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Consulate of canada to the united kingdom, in edinburgh.

We provide services to Canadians visiting and living in the United Kingdom.

Services and information

Adoption and surrogacy.

Process to adopt a child internationally and bring them back to Canada.

Birth abroad

Register a child's birth abroad.

Child abduction

Steps to take if your child is abducted in Canada or abroad.

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Steps to become a Canadian citizen. Get proof of citizenship.

Criminal record checks

How to get a criminal record check abroad, if required.

Death abroad

Steps to follow when a loved one dies abroad.

Divorce abroad

Information on divorce procedures while abroad.

Legal matters

Steps to take should you need legal help abroad.

Marriage abroad

Requirements, documents and processes for getting married abroad.

Notarial services

Have your documents certified and authenticated.

Passport services

Apply for a passport and what to do if your passport is lost, stolen or damaged.

Pensions and retirement

Information on pensions and retiring outside of Canada.

Same-sex marriage abroad

Country specific information on same-sex marriage.

Studying abroad

Information on education or research opportunities in foreign countries.

Visa and immigration services

Apply to immigrate. Get a visa to study, work or visit Canada.

Voting abroad

Voting process for Canadians who live abroad.

Office information

Telephone:  +44 (0) 3305-001224

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Email:   [email protected]

Website: IRCC web form

Our representative

Mary Duncan Honorary Consul of Canada to the United Kingdom

• High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom

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The UK ETA for Canadian Citizens: Everything You Need to Know

Canadian citizens traveling to the United Kingdom (UK) will be required to obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in 2024.

ETA is a new digital travel permit that is mandatory for citizens of countries that can visit England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland without a visa for short trips. This includes Canadian citizens.

It will simplify travel to the UK for visiting family and friends of over 75,000 Canadians residing in the UK. The ETA also benefits nearly 900,000 Canadians who visit the UK for leisure, business, or study.

This guide offers all the information on the UK ETA for Canadian citizens, including eligibility, requirements, the application process, and travel implications.

Why is the UK ETA being introduced for Canadian citizens?

The UK ETA aims to improve the security of the UK border and allow the government more control and oversight over individuals entering the country.

The system seeks to help prevent illegal immigration, thwart organized crime syndicates, and identify potential threats to national security before they even arrive on UK soil.

The ETA is also designed to improve border control and streamline the immigration process for pre-verified, low-risk travelers.

Benefits of the UK ETA for Canadian Citizens

The ETA is an electronic document that grants pre-screened non-visa nationals permission to travel to the UK. It is not a visa, so applicants can skip the complex and lengthy acquisition process.

For Canadian citizens, the UK ETA presents benefits that include the following:

Quick and easy process

Applying for a UK ETA is entirely online and paperless. Canadian applicants can complete the application in less than 20 minutes. They also do not need to visit consulates or visa offices for an in-person interview or to submit documents.

It generally takes three days to process an ETA application. Travelers will receive the decision, whether approved or rejected, via the email address they provided.

If granted, the ETA will be linked to the passport they used to apply, so there is no need to print it out.

Affordable fee

A UK ETA application costs £10 each. The price is comparable to similar digital travel permits imposed by other countries.

For instance, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) of the United States (US) costs US$21 (£17).

Australia’s electronic travel authorization (ETA) costs AU$20 (£10), while Canada’s electronic travel authorization (eTA) costs CA$7 (£4).

Once operational, the European Union’s upcoming European Travel Information Authorization System (ETIAS) will cost €7 (£6).

Long validity period

Most digital travel permits are valid for a year to five years or when the passport it is linked to expires.

The UK ETA will be valid for multiple short visits over two years. Travelers only need to apply for an ETA every two years or when their passport expires, whichever comes sooner, not every time they visit the UK.

How the UK ETA system will affect Canadian travelers

Currently, Canadians do not need an ETA to travel to the UK.

However, once the system opens for Canadian citizens in 2024, they must apply and obtain an approved UK ETA before traveling to the UK.

