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Do Children Need a Passport to Visit Canada?

Canada is an extremely family-friendly country, so many families with small children cross the U.S. border to vacation there every year. To make it easier, U.S. and Canadian citizens ages 15 or younger do not need a passport to cross the border at land and sea entry points. However, children will need other documentation. Below is a list of everything your child needs to travel to Canada.

Approved Documents for Children Entering Canada

U.S. citizens under the age of 16 only need a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship if they are driving to Canada or arriving there by sea.

Minors flying to Canada require a passport, passport card, or a NEXUS card . Note that anyone who has a NEXUS card or is considering applying for one can apply for NEXUS cards for his or her own children at no cost. 

Approved Documents for Children Reentering the U.S.

Children flying back to the U.S. will need a passport to reenter. Those traveling by land or sea, however, only need a birth certificate (either the original, a photocopy, or certified copy) or other proof of citizenship.

Approved Documents for Children Traveling in a Group

U.S. and Canadian citizens under the age of 19 traveling between the U.S. and Canada by land or sea with school, religious, cultural, or athletic groups and under adult supervision will also be allowed to travel with only proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate.

The group must also carry a letter on company letterhead that names the organization; supervising adults; and each child, along with their address, phone number, birth date, and parent or legal guardian. The supervising adult must also write and sign a statement certifying that each parent or legal guardian has given them consent.

Other Optional Documents

If the child is accompanied by both parents, no other documentation is required.

However, you must carry a notarized letter of consent from the child's parents if you are traveling to Canada with a child who is not legally yours.

Children traveling to the U.S. with only one parent must have a notarized letter of consent from the other parent. Alternatively, a child could enter the U.S. with a letter signed by both parents stating that the accompanying adult has permission.

Divorced parents who share custody of their children should also carry the legal documents for their kids as well as contact information for the other parent. Other helpful documents include birth certificates, baptismal certificates, and immigration papers, if applicable. Border guards are especially diligent in keeping an eye out for unlawful border crossings involving children due to concerns about human trafficking. They may question you about children who come with you to Canada or question a child who travels alone. 

Visitors of all other nationalities, of all ages, need a valid passport to enter Canada by land, sea, and air. 

How to Get a Rush Passport

If you need a passport to be rushed, there are steps you can take to expedite the passport . Whether it's a life-or-death emergency or not, you can get a passport quickly and you will need to go to a passport office in person rather than mailing in your application documents. It's not necessary to use a passport expediting service, which charges a fee, to rush passport applications unless you're not capable of going to a passport office yourself.

Best Advice

It's important not to wait to get the necessary documents. As security increases, it is helpful to have a passport or passport equivalent, like a NEXUS Card, for your child now. The trend for essential travel documents, even between friendly, neighboring countries like Canada, the U.S., and Mexico, is toward increased security and standardization. A passport—or passport equivalent—is becoming a necessity. Some people have FAST cards or Enhanced Driver's Licenses, but children are not allowed to carry such documents due to their age. However, children can get U.S. Passport Cards, which are another alternative to a traditional passport.

Who to Consult

Consult the U.S. Department of State or Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA). Cruise ships, train lines, and bus companies will all have up-to-date information on passport requirements as well.

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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

Children or Minors traveling to Canada

Apply for canada eta  – electronic travel authorization.

Any visitor arriving in Canada who is under 18 years of age is considered a minor or child under Canadian immigration rules. These individuals are subject to the same immigration rules as any other visitor, regardless of their age.

Traveling to Canada with a minor requires a thorough understanding of the requirements, otherwise the minor and the accompanying adult will likely not be allowed to board a flight to Canada. This guide provides the representative or a parent / guardian with information on completing the eTA application form on behalf of a child traveling to Canada.

Does every member of my family or travel group need an eTA, including babies? Regardless of age, each member of a travel group must apply for an eTA, either on their own or through a parent or guardian applying on their behalf. One eTA cannot be used for multiple applicants. There are no exceptions to these rules, nor for families or babies.

