visiting Canada

Do I Need an eTA for Canada? – Electronic Travel Authorization

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a travel document required for travellers coming to Canada from visa-exempt countries. Only individuals from visa -exempt countries are required to get an eTA, and only if they are arriving in Canada by air.

What is an ETA? 

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to or transiting through Canada.

Only travellers from countries who do not require a visa to visit Canada are required to get an eTA, and only if they are travelling to Canada by air. If you’re from a visa-exempt country visiting Canada by land, you do not need an eTA.

Anyone who has a Canadian visa, Canadian  permanent residence , or  Canadian citizenship  does not need an eTA travel document to enter Canada.

Do I need an eTA?

1. lawful permanent residents and canadian citizens.

Lawful permanent residents of Canada, do not need an eTA. Instead, you will need your valid  Permanent Resident Card  (PR Card) or Permanent Resident Travel Document to travel to Canada.

If you are a dual citizen, meaning you hold Canadian citizenship and at least one other citizenship, you do not need an eTA to enter Canada. However, if you are entering Canada by air, you must be travelling with a valid Canadian passport.

2. Foreign nationals

Answer the following simple questions to find out if you need an eTA Canada travel document:

• Am I part of the visa-exempt foreign nationals? Check the updated list on the government website: Visa-exempt (eTA eligible) travellers list. The previous list of travellers need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to board their flight to Canada.
• Am I travelling to or through Canada by air?Even if you are an eTA eligible , you do not need an eTA if entering by land or sea – for instance, driving from the U.S. or coming by bus, train, or boat, including cruise ship.

FAQ about eTA for traveling to Canada

Do i need an eta if i have a valid study permit or work permit.

If you are from a visa-exempt country and have been granted a study permit or  work permit , IRCC will automatically issue you an eTA when they accept your study or work permit application.

However, if you are from a visa-exempt country and received your permit before August 1, 2015, you may need to apply for an eTA if you plan to leave and return to Canada by air.

Do U.S. citizens need to apply for an eTA?

U.S. citizens  do not require a visa or an eTA  to travel to Canada. If you are a U.S. citizen, you can visit Canada with your valid passport.

As of April 26, 2022, U.S. permanent residents ( Green Card holders ) no longer require an eTA to travel to Canada.

How to apply for an eTA

Travellers must apply for an eta by submitting their application on the  Government of Canada website . To apply, you must have a valid email address.

How much does an eTA for Canada cost?

The Canadian government charges $7 CAD for an eTA. To make the payment, applicants must have a valid debit or credit card.

What does an eTA look like?

Since an eTA is a digital document, it is electronically tied to your passport number. As such, you will not receive a physical document from the Government of Canada.

How long is an eTA valid for?

An eTA is valid for five years upon approval, or when your passport expires, whichever comes first. To check whether your eTA is still valid, use Canada’s  eTA status check tool .

How long does it take for an eTA for Canada to be approved?

The Canadian government approves most eTAs within minutes. However, the processing sometimes takes longer. If you are required to submit additional documents, you may receive instructions to do so within 72 hours of applying.

Interested in coming to Canada permanently? Discover your options today with our free online assessment!

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Travel and identification documents for entering Canada

From: Canada Border Services Agency

October 1, 2022 : COVID-19 emergency border measures ended

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

Make sure you carry proper identification for yourself and any children or minors travelling with you.

On this page

Residents or visitors flying into canada, residents returning to canada, international visitors to canada, travel with children and minors, related links.

Your airline carrier will ask you for travel and identification documents before allowing you to board the aircraft. Being allowed to board does not mean you have the right or will be authorized to enter Canada. A border services officer will determine whether you can enter Canada when you arrive, by confirming your identity and citizenship.

More information

• Pre-boarding identification requirements
• Find out if you can enter Canada

Planning travel to Canada? Visit COVID-19 : Entering Canada requirements checklist for information about quarantine and your admissibility to Canada.

Canadian citizens, permanent residents and persons registered under the Indian Act enter Canada by right. However, returning residents must still demonstrate to a border services officer that they meet the requirements for entering Canada. The officer will confirm your identity and your right to enter Canada through questioning and/or by verifying your documents.

Acceptable documents to denote identity and citizenship

If you have a Canadian passport

Carry a valid Canadian passport for all visits abroad, including visits to the US. It is the only universally accepted identification document and it proves that you have a right to return to Canada.

