Entering Canada in 2025
Known for its vast natural beauty and multicultural cities, Canada continues to welcome visitors with its streamlined electronic travel authorization (eTA) and visa processes, though entry requirements remain strict. Understanding Canada’s specific entry requirements makes for a smooth experience in this vast country.
Things to Know Before Entering Canada
Preparing for your Canada trip with the right travel documents and awareness of local regulations will make your journey stress-free.
Visa & Entry Requirements
- Depending on nationality, travelers may require a visa, an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), or may be visa-exempt for short visits.
- You may be inadmissible for some reasons, including participation in criminal activity, human rights abuses or organized crime.
- Travelers must have a valid passport with at least one free page, according to Canadian government regulations.
Documents on arrival
- If you have an invitation letter from a person or company in Canada, carry it with you, as border officers may ask to see it.
- For children under 18 years of age traveling with you, you may be required to present a letter of authorization for the minor to travel to Canada, along with supporting documents.
Custom & Restricted Items
- All food, plants, animals, and related goods should be declared. Refrain from bringing diseases and illnesses into Canada.
- All cash or monetary instruments valued at CAD 10,000 or more must be declared upon entry.
- Bringing additional items into Canada, such as prescription medications, health supplies, fireworks, explosives, or antiquities, may require permission or written authorization.
Health & Vaccination Information
- There are no mandatory vaccines for Canada.
- Although Canadian healthcare is excellent, it is costly for visitors; travel insurance is highly recommended.
Canada Highlights
Capital: Ottawa
Multiple (UTC -3.5 to -8)
Currency: Canadian dollar (CAD)
Language: English
Diverse and continental climate
Best Time to Visit:
Popular Tourist Sites:
FAQs about entering Canada
1.
What is an Electronic Travel Authorization?
Visa-exempt foreign nationals entering Canada by air must have an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). A traveler's passport is electronically connected to an eTA. It remains valid until the passport expires or for a maximum of five years, whichever comes first. A new eTA is required if you obtain a new passport.
2.
How long will my Canada eTA take to process?
Normally, the processing time for a Canada eTA will be 72 hours. But if you do not have time, we offer the Rush visa service that helps you get your eTA in just 5 business hours.
3.
How to travel to Canada with the eTA?
You can travel to Canada as soon as your eTA is approved. You should be aware that you do not need to print a copy of the Canada eTA because it is electronically connected to your passport. To enter Canada, visitors must present the same passport they used throughout the application process.
4.
Are vaccinations required for entry into Canada?
No, Canada does not require specific vaccinations for entry. However, travelers are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance, as it can cover high medical costs as well as other unexpected events such as lost luggage, trip delays, or cancellations. Having insurance provides peace of mind and ensures you are protected throughout your journey.
5.
How much time may I spend in Canada with the eTA?
Visitors are typically permitted to remain in Canada for a maximum of 6 months with a valid eTA. While the eTA itself is typically valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires, the actual length of each stay is determined by the border services officer upon entry. The officer will specify the permitted duration by writing or stamping it in your passport.
6.
What currency is used in Canada?
The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Although most places accept credit and debit cards, it's helpful to have small sums of cash on hand for small vendors or in remote locations.
Reliable & Up-to-Date Entry Information
Through meticulous inspection and frequent updates, we ensure that our Canada entrance information remains accurate. All information is sourced directly from government and immigration officials to ensure you receive the most current and trustworthy guidance prior to your trip.
Source:
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA): https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/
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