Can I apply for an eTA on behalf of my child? Parents or guardians can apply for an eTA on behalf of their child or the minor they supervise. On the application form, a parent or legal guardian must specify that they are applying on behalf of another, as well as indicate that the applicant is a child. The application will ask the parent or legal guardian to provide information about themselves along with travel, passports and personal information about the child.

Accompanying minors – What documents do I need if my spouse does not travel with myself and the child? Additional documentation is required if a child does not travel with both parents. This is to ensure that both parents allow the trip. The required additional documentation is as follows:

The child’s passport – a valid passport for the child must be available for checking border staff. Birth Certificate – A black and white or color copy of the child’s birth certificate. Non-Accompanying Parent Identification – A black and white or color copy of the non-traveling parent’s signed passport or national identity card, or a copy of both parents’ signed passport or a national identification card if the child is traveling with a person who is not a parent or guardian . Custody Agreement – Separate or divorced parents with shared custody must have a copy of legal custody agreements signed and witnessed by legal representatives. Consent Letter – A recent letter signed by the non-traveling parent (s) acknowledging and approving the travel plans to or through Canada. The letter must have been signed and dated within the last 12 months. This letter should be written in English or French and include contact information for parents such as their home address, email address and telephone number. The letter must be confirmed by a notary or witnessed by an unrelated third party to better ensure its authenticity. If the parents have joint custody, they must both sign the letter of authorization authorizing the trip. If a parent has sole custody following a divorce, the letter must only be signed by that parent and the traveling parent must also provide proof of relevant custody papers. Minors or children traveling with an adult who is not their parent or guardian must have written permission from both children’s parents or guardian (s) that they have been granted the right to travel with the child. Deceased Parents – If one of the child’s parents is deceased, the traveling parent or guardian must bring copies of the death certificate to present to border officers. If both of the child’s parents are deceased, the legal guardian must bring a notarized copy of the guardianship or adoption papers in the case the child has been adopted.

Unaccompanied minors Minors who are either trying to enter Canada alone or with independent parents or legal guardians are usually investigated more carefully, as border officials are trained to look for cases where there may be the potential for missing children or children running away from home and probation to travel to Canada. Therefore, independent parents or guardians traveling with children, or children traveling alone, should be diligent in possessing the required documentation when arriving at the Canadian border.

The necessary documents for unaccompanied minors traveling alone are as follows:

Passport – the child must bring his or her own passport and cannot use a parent or guardian. Birth certificate – the child must bring a copy of their birth certificate. Letter of consent – the letter of consent or permit must be written in English or French and signed as well as witnessed by a third party or notary. The letter must include the name and contact information of both parents, e.g. Their address, phone number and email address. In addition to the parents’ contact information, the letter should also include the name, address, phone and email address of the person (s) hosting or caring for the child while in Canada.

• You arrive by air and are a citizen of an eligible country that is visa exempt – please see list of visa exempt countries below.
• You convince an immigration officer of your ties to your country – employment, family home, etc. that will ensure you return to your country.
• You have sufficient funds for your stay in Canada – this is determined by the length of your trip and the immigration officer

TIPS FOR YOUR TRAVEL

Always apply for the eTA as soon as possible. Normally the authorization is approved within very short time, but in case that your authorization was denied you can expect additionally waiting time for your travel authorization.

eTA Canada  – Valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.  If you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA.

eTA Travel – With a valid eTA, you can travel to Canada as often as you want for short stays (normally for up to six months at a time).

Always double check the passport number you typed into the form. It’s not possible to correct incorrect passport numbers on already approved eTA authorizations.

PASSPORT EXPIRE

Please double check your passport issuance and expire date, as these information are very important to be 100% correct

PASSPORT - NAMES

Provide 100% correctly the names as in your passport. You can find the correct names by looking at the bottom of you passport in the machine readable area.

YOUR HOME ADDRESS

Carefully write you home address as it’s not possible to correct when application is approved.

Be sure to write your correct email address, as the Canadian Authorize send you update to this email.

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Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad – FAQ

The following Questions and Answers supplement the Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad .

For more information about travelling with children, consult the Children and travel page, the publication Travelling With Children , or seek advice from a lawyer. If you need help finding legal services in your province or territory, contact a lawyer referral service .