If you don’t have a Canadian passport

Oher acceptable documents that support identity and/or citizenship include, but are not limited to:

• Canadian emergency travel document
• Canadian temporary passport
• CANPASS authorization, held by a Canadian citizen
• Commercial driver registration program card, held by a Canadian citizen
• FAST card (Free and Secure Trade), held by a Canadian citizen
• NEXUS card, held by a Canadian citizen
• Canadian permanent residence card
• Canadian citizenship card
• Certificate of Canadian citizenship (issued from 1954 to present)
• Certificate of Canadian citizenship (large form issued between January 1, 1947 , to February 14, 1977 )
• Certificate of retention (issued between January 1, 1947 , and February 14, 1977 )
• Certificate of naturalization (issued before January 1, 1947 )
• Registration of birth abroad certificate (issued between January 1, 1947 , and February 14, 1977 , by Canadian citizenship authorities)
• Birth certificate (individuals born in Canada)
• Driver's license
• Enhanced driver's license
• Enhanced identification/photo card
• Health insurance card
• Identity card
• Vehicle registration
• Canadian Forces identification
• Employment or student card with photo and signature
• Police identification
• Firearms acquisition certificate
• Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) card or Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) card
• Vehicle insurance certificate

Permanent residents of Canada who are members of the NEXUS or FAST programs must travel with a passport and proof of permanent residence , and may be asked to present these documents to the officer upon arrival at the border.

Every person registered under the Indian Act can enter and remain in Canada by right as per subsection A19(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act . The Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS), more commonly referred to as the Status card, is an identity document issued by Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada confirming that the cardholder is registered as a Status Indian under the Indian Act .

Note: The Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) was replaced by the SCIS in 2019. Although both CIS and SCIS cards can be presented at the border to confirm status and right of entry (including expired CIS cards), we highly recommend travellers obtain a new SCIS .

If you plan to travel to or transit through the US , we encourage you to visit the US Customs and Border Protection website for information concerning the US Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, and the requirements to enter or return to the US .

For information on Canada- US border-crossing issues, visit Crossing the Canada- US border with a status card .

• Canadian permanent residents
• Dual citizens

Check Travel health measures

All international travellers must carry acceptable identification when entering Canada. A passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document when abroad.

Before making travel plans, learn about entry requirements by country .

What you need will depend on:

• where you are from
• how you are travelling
• what documents you are travelling with

In addition to your passport, you may need a travel authorization such as a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.

Consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s website to learn which authorization you need:

• Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada
• Find out if you are eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

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.

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 Electronic Travel Application .

US citizens or permanent residents

If you are a US citizen or permanent resident, you must carry proof of citizenship such as a:

• birth certificate
• certificate of citizenship or naturalization
• certificate of Indian Status along with photo identification
• US Permanent Resident Card

If you are a US permanent resident, ensure you carry proof of your status such as a US Permanent Resident Card.

When travelling with a minor, you should:

• carry copies of any legal custody documents, such as custody rights, if applicable
• arrive at the border in the same vehicle as the minor
• you share custody of the minor and the other parent or legal guardian is not travelling with you
• you are not the parent or legal guardian of the minor

A consent letter must include the custodial parents' or legal guardians':

• telephone number

Border services officers are always watching for missing children and may ask questions about minors travelling with you.

To avoid delays, have your consent letter notarized to support its authenticity. For more information on consent letters and to download an interactive form, visit Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad .

• Children and travel
• Our Missing Children program
• Travelling with animals
• Lost, stolen, seized, inaccessible or damaged passports
• Programs for trusted travellers

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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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Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for Canada

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If you are traveling to Canada by air you likely require either a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Your requirements depend on your country of citizenship.

If you’re travelling from a visa-exempt country, you’ll require an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) in order to enter. You can quickly and easily apply for an eTA online for a cost of only CAD$7. While eTAs are often granted in a matter of minutes, it can take several days, so you should always apply ahead of time.

Notably, U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents of the U.S. are exempt from the eTA requirement.

Once your eTA is approved, it will be valid for five years or until your passport expires. There are a number of exemptions  where an eTA will not be required. These include:

• Visitors arriving by land or sea.
• Those with permanent residency – however, they will need to travel with their permanent resident card.
• Citizens and lawful permanent residents of the United States.
• Travellers with a valid Canada visa.
• Passengers on a flight that, because of an emergency or other unforeseen circumstances, makes an unscheduled stop in Canada.