It is required regardless of the mode of transport used, whether arriving on a flight, on a ship (e.g., as part of a cruise), or over land, such as through the rail tunnel connecting Britain and France.

A UK ETA is valid for the following travel purposes:

• Short-term stay for less than six months (180 days) for tourism, short-course study, visiting friends and family, and permitted business activities and medical treatments.
• Short-term stay for up to three months (90 days) on the Creative Worker visa concession
• Transiting through the UK (i.e., changing planes), whether or not passing through UK border control

ETA Eligibility Guidelines for Canadian Citizens

To be eligible for an ETA, Canadians must meet the following conditions:

• Be a national of a country that has a visa-waiver status with the UK. Canada is included in the list of countries whose citizens need an ETA to travel to the UK.
• Have a biometric passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date from the UK.
• No intent to stay, work, or study in the UK for longer than six months.
• No criminal record and past immigration breaches in the UK or elsewhere.

All travelers, including children and babies , will need an ETA before traveling to the UK. Parents and guardians can apply for an ETA on their behalf.

Individuals with a history of immigration breaches, criminal convictions, or incarcerations of more than 12 months in the UK or elsewhere may be denied an ETA. These travelers should consider getting a UK visa instead.

Canadian citizens planning to stay in the UK for more than six months or to work will still need an appropriate UK visa. The new ETA system does not affect these travelers.

UK ETA Application Requirements for Canadian Citizens

Canadian citizens eligible for a UK ETA must prepare the following application requirements:

• A valid biometric passport issued by Canada, whose citizens do not need a visa to travel to the UK for short trips.
• A recent digital passport photo
• A valid email address
• A working electronic payment method, such as credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay

How to Apply for a UK ETA

Canadian citizens can apply for a UK ETA through the official UK government website or app.

The UK ETA application process is entirely online and paperless, so visiting consulates or visa offices is unnecessary. It only takes a few minutes to complete once all the necessary documents and information are ready.

Below is a step-by-step guide on how Canadians can apply for an ETA.

1. Upload or take a photo of the passport you will use to travel to the UK.

Ensure you include the picture and the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom.

2. Upload a recent passport photo or take a picture using your device’s camera.

Images should be saved as a jpeg file or with the file extension .jpg. Children aged nine and under will not need to upload a passport photo.

3. Fill in all the required information.

These include personal information (i.e., name, birth date), passport details, employment details, home address, and contact information.

4. Answer questions on security and eligibility. 

Like any other UK visitor, Canadian ETA applicants must truthfully disclose criminal records, past immigration offenses, and any associations with or membership in any unlawful or illegal groups or organizations.

5. Pay for the UK ETA application online.

A UK ETA application costs £10 each. To submit the application, you must pay the fee online using a credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

After completing the UK ETA online application, travelers will receive a confirmation through the email they provided.

Tips on for Applying for a UK ETA

Applying for an ETA is simple, but there is still room for errors. To avoid common mistakes, follow these guidelines for a swift and efficient UK ETA online application.

• Provide or capture clear, high-quality photos of your passport and yourself. Ensure the images comply with passport photo specifications and are in full color without filters or effects.
• Make sure you provide the correct data and are as accurate as possible. Giving false or incorrect information and even withholding information could result in delays or your application being refused.
• Check beforehand if your online payment method works and if you have enough funds to pay for the application online.
• Be sure to review and double-check the data you provided in your ETA application before you submit.

After submitting the UK ETA application, travelers can no longer amend or withdraw it. Should Canadian travelers need to correct simple mistakes in their ETA application , they can quickly do this by re-submitting the application and paying the fee again.

Processing and Receiving the ETA for Canadian Nationals

Upon receipt of a UK ETA online application, the system will cross-verify the details submitted against several security databases in the UK and worldwide to check if the applicant is qualified for an ETA.

It typically takes three days (72 hours) for applicants to receive a decision on their ETA application via the email address provided.

Many travelers receive a decision within hours of submitting their application. Still, some applications may take more than three days to receive a decision.

Canadian citizens are recommended to apply for a UK ETA before booking their travel to the UK to prevent delays or other issues.