For additional information about entry and exit requirements for Canadian children travelling alone, with only one parent or with another accompanying person, see our country-specific travel advice and advisories  or contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the destination country.

Note that all references to parents on this page apply also to legal guardians.

Note that Global Affairs Canada cannot provide you with advice about the Consent Letter for Children Travelling Abroad beyond what is offered on this website.

Most frequent questions

• General questions

Legal and custody questions

Documentation questions, other questions.

• What is the purpose of a consent letter? A consent letter demonstrates that children who travel alone, with only one parent/guardian, friends, relatives or a group (e.g. sports, school, musical, religious) have permission to travel abroad from every parent (or guardian) who is not accompanying them on the trip.
• Is a consent letter mandatory? There is no Canadian legal requirement for children to carry a consent letter. However, a consent letter may be requested by immigration authorities when entering or leaving a foreign country, airline agents or Canadian officials when re-entering Canada. Failure to produce a letter upon request may result in delays or refusal to enter or exit a country.
• If the accompanying parent has full/sole custody of the child, is it still advisable to obtain a consent letter signed by a non-accompanying parent who only has access rights? We recommend that even a parent who has full/sole custody obtain a consent letter from another parent who has access rights (also called visitation rights).
• What information should a consent letter contain? There are no official guidelines for the content and format of a consent letter. For your convenience, we offer a sample consent letter  on our website, which may be modified to fit your specific situation. You may also use our  interactive form , which allows you to leave out information that is not available or applicable. Nevertheless, we recommend including as much detail as possible.
• Who should sign the consent letter? The consent letter should be signed by parents who are not accompanying the child on a trip, including:
• One or both parents who are married or in a common-law relationship and live together with the child. Both parents usually have custody rights over the child. In some provinces or territories, other terms (e.g. guardianship rights or parental authority ) may be used.
• One or both parents who are separated, divorced or do not live together. In some situations, parents have “joint custody” or “joint guardianship” of a child, meaning that they make important decisions about the child together. In other situations, one parent has “sole custody” and is responsible for making important decisions for the child, while the other parent has “access rights.” We recommend that the letter be signed by all parents who are not travelling with the child, whether they have custody or access rights.
• One or more individuals (other than parents) or an organization with guardianship rights   and responsibility for the care of the child.
• In Quebec, one or both parents with parental authority over the child. Whether the parents are married, in a civil or de facto union, separated or divorced, they have rights and duties relating to the child, unless a court order states otherwise.

Court orders or agreements sometimes specify who is or is not required to sign a consent letter for children travelling abroad. If in doubt about who should sign the letter, consult with a lawyer.

• Up to what age should Canadian children carry a consent letter when travelling abroad? We recommend that anyone who is under the age of majority (under 18 or 19, depending on the province or territory of residence) carry a consent letter.
• Who can witness the signing of a consent letter? The signing of the letter may be witnessed by anyone who has attained the age of majority (18 or 19, depending on the province or territory of residence). However, we strongly recommend having the letter witnessed by a notary public , as border officials will be less likely to question the authenticity of the letter. Outside of Canada, the signing of a consent letter may be witnessed by anyone who has attained the age of majority, including a consular officer at any Canadian government office abroad ( fees apply ).
• Is it mandatory to have the consent letter witnessed by a notary? There is no Canadian requirement to have the consent letter witnessed by a notary public. However we strongly recommend doing so, as border officials will be less likely to question the authenticity of the letter.
• If the parents are together (either married or in a common-law relationship), but only one parent travels with the child, is a consent letter still recommended? If the child is not accompanied by both parents, we recommend carrying a consent letter signed by the non-accompanying parent, regardless of the parents’ marital status (single, married, common-law, separated, divorced or never married).