What is a visa-exempt country? Canada requires citizens of certain countries to apply for a visa in order to enter. However, many countries are visa-exempt, meaning that citizens can enter Canada without an official visa. Here’s a breakdown by country:

Not sure if you need a visa or eTA? Click here to find out.

Eta fees and application process.

The eTA is an additional requirement that air passengers will need to follow – meaning they will still be required to show their passport and follow all existing documents and identification rules.

Accepted payment methods for the CAD$7 fee include credit cards and debit cards.

The application should only take a few minutes, and an eTA will usually be granted a few minutes later. IRCC advises that last-minute applications, while not recommended, are possible and can be made on any device with an internet connection, including mobile phones.

Since launching the eTA requirement in 2016, Canada has issued more than 4 million eTAs annually in an average year.

• To apply for an eTA, and for more information,  you can visit the IRCC website .

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Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Citizens of certain countries are exempt from the requirement to obtain a temporary resident visa (trv). for these individuals, the government of canada has introduced what is known as electronic travel authorization (eta)..

Before the eTA system was introduced, visa-exempt foreign nationals seeking entry to Canada were not systematically screened for admissibility until they arrived at a Canadian Port of Entry.

The eTA is mandatory for most visitors from countries whose citizens do not require a TRV who are entering Canada by air. Citizens of visa-exempt countries intending to travel to Canada by air are expected to have applied for an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before their departure to Canada. Exceptions to this include citizens of the United States, who do not require a TRV or an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), and Green Card holders in the United States, who need an eTA to come to Canada, regardless of their nationality.

Countries with Conditional Eligibility

• Country Checklist

The Canadian pre-approval system is only required for TRV-exempt individuals seeking to enter Canada by air to visit on a temporary basis. To read a comprehensive list of frequently asked eTA-related questions and answers,  click here . 

Individuals requiring an eTA in order to visit Canada are asked to fill out some personal information and answer a few basic questions relating to criminality or medical issues.

To complete the online form, you need:

• a valid passport from a visa-exempt country,
• a credit card to pay the $7.00 CAD fee,
• a valid email address, and
• access to the internet and a few minutes of your time.

The eTA will be valid for a period of five years from the day on which it is issued to the applicant or until the earliest of the following days, if they occur before the end of that period:

• the day on which the applicant’s passport or other travel document expires,
• the day on which the electronic travel authorization is cancelled, or
• the day on which a new electronic travel authorization is issued to the applicant.

The eTA includes the applicant’s name, date and place of birth, gender, address, nationality, and passport and/or travel document information. If the applicant is unable to make the application by means of the electronic system because of a physical or mental disability, it may be made by another means, including a paper application form.

There are a number of exemptions from the requirement to obtain an eTA. Click this slide to review of list of exemptions.

• Nationals of the United States.
• Her Majesty the Queen of Canada and any member of the Royal Family.
• Citizens of France who are residents of St. Pierre and Miquelon who seek to enter Canada directly from St. Pierre and Miquelon.
• Visitors, students and workers, who seek to re-enter Canada after solely visiting either the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, providing that they return to Canada by the end of the period initially authorized for their stay or any extension to it.
• possess proper documents to enter the United States and their flight is bound for that country, or
• They were lawfully admitted to the United States and their flight originated in that country.
• Foreign nationals who are passengers on a flight that, owing to an emergency or other unforeseen circumstances, makes an unscheduled stop in Canada.
• Foreign nationals seeking to transit through Canada under the Transit Without Visa or China Transit Program.
• Foreign nationals who hold a passport that contains a diplomatic acceptance, a consular acceptance or an official acceptance issued by the Chief of Protocol for the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade on behalf of the Government of Canada and are properly accredited diplomats, consular officers, representatives or officials of a country other than Canada, of the United Nations or any of its agencies, or of any international organization of which Canada is a member.
• As a crew member of a means of transportation that may be used for transportation by air or to become a member of such a crew, or
• To transit through Canada after working, or to work, as a crew member of a means of transportation that may be used for transportation by air, if they possess a ticket for departure from Canada within 24 hours after their arrival in Canada.
• Foreign nationals seeking to enter and remain in Canada solely to carry out official duties as a member of the armed forces of a country that is a designated state for the purposes of the Visiting Forces Act , unless they have been designated under that Act as a civilian component of those armed forces.
• Foreign nationals seeking to enter and remain in Canada solely to conduct inspections of the flight operation procedures or cabin safety of a commercial air carrier operating international flights, if they are a civil aviation inspector of a national aeronautical authority and possess valid documentation to that effect.
• Foreign nationals seeking to enter and remain in Canada solely to participate as an accredited representative or as an adviser to an aviation accident or incident investigation conducted under the Canadian Transportation Accident Investigation and Safety Board Act , if they possess valid documentation to that effect.

Citizens of some countries may be eligible for an eTA if they meet all three of the following conditions. If not they will have to pursue a TRV to travel to Canada. 

To be eligible for an eTA these travellers must:

• The U.S. nonimmigrant visa must be valid on the day that an individual applies for their eTA, but doesn’t need to be valid when they travel to Canada.
• be coming to Canada for a short visit, business or tourist activity (normally for stays of up to 6 months); and
• arriving to Canada by air, or transiting through a Canadian airport using a valid passport from one of the eligible visa-required countries. 

These conditional eligibility rules for an eTA apply to citizens of the following (visa-required) countries:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Philippines
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago

Country Checklist: Electronic Travel Authorization

TRVs are required for citizens of certain countries. The chart below outlines which individuals require a TRV and which individuals need an eTA in order to enter Canada.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

Contact the Cohen Immigration Law Firm for Assistance

Do you need professional assistance getting Canadian TRV? The Cohen Immigration Law Firm can help. We offer over 45 years of Canadian immigration expertise.

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Canada's express entry draw results from august 14, 2024.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted a second Express Entry draw this week, issuing 3,200 more Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to Canadian immigration candidates. Here are the results from IRCC's August 14 Express Entry draw.

Canada's Express Entry Draw Results from July 31, 2024

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted a second Express Entry draw this week. Read on for the results from the department's July 31st Express Entry draw.

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Do I need a Canada ETA if I travel by land?

According to Canada visa policy, 58 nationalities are exempt from getting a visa if they wish to visit Canada for short-term stays. However, all those nationalities, except for US citizens, are required to have a Canada ETA before departure if they travel by air. As a result, if you travel by land and enter Canada through a US border or by sea, a Canada ETA is not necessary .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do i need an eta to travel to canada.

If you plan to arrive by land, then an ETA is not necessary . However, if you are going to arrive by air, then you WILL NEED an ETA. You can check the requirements here and more info here .

At the same time, if you do decide to travel to Canada by air, we can help you obtain a Canada ETA in as little as 36 hours .

What is a Canada ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)?

An ETA is a new entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals who arrive in Canada by air. As of March 15, 2016, visa-exempt country nationals who fly/transit Canada will need the ETA. Exceptions include US citizens and travelers with a valid visa issued by the Canadian Embassy.

How long can visitors with an ETA stay in Canada?

This ETA allows its holders a maximum stay of 180 days per entry with Multiple entry to the country.

What are the documents required to apply?

Prior to applying, we recommend that you put together all the necessary documents you are required to provide. This is a short list, and it is probable that you already have everything you need.

Valid passport – all applicants must hold a valid passport that remains as such for at least another 6 months from the date of arrival in Canada. Also, keep in mind that an expired passport also means an expired ETA.

An email address – since the application process is entirely online, you will receive the ETA via email. That is why you need an address to which you have access.

Means of payment – for the same reason as above, you need to have an online means of payment. iVisa accepts multiple methods. You can use a credit or a debit card, but PayPal is accepted as well.

How long is the ETA valid?

It is valid for 5 years after issued or until passport expires .

What are the processing times and prices?

iVisa offers three options to its applicants. The three options are:

Standard processing – if the circumstances allow it, you can go for the slowest and cheapest option. By choosing the standard option, you agree to have your application processed within 4 days . The cost of this option is USD $99.49 .

Rush processing – if time is of the issue, you can choose this option and have your Canada ETA in your e-mail inbox in just 2 days . However, you will be charged USD $135.49 .

Super Rush processing – emergency situation call for the fastest processing time available. Your application is processed within 36 hours , but the cost is a bit higher. The fee for this option is USD $198.49 .