General questions

• Is a consent letter still recommended if a child will be accompanied by both parents for part of a trip, but alone or with only one parent for another part of the trip? We recommend that a child who is travelling with only one parent for even a small portion of a trip (e.g. when returning to Canada with only one parent) carry a consent letter signed by the non-accompanying parent. For example, if a child travels to the United States with both parents, but then the mother stays in the United States while the father brings the child back to Canada, the mother may sign a consent letter stating that the child has permission to travel back to Canada with the father.  
• If neither parent is accompanying the child, should they each sign separate consent letters, or can they provide a single letter with both of their signatures? Either separate letters or a single letter may be acceptable. However, if both parents choose to sign separate consent letters, we strongly recommend that both letters be witnessed by a  notary public .
• If children from the same family travel together without one or both parents, should they each carry separate letters or one letter listing all of the children?  Either separate letters or a single letter may be acceptable. However, if the children will not be together for the entire trip (e.g. when returning to Canada), we recommend that they carry separate letters. We also strongly recommend that the letters be witnessed by a  notary public .
• If a child is travelling with several adults, none of whom are the child’s parents (e.g. relatives, group leaders, parents of a friend), should they all be identified as accompanying persons on the consent letter? It is not necessary for the letter to identify all adults as accompanying persons. Instead, we recommend that the letter identify one accompanying person, such as a grandparent or group leader, subject to that individual’s consent.
• Can a parent fax or email a scanned copy of the letter to the accompanying person? Although there is no Canadian legal requirement for children to carry a consent letter, we recommend bringing the original letter, as border officials will be less likely to question its authenticity.
• Is a consent letter recommended even for a day trip? A consent letter is recommended for all cross-border travel, even for a day trip, if the child will be travelling alone, with only one parent, with friends or relatives or with a youth group. The sample consent letter or   interactive form can be used to create a suitable letter.
• If one parent is deceased, what document should a child carry when travelling abroad? A child accompanied by a surviving parent who has full custody may carry a copy of the death certificate of the deceased parent. A child travelling without the surviving parent may carry a consent letter signed by that parent and a copy of the death certificate of the deceased parent.
• If a Canadian child who holds another citizenship travels to the other country of citizenship without one or both parents, will the consent letter offered on this website be accepted by that country’s immigration authorities? The consent letter offered on this website may or may not be considered sufficient by a country’s immigration authorities, as some countries impose their own entry/exit requirements on minor citizens. For example, a child with Costa Rican-Canadian citizenship requires a legally certified consent letter, translated into Spanish and signed by one or both parents, plus a special permit issued by Costa Rican authorities, in order to depart from Costa Rica. Be aware that a foreign country may automatically deem a child born in Canada to be one of its citizens if one or both parents are citizens of that country. As a “deemed citizen,” the child may be subject to the same entry/exit requirements as other citizens of that country. We strongly recommend that parents consult with an embassy or consulate of any country where their child may be a “deemed citizen” and enquire about travel documentation and other entry/exit requirements before travelling to that country with their child. You may find additional information under “Entry/Exit Requirements” in the Travel advice and advisories  for your destination country, our Dual citizenship page and our booklet Dual Citizenship: What You Need to Know .
• What can be done if a parent refuses to sign the consent letter? We recommend trying to find out the reason for the refusal. It may be possible to clear up a misunderstanding or address the other parent’s concerns.   Alternatively, family justice services (e.g. mediation) may help. For a list of services available in each province and territory, see the Department of Justice’s Inventory of Government-based Family Justice Services .  You may also wish to consult with a family lawyer. Note that Global Affairs Canada cannot provide legal advice.
• What can be done if there is a risk that the accompanying parent will not bring the child back to Canada? We recommend consulting with a lawyer without delay and proceeding with caution before signing a consent letter. For more information, see our publication International Child Abduction: A guidebook for left-behind parents  or consult our Child abduction and custody issues page.
• Is a consent letter still recommended from a parent who has been denied access rights? A consent letter is not necessary from a parent who has been denied access rights by a court order. We recommend that the accompanying parent who has full/sole custody of the child carry a copy of the court order when travelling abroad.
• If a court order states that one parent can travel abroad with the child without the consent of the other parent, what documentation is required? We recommend carrying a copy of the court order stating that the other parent’s consent is not needed to travel abroad with the child. Any questions about the wording of the court order should be directed to a family lawyer.
• Is it possible to write a consent letter without specific travel dates so that it may be used for multiple trips (e.g. if the child travels frequently or the non-accompanying parent is not readily available to sign)? We recommend carrying a letter with specific travel dates (as in the sample consent letter  on our website). Doing so may help minimize complications when entering or exiting another country. Consult with a lawyer for information on obtaining a document stating that the child has permission to travel abroad on nonspecific dates.
• If the accompanying person is not the child’s biological parent (e.g. an adoptive or foster parent) but has custody or guardianship rights, is specific documentation needed for the child to travel abroad? We recommend carrying a copy of a court order stating that the accompanying person is the child’s lawful custodian or guardian. If the child is in temporary care, we recommend carrying a consent letter signed by the appropriate child welfare agency representative granting consent for the child to travel with the accompanying person. Consult with a lawyer or the child welfare agency if in doubt about documentation requirements.  
• If the parents are separated or divorced, does the child or accompanying parent need to carry documentation (e.g. a court order or separation agreement) other than a consent letter signed by the non-accompanying parent?  In addition to carrying a consent letter, we recommend checking with an embassy or consulate of the destination country in case other documents are required.
• If the other parent is not in the picture and obtaining a consent letter is impossible, what other documents can be carried? If there is a court order stating that the whereabouts of the other parent are unknown and granting the accompanying parent full/sole custody, we recommend carrying a copy of that document. If a court order has not been issued, we recommend consulting with a lawyer to consider taking legal action. If the other parent was granted access rights by a previous court order, but has not exercised those rights in a long time and is now unreachable, we recommend consulting with a lawyer to consider obtaining an up-to-date court order. In either case, we recommend carrying a copy of the court order. If in doubt, be sure to consult with a lawyer, as each situation is unique.
• What documents should a child carry when travelling abroad, apart from a Canadian passport and consent letter (if applicable)?   Since parents are not identified on a child’s passport, we recommend that the child carry a copy of the long-form (or parental information) birth certificate, which clearly indicates the parents’ names. The long-form birth certificate is not a mandatory travel document, but it may help to establish the relationship between the child and the accompanying parent and/or the parent signing the consent letter. For more information on the long-form birth certificate, contact the government of the province or territory where the child was born. Check with the destination country’s embassy or consulate in Canada regarding additional documentation that may be required, including divorce papers, custody court orders or a death certificate (if one parent is deceased).
• If the non-accompanying parent is not identified on the child’s long-form birth certificate and does not have access or custody rights, is there any reason for that parent to sign a consent letter? A consent letter is not needed in this case. However, we recommend carrying a copy of the child’s long-form (or parental information) birth certificate when travelling abroad with the custodial parent. If the child travels alone, we recommend carrying a copy of the long-form birth certificate as well as a consent letter signed by the custodial parent.
• If the child is a naturalized Canadian or permanent resident and immigrated to Canada with only one parent, does the parent who lives abroad need to sign a consent letter? We recommend carrying a consent letter signed by the parent who lives abroad. The signing of the consent letter may be witnessed by anyone who has attained the age of majority (18 or 19, depending on the province or territory of residence), including a consular officer at any Canadian government office abroad ( fees apply ). If it is impossible to obtain a consent letter from the parent who lives abroad, we recommend carrying a copy of a court order granting full custody to the parent in Canada and stating that the other parent has no rights over the child. If a court order has not been issued, we recommend consulting with a lawyer, as each situation is unique.
• Is there any reason to be concerned if the information requested in the sample consent letter or interactive form is not available or applicable (e.g. passport number, destination address)? The content and format of the child consent letter may be modified to meet your needs. The sample consent letter and interactive form on our website allow you to include information that fits your specific situation or to leave out information that is not available or applicable. However, we recommend including as much detail as possible.