Click here to start your application.

How does the Canada ETA work?

In March 2015, the Canadian Government introduced a new entry requirement known as an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This new ETA has become a requirement for all citizens of visa-exempt countries who travel to Canada by air.

An ETA is electronically linked to a traveler’s passport. It is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. With a valid ETA, you can travel to Canada as often as you want for short stays (up to six months at a time). The information entered will be sent electronically to the Canada Department of Immigration and we will send your Canada ETA online via email.

How can I apply for a Canada ETA?

Filling out the application form is really easy, and it should not take more than 10 minutes to complete. If you need help, iVisa has an excellent support service that can help you 24/7. The service is free of charge.

The application form has three steps:

The first one asks for your basic information, passport info, and some details about your trip . You are also required to select one of the three available processing time options .

Step number two consists of payment and revision . You must make sure that your application does not contain any errors or typos. Otherwise, your Canada ETA will be invalid, and you need to repeat the process.

The last step is about documents upload . iVisa will ask for a copy of your passport’s information page, as well as additional documents should that be necessary. Once all three steps are complete, you can submit your application.

Is it safe to use iVisa to get my ETA?

Many people think that online information leaks and that their personal info is at risk of getting into the wrong hands. However, that is not the case with our services. We provide maximum safety for your personal data, confidentiality, and we invest a lot in the security of our database. Your personal information could not be safer. You can check testimonials of our happy customers here .

I have more unresolved questions, where can I find more info?

Click here to start chatting with one of our customer service representatives, they will answer all your questions. You can also find more info and FAQs here .

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Related Articles

Toronto Airport Departure Guide: Start your journey from Canada with ease

Canada Visa rejection: Common reasons and how to avoid it

Check Canada visa status: Track your application

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Canada to the U.S. International Travel Guide (2024)

with our partner, Faye

Alex Carver is a writer and researcher based in Charlotte, N.C. A contributor to major news websites such as Automoblog and USA Today, she’s written content in sectors such as insurance, warranties, shipping, real estate and more.

Tori Addison is an editor who has worked in the digital marketing industry for over five years. Her experience includes communications and marketing work in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering politics and news in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her work included coverage of local and state budgets, federal financial regulations and health care legislation.

Here’s a breakdown of how we reviewed and rated the best travel insurance companies

The U.S. and Canada share a border, which makes travel from one country to another accessible and relatively straightforward. Traveling to Canadian destinations is incredibly popular amongst U.S. travelers — almost 400,000 people cross the border every day .

Visiting Canada from the U.S. may not require as much preparation as traveling to some other countries, but there are still factors to consider before embarking on your trip. Read on to learn more about Canadian travel requirements, which identification documents you need to enter the country and other information about crossing the border.

Valid Documents for Entry

As with any international travel, Canada has entry requirements that include specific documentation for U.S. citizens. The primary document you’ll need to cross the border is an acceptable form of identification, such as a passport. Residents of certain border-sharing states such as New York can also enter the country with an enhanced driver’s license if crossing by land or water.

If you don’t have a Canadian passport but are a member of the NEXUS program , you can use your membership card as a form of identification and to denote citizenship. If you’re a part of the FAST program, you can use your membership card as identification when arriving by land or by sea.

If you’re a member of either NEXUS or FAST and are a permanent resident of the U.S. (as opposed to a U.S. citizen), you will need a U.S. passport and proof of permanent residence. You can also bring your FAST or NEXUS card as proof of membership.

While some travelers visiting Canada will need a visitor’s visa, U.S. citizens are exempt from this requirement. Instead, you’ll need to provide an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which you can apply for before you travel.

You can find additional information about border documentation on the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) website . Note that Canada may deny you entry if you have a criminal record and require children traveling alone to have a consent letter from a legal guardian.

COVID-19 Travel Restrictions and Protocols

Canada ended its COVID-19-related travel restrictions in October 2022. You no longer need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or test results to enter the country. However, the Canadian government does not advise traveling to the country if you have symptoms of the coronavirus.

Do I Need Medical Insurance in Canada?

You do not need medical insurance to travel from the U.S. to Canada. However, Canadian health insurance does not extend to non-residents. Travelers will have to pay for any medical treatments they receive out-of-pocket, so you may want to obtain medical insurance before visiting in case of an emergency.