We have revised our consent letter resources to serve you better. We welcome your feedback on the new versions at [email protected] . Please note that this address is to receive your comments and suggestions only.

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Travel Advisory July 17, 2023

Canada - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Canada.

Read the Country Information page for additional information on travel to Canada.

If you decide to travel to Canada: 

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Canada.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.  Exercise normal precautions in Canada.

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Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Ottawa

490 Sussex Drive Ottawa, Ontario K1N 1G8 Canada Telephone:  +1 (613) 688-5335 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (613) 238-5335 Fax:  +1 (613) 688-3082 Email:   [email protected]

The Ottawa consular district includes the counties of Kingston, Lanark, Leeds, Prescott, Refrew, Russell, and Stormont in Eastern Ontario, and those parts of the Québec regions of Outaouais and Abitibi-Témiscamingue near Ottawa.

U.S. Consulate General Montreal

1134 Rue Ste- Catherine West Montréal, Quebec H3B 1H4 Canada Telephone:  +1 (514) 398-9695 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (416) 645-9124 Fax:  +1 (514) 398-9748 Email:  [email protected]

The Montreal consular district includes Greater Montreal and the regions of Southern Quebec Province (Laurentides, Lanaudiere, Laval, Montreal, Montregie, Estrie, and the southern parts of Centre-du-Quebec), including Joliete, Drummondville, and Sherbrooke.

U.S. Consulate General Toronto

360 University Ave Toronto, Ontario M5G 1S4 Canada Telephone:  +1 (416) 595-1700 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (416) 201-4056 Fax:  +1 (416) 595-5466 Email:  [email protected]

The consular district includes the province of Ontario except for the counties of Kingston, Lanark, Leeds, Prescott, Refrew, Russell, and Stormont, which are served by the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa.

U.S. Consulate General Vancouver

1075 West Pender Street Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 2M6 Canada Telephone:  +1 (604) 685-4311 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (604) 685-4311 Fax:  +1 (604) 685-7175 Email:  [email protected]

The consular district includes British Columbia and the Yukon Territory.

U.S. Consulate General Halifax

Purdy's Wharf Tower II 1969 Upper Water Street, Suite 904 Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3R7 Canada Telephone:  +1 (902) 429-2480 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (902) 429-2480, Press 1 Email:  [email protected]

The Halifax consular district includes New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and the French islands of Saint Pierre and Miquelon.

U.S. Consulate Winnipeg

201 Portage Avenue, Suite 860 Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 3K6 Canada Telephone:  +1 (204) 940-1800 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (403) 266-8962 and press "0" for assistance (Consulate General Calgary) Fax:  +1 (204) 940-1809

The Consulate in Winnipeg provides only emergency services for U.S. citizens. Routine services such as visas, passports and notarials are handled at other U.S. Consulates General, primarily Calgary.

U.S. Consulate General Quebec  2, rue de la Terrasse Dufferin (Vieux Quebec, behind Chateau Frontenac) Quebec, Quebec G1R 4T9 Canada Telephone:  +1 (418) 692-2095 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (418) 692-2096 Fax:  +1 (418) 692-4640 Email:   [email protected]

The consular district includes Quebec City and those regions of Quebec Province to the North and East of the Montreal and Ottawa Districts (indicated above) – to include the area around Saguenay/Lac Saint-Jean, Rimouski and the Gaspé Peninsula – as well as the Territory of Nunavut.

U.S. Consulate General Calgary  615 Macleod Trail S.E., 10th Floor Calgary, Alberta T2G 4T8 Canada Telephone:  +1 (403) 266-8962 Fax:  +1 (403) 264-6630 Email:   [email protected] The consular district includes Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories, excluding Nunavut.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

For tourist visits to Canada of less than 180 days, U.S. citizens do not need visas. Other types of travel generally require visas. Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for current information.

If you have a criminal record, you may be unable to enter Canada. To determine whether you are criminally inadmissible and get information about how to overcome this finding, refer to the  IRCC website .  Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officials determine if you can enter Canada in accordance with Canadian law.  

Travel Programs:  Both the U.S. and Canadian governments urge frequent travelers to join the  NEXUS trusted traveler program .

Entry into Canada:  Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry proof of citizenship and identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens.

Children under 16 only need proof of U.S. citizenship.

Entry into the United States:  When traveling by air from Canada, U.S. citizens must present a U.S. passport book or other approved identification document. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website provides a full list of allowable documents.

Travel with Minors:  If you plan to travel to Canada with a minor for whom you do not have full legal custody, CBSA may require a letter of authorization from the minor’s parents or legal guardian(s). Please refer to the  CBSA website  for more details.

Private Boaters Entering Canada:  Canadian law requires all foreign private boaters, including recreational vessels, to present themselves upon their arrival in Canada to the CBSA. See the  CBSA website  for relevant reporting requirements.

Private Boaters Exiting Canada: Boaters may report their arrival to the United States or apply for a registered boater program using the CBP Reporting Offsite Arrival – Mobile (CBP ROAM) app. Please visit the  CBP ROAM webpage for more information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to Canada. For information on restrictions for HIV positive foreign residents of Canada visit the IRCC website .

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

911 is the emergency telephone number in Canada.

Crime: Although Canada generally has a lower crime rate than the United States, violent crimes occur throughout the country, especially in urban areas. Criminals may target parked cars, especially in large cities and popular tourist destination, for opportunistic smash-and-grab thefts. Do not leave unattended possessions in a vehicle, even in the trunk. Some jurisdictions such as Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver may fine you for leaving your car doors unlocked or for leaving valuables in view. Pickpockets may target you, especially in popular tourist areas. Exercise caution. Safeguard yourself and your property.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

While there is a very small likelihood of violence at a political gathering in Canada, we strongly encourage U.S. citizens to avoid all protests and demonstrations and maintain a high level of vigilance and practice good situational awareness when traveling abroad.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.  Report crimes to the local police at 911 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +1(613) 688-5335. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

•    Help you find appropriate medical care

•    Assist you in reporting a crime to the police

•    Contact relatives or friends with your written consent

•    Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion

•    Provide a list of local attorneys

•    Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.

•    Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution

•    Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home

•    Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulates for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. 

Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. If you are considering travel outside of populated areas, particularly in the northern Arctic territories, you need to know that search and rescue capabilities are limited because of extreme isolation and the harsh climate. You must be prepared for significant delays in receiving emergency assistance in these areas and plan accordingly.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .  

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Controlled Substances:  Canadian law prohibits possession and trafficking of controlled substances and narcotics, including some substances that may be legal to possess under the law of certain U.S. states. Canada has legalized the personal consumption of recreational cannabis, but Canadian law prohibits taking cannabis across Canada’s national borders . Drug smugglers risk substantial fines, a permanent bar from Canada, and imprisonment.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad  

Firearms : Canada controls firearms more strictly than the United States. Violation of firearms restrictions may result in prosecution and imprisonment.

Visitors bringing any firearms or ammunition into Canada must declare the firearms in writing using a Non-Resident Firearm Declaration form. If you plan to borrow and use a firearm in Canada, you must obtain a Temporary Firearms Borrowing License in advance. You must present these forms in triplicate and sign them in front of a CBSA officer at the border. (It is not possible to make photocopies at the border). Full details and downloadable forms are available at the Canadian Firearms Program website .

Canadian law requires officials to confiscate firearms, ammunition, and other weapons from persons crossing the border who do not declare having the items in their possession. Officials will not return confiscated firearms, ammunition, and weapons and possession of any of these items may result in your arrest and imprisonment. You should inspect all belongings thoroughly before traveling to Canada to avoid the accidentally importing firearms, ammunition, or other weapons.

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Canada. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Pornography: Canada has strict laws concerning child pornography, and in recent years there has been an increase in random checks of electronic media of travelers entering Canada.

Canadian officials may search your computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices without a warrant at the border and illegal content can result in the seizure of the device as well as detention, arrest, and prosecution of the bearer.

Tax Issues:  For information on U.S. Federal tax issues, please refer to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website for international taxpayers .

• Refer to this link for reporting requirements regarding Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) .
• Refer to this link for information on the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) .
• Refer to this link for information about the Voluntary Disclosure Practice .

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Canada prohibitsdiscrimination against persons with physical or mental disabilities and the law is enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. For more information, visit the Accessibility Standards Canada website .

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Canada, dial 911 . Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Health Canada to ensure the medication is legal in Canada.