If you’re a U.S. citizen, you shouldn’t assume your current health insurance will cover you in Canada. Unless your insurance plan has global coverage, you will need travel health insurance for your vacation to Canada. As a general note, Medicare and Medicaid do not offer coverage abroad.

You can also obtain health coverage by purchasing travel insurance before your trip. Many standard travel policies include emergency medical coverage as part of the plan. While travel medical coverage can offer peace of mind during an emergency, purchasing a policy may also be worth it if you plan to participate in outdoor activities or sports in Canada.

Flights and Air Travel from the U.S. to Canada

You can enter Canada from the U.S. by car, train, boat, bus or plane. There are many airports around Canada, including Toronto Pearson International Airport, Vancouver International Airport, Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport and St. John’s International Airport.

Many airlines offer direct flights to and from major U.S. cities. Airlines tend to offer cheaper flights to Canada in the winter months. Spring and summer are the most popular seasons to visit and, therefore, the most expensive.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for Trip Delays or Cancellations?

Travel insurance covers prepaid, nonrefundable costs if your trip is unexpectedly canceled or delayed . Travel interruptions such as delayed and canceled flights can have a domino effect on the rest of your trip — and possibly mean you have to pay for another flight or unexpected accommodations.

Most standard travel insurance covers trip delays and cancellations, offering reimbursement for expenses such as your plane ticket, hotel or lost baggage . Airlines are also required to reimburse costs under certain circumstances, including additional costs accrued due to interrupted travel .

Learn more about trip protection by reviewing our guide to the best travel insurance companies .

Road Trips and Border Crossing by Car

Taking a road trip from the U.S. to Canada, or simply arriving by car, requires crossing the border at one of the 24 official locations. Americans will need to present a valid U.S. passport or other acceptable form of identification upon arrival to the country. It is also advised to keep your car registration documents available in case requested by the border patrol.

When you arrive at a border crossing point in Canada you may experience delays due to congestion. Long wait times are more common during the peak season for tourism in the country and at busier crossings, such as the Ambassador Bridge that connects Detroit, Mich. and Windsor, Ontario.

To make your crossing as smooth as possible, have all your documents ready, turn off any music and roll down your windows. Be ready to answer questions about your visit to Canada and allow border service officers to open and check the contents of your bags and trunk if requested.

Train and Bus Travel

You can also take public transportation from the U.S. to Canada, with the two main options being a bus or train. You can enter the country on a bus at an official border crossing point or by train using the Amtrak services that run from New York City to Toronto, Portland to Vancouver or New York to Montreal. Train and bus travel to Canada may be more time-consuming but allow you to enjoy the scenery as you cross between the countries.

Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal are some of the most popular destinations in Canada easily reached by bus. Jefferson Lines and Greyhound are the most popular bus services if you want to travel from coastal U.S. cities to Canadian cities. If you’re traveling from states in the central U.S., you’ll likely have to transfer buses.

You will need an official form of identification with you when you enter the country on a bus or train, such as a passport; a NEXUS, FAST or SENTRI card; an enhanced driver’s license or another form of identification. You can book a bus or train tickets online and should receive specific details about the documentation you need to travel.

Should You Get Travel Insurance For Canada?

Whether you enjoy cosmopolitan city breaks or rugged adventures out in nature, Canada offers options for all kinds of travelers. The country’s proximity to the U.S. makes visiting an accessible and straightforward option — you can reach Canada by plane, train, car, bus or even boat.

In order to have the best possible experience on your Canadian vacation, it’s important to understand the country’s travel requirements and prepare all the necessary documentation so you can cross the border without any problems.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling From the U.S. to Canada

Do i need a visa to visit canada from the u.s..

No, U.S. citizens visiting Canada as a tourist do not need a visa to enter the country. According to the Government of Canada’s website , you only need a valid identity document like a passport to visit.

Whether you need a visa depends on your home country and method of travel. If you are not an American citizen but are entering the country from the U.S., you will need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Note that travel document requirements may differ for dual citizens .

Does Canada currently have COVID-19 travel restrictions in place?

Canada ended travel-related COVID-19 measures in October 2022, including health checks, coronavirus tests, proof of vaccination and quarantine rules. However, official advice still recommends you wear a mask while traveling and do not visit if showing COVID-19 symptoms.

You can stay up-to-date on health-related travel advisories by visiting the Public Health Agency of Canada’s website .

What is the best way to travel from the U.S. to Canada?

U.S. residents who are close to the border may choose to visit Canada by car. However, if you’re traveling from a state that is far away from Canada, you can fly to the country or catch a train, bus or ferry.

Can I enter Canada with my birth certificate?

While U.S. citizens used to be able to enter Canada with a birth certificate, the country now requires additional forms of photo identification. The following documents are generally accepted at the Canadian border:

• A U.S. passport
• Passport card

Certain states that share a land border with Canada, such as New York and Washington, may also allow you to use an enhanced driver’s license.

What documentation do Canadian citizens need to enter the U.S.?

As with travel into Canada, the U.S. requires Canadians to show a passport or NEXUS card to enter the country. If you are traveling to a port of entry by car, U.S. Customs and Border Protection may also request to see your vehicle registration or other documentation.

If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team at editors@marketwatchguides. com .

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Hurricane Ernesto Brings Strong Winds and Heavy Rains to Bermuda

The Category 1 storm was moving away from Bermuda on Saturday night after making landfall in the morning. No major damage was reported though tropical storm conditions persisted.

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By Judson Jones and Don Burgess

Judson Jones is a meteorologist and a reporter for The Times. Don Burgess reported from Hamilton, Bermuda.

Hurricane Ernesto made landfall on the western side of Bermuda early Saturday morning as a powerful Category 1 storm, bringing significant rain. The storm was beginning to move away from Bermuda on Saturday night but tropical storm conditions persisted.

Here are key things to know about the storm.

The storm made landfall around 4:30 a.m., according to the U.S. National Weather Service. That location put the territory in the worst area of the hurricane for an extended period of time. Often the “right” side of an eye wall — in this case the eastern edge — delivers the strongest winds and storm surge.

Ernesto is not expected to approach the mainland United States, but forecasters warned it could cause life-threatening surf and rip currents along the East Coast through the weekend. Two men drowned hours apart off the shore of Hilton Head Island in South Carolina on Friday, officials said.

President Biden approved an emergency declaration in Puerto Rico, where hundreds of thousands of customers served by the island’s utility were left without power when Ernesto moved through this week.

Bermuda had received 5.9 inches of rain and could record another three inches on Saturday, the Bermuda Weather Service said. The U.S. Weather Service warned of the potential for “considerable” life-threatening flooding.

Heavy rain and strong winds arrived on the main island Friday afternoon and were expected to last through Saturday night. Large, destructive waves were expected near the coast. The Bermuda government posted footage on Saturday morning of the waves pounding against the rocky shore.

A tropical storm warning was issued for Bermuda on Saturday afternoon as the storm moved north-northeast, forecasters said.

There were no reports of major damage or injuries as of Saturday afternoon, officials said, though many households found themselves in the dark.

BELCO , Bermuda’s sole electricity provider, said power failures affected more than 22,000 customers. The utility said its crews would resume work on restoring power as soon conditions improved.

The storm prompted a near-total shutdown of Bermuda’s transportation services. Ferry services were suspended, and bus services were halted Friday evening. L.F. Wade International Airport closed on Friday night and said it would reopen on Sunday.

Bermuda is well-practiced in dealing with hurricane-force winds (minimum sustained winds of 74 m.p.h.) but before this week, it had only experienced a direct hit nine times since 1851, according to NOAA’s historical hurricane database .

The last storm to make landfall on Bermuda was Paulette on Sept. 14, 2020 , which caused minimal property damage.

The most memorable Bermuda hurricane of the 21st century didn’t make landfall.

Hurricane Fabian instead passed just to the west of the territory on Sept. 5, 2003, killing four sailors and forcing a quarter of Bermuda’s hotels and guesthouses to close for repairs.

Ernesto is not expected to approach the mainland United States, but forecasters warned that swells and rip currents were likely to affect the East Coast through the weekend.

The New York office of the Weather Service warned swimmers to stay out of the water. Beaches in Queens and Brooklyn were closed on Saturday and Sunday to swimming because of dangerous rip currents, the mayor’s office said.

On Friday, two men, ages 65 and 73, drowned hours apart off the shore of Hilton Head Island, S.C., the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office said.

Lifeguards recovered both men, who were believed to have been caught in riptides, though the authorities said they could not confirm whether the deaths were tied to Ernesto.