Healthcare in Canada : The level of public health and sanitation in Canada is high. Adequate health facilities are available throughout Canada.  Canada’s medical care is of a high standard but is government controlled. Access to ongoing medical care is difficult for temporary visitors who are not members of a Canadian province’s government-run health care plan. Many physicians will not take new patients. Specialist care is only by referral and may take months to obtain. Although trauma-care is on par with that in the United States, emergency room waits for non-life threatening problems can be very long. Some health care professionals in the Quebec may only speak French.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all CDC-recommended vaccinations .

Further health information:

World Health Organization U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Air Quality:  Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery: We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.

Pharmaceuticals:  U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:  If you are considering traveling to Canada to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  As in the United States, all emergency assistance in Canada can be reached by dialing 911.

For detailed information on road conditions throughout Canada, as well as links to provincial government websites, please see the Transport Canada website or the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) website. The CAA honors American Automobile Association memberships. Automobile warranties of vehicles purchased in the United States may not be valid in Canada.

Winter travel can be dangerous due to heavy snowfalls and hazardous icy conditions. Some provinces require snow tires. CAA has tips for winter driving . Both winter conditions and wildfires may prompt the sudden closure of highways. Provincial ministries of transport typically post closures and other alerts about road conditions on their websites.

Traffic Laws:  Driving in Canada is similar to driving in many parts of the United States. Distances and speeds, however, are posted in kilometers per hour and some signs, particularly in Québec, may only be in French. U.S. driver’s licenses are valid for visitors in Canada. Proof of auto insurance is required. U.S. auto insurance is accepted  for tourists in Canada. For specific information concerning Canadian driving permits, mandatory insurance, and entry regulations, please contact the Canadian National Tourist Organization .

Some provinces require drivers to keep their vehicles’ headlights on during the day and some have banned driving while using a hand-held cell phone. Motorcycles cannot share a lane, and safety helmets for motorcycle riders and passengers are mandatory.

It is illegal to take automobile radar detectors into Québec, Ontario, Manitoba, the Yukon, or the Northwest Territories, regardless of whether they are used. Police may confiscate radar detectors and impose substantial fines.

Drivers approaching border crossings into the United States may encounter traffic backups. Drivers should be alert, as lane restrictions at border approaches exist for drivers in NEXUS and FAST expedited inspection programs.

Public Transportation: Public transportation options vary across Canada, but all cities and most major towns have a public transit system .

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Canada’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Canada’s air carrier operations.  Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Canada should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Canada .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

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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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Glossary term

• Admissibility

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Who can apply

On this page

• Eligible countries of citizenship

Requirements for your study program

Bringing your family members with you to canada, eligibility requirements.

To be eligible for the Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP), you must meet the following criteria:

• be a citizen of an eligible country
• Your study program must meet the requirements of the pilot .
• your tuition fees
• living expenses for yourself and any family members who come with you to Canada
• live outside of Canada when you apply
• get a  medical exam (if you need one)
• get a  police certificate (if you need one)
• be able to prove that your French speaking, listening, reading and writing skills are at a level 5 or higher in the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) scale

Depending on where you’re applying from, you may also need to provide other documents.

We may ask you to give additional documents to support your application. In this case, your application may take longer to process.

If you’re not eligible for the FMSCP

If you don’t meet the eligibility requirements, you may still be eligible for a study permit through the  regular study permit application process . Check the documents you need to apply for a regular study permit.

Eligible countries of citizenship to apply for the FMCSP

To be eligible, you must be a citizen of one of the following countries that are members of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie in Africa, the Middle East and the Americas.

Eligible countries

• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Côte d'Ivoire
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Republic of the Congo
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Saint Lucia
• São Tomé and Principe

You must have a letter of acceptance from a participating DLI that says you’re applying under the FMCSP. Your study program must meet the following criteria:

• be at the post-secondary level
• be full-time
• be 2 years of study or more
• lead to a degree or diploma
• have French as the primary language of instruction (over 50% of the classes are taught in French)

You may be able to bring your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children with you to Canada. They may be eligible for

• a  visitor visa
• a  study permit
• an  open work permit

They must submit their applications through the IRCC Secure account, even if they apply at a different time.

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