“We do have rip currents at different times throughout the year,” Master Sgt. Daniel Allen said in an email.

In North Carolina, crashing waves spawned by Ernesto contributed to the collapse of an unoccupied house into the ocean , officials said.

This week, Ernesto brought up to 10 inches of rain to parts of Puerto Rico, the Weather Service said.

The storm knocked out power to more than 600,000 customers. Luma Energy, which distributes electricity in the territory, said on Saturday night that a little under 100,000 customers were still without power.

This hurricane season is expected to be busy.

Forecasters have warned that the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season could be much more active than usual.

Earlier this month, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration continued its forecast of 17 to 24 named storms this year , an “above-normal” number and a prediction in line with more than a dozen forecasts earlier in the year from experts at universities, private companies and government agencies.

Hurricane seasons produce 14 named storms on average from June 1 through Nov. 30.

The seasonal hurricane outlooks were notably aggressive, because forecasters looking at the start of the season saw a combination of circumstances that didn’t exist in records dating back to the mid-1800s: record warm water temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and the potential formation of the weather pattern known as La Niña.

La Niña occurs in the Pacific because of changing ocean temperatures, and it affects weather patterns globally.

When it is strong, it typically provides a calm environment in the Atlantic. This allows storms to develop more easily and to strengthen without interference from wind patterns that might otherwise keep them from organizing.

Reporting was contributed by Patricia Mazzei , Camille Baker , John Yoon , Hank Sanders , Yan Zhuang and Isabella Kwai

Judson Jones is a meteorologist and reporter for The Times who forecasts and covers extreme weather. More about Judson Jones

Hurricane Ernesto moves away from Bermuda to open waters

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Hurricane Ernesto, which made landfall on the tiny British Atlantic territory of Bermuda early Saturday, brought heavy rains and strong winds before moving north-northeast away from the area.

The storm forced residents to stay indoors and more than 26,000 people were without power, officials said. The Category 1 hurricane had maximum sustained winds of 75 mph. As of late Saturday afternoon, it was reported to be about 85 miles northeast of Bermuda and moving north-northeast at 6 mph.

Earlier, the U.S. National Hurricane Center had warned of strong winds, a dangerous storm surge and significant coastal flooding. It said some 6 to 9 inches of rain was expected to fall on Bermuda.

“This rainfall will likely result in considerable life-threatening flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas on the island,” the center said.

Due to the large size of the storm and its slow movement, winds with tropical storm force and gusts up to hurricane force were expected into Saturday night. The tropical storm winds were expected to continue well into Sunday, the Bermuda government said.

The Bermuda Weather Service confirmed the hurricane’s eye had passed between 5:30 and to 8:30 a.m. The eye expanded as it crossed Bermuda.

In the U.S., the National Hurricane Center reported life-threatening surf and rip currents on the East Coast that were expected to reach Canada.

Ernesto should pass near southeastern Newfoundland late Monday, the center said.

Bermuda is an archipelago of 181 tiny islands whose total land mass is roughly the size of Manhattan. According to AccuWeather, it’s uncommon for the eye of a hurricane to make landfall in Bermuda: Before Ernesto, only 11 of 130 tropical storms that came within 100 miles of Bermuda had made landfall there since 1850.

Bermuda is a renowned offshore financial center with sturdy construction, much of it at a relatively high elevation, so storm surge is not as problematic as it is for low-lying islands.

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Ernesto previously battered the northeastern Caribbean, leaving tens of thousands of people without water in Puerto Rico as the National Weather Service issued yet another severe heat advisory, warning of “dangerously hot and humid conditions” in the U.S. territory.

LUMA, Puerto Rico’s power company, said it had restored more than 1.3 million customers’ electricity 72 hours after the storm’s passage. LUMA has not said when it expects power to be fully restored.

“It’s not easy,” said Andrés Cabrera, 60, who lives in the north coastal city of Carolina and has no water or power.

Like many on the island, he could not afford a generator or solar panels. Cabrera said he was relying only “on the wind that comes in from the street” for relief.

Ernesto is the fifth named storm and the third hurricane of this year’s Atlantic hurricane season.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in the U.S. has predicted an above-average Atlantic hurricane season this year due to record-high ocean temperatures. NOAA forecast 17 to 25 named storms, with four to seven major hurricanes.

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