If an ETA application is denied, the applicant can choose to complete a new ETA application form and pay the fee again. However, this is only recommended if they can establish the reason for the initial rejection and address it before doing so.

Being denied an ETA does not mean the applicant is banned from traveling to the UK. The alternative to a UK ETA is an appropriate UK visa: a Standard Visitor visa, Temporary Work visa, or Transit visa.

However, getting a visa is a more complicated and longer procedure, so adjust travel plans accordingly.

Traveling with a UK ETA

A UK ETA is digitally linked to an individual’s passport. It is valid for two years, allowing multiple short visits lasting up to six months per visit.

Canadian travelers must apply for a new ETA after two years or when their passport expires, whichever comes first, to continue being allowed to travel to the UK.

Departure to the UK

Since it is an electronic document, Canadian travelers don’t need to bring a physical copy of their ETA. 

Still, they can print it and carry the paper copy with them or be prepared to show the ETA decision email in their inbox in case of unprecedented circumstances.

For travelers with multiple passports, make sure to travel to the UK with the passport used in the application.

Before boarding a plane, ship, or train, carriers will check if travelers have the appropriate permission-to-travel document by scanning their passports. 

Carriers will only allow boarding to Canadian travelers who can present a valid UK ETA or visa.

Those still waiting on the decision on their ETA applications will also not be permitted to board.

Arriving in the UK

An ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK. Upon arrival, Canadian citizens with an approved UK ETA must still submit their identity documents to the UK Border Force or go through an electronic passport gate (eGate), if available.

Be prepared to provide proof of onward travel upon request. This typically means presenting a ticket to leave the UK within six months of arrival.

If asked, Canadian travelers must also show evidence that they have enough funds to support themselves during their entire stay in the UK and their journey home.

Travelers with a valid ETA may still be refused entry into the UK if they fail a border check or meet other entry conditions.

Once past border security, Canadian citizens with an approved ETA can freely travel between the UK’s four constituent countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Canadian visitors can use all modes of transportation within the UK, such as trains, ferries, and local flights. Before boarding a ferry or an internal flight within the UK, they only need to present an ID, usually a passport or driving license.

Important Note: A UK ETA is not valid in Ireland or other European countries.

A UK ETA does not allow entry to the Republic of Ireland and other European countries. The UK is not a member of the European Union or the Schengen Common Travel Zone.

Canadians visiting Ireland or other European countries must inquire about the country’s entry requirements before booking their travel.

Travelers can check the UK ETA FAQ page for more information.

Privacy Overview

9 countries Canadian passport holders can visit visa-free for up to a year

Owning a Canadian passport comes with a ton of benefits, like the ability to travel to many countries visa-free.

While you may be aware of countries you can travel to without a visa for short visits , your Canadian passport also gives you the ability to travel to some countries for up to 365 days, no visa required.

If you want to spend more than just 90 days on lush tropical islands, exploring popular tourist destinations or getting to know the culture of hidden-gem countries, you can easily do just that as a Canadian passport holder .

From European hot spots to Caribbean jewels, here are nine countries Canadians can visit for up to a year without a visa.

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How Long You Can Stay: 120 days

Details: Canadian passport holders can visit Fiiji for stays of up to four months, or 120 days, without needing to obtain a visa — instead, Canadians are issued a visitor's permit and border officials will stamp your passport on arrival.

According to the Canadian government, travellers must ensure that their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Fiji. They will also need a return or onward ticket in order to enter the country.

Fiji Immigration website

How Long You Can Stay: 180 days

Details: Want to enjoy island life for a little bit longer? Canadians can stay in Barbados for up to six months, or 180 days, without needing a visa.

While a visa isn't required, travellers will need to have a Canadian passport that is valid for the duration of their stay, as well as a return or onward ticket.

They may also be required to provide proof that they have a place to stay in Barbados, as well as proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the trip.

According to the Government of Canada , travellers must also complete an arrival form upon their arrival at the immigration office.

The government notes that while Canadians are able to visit Barbados for up to six months, it is Barbadian immigration officers who determine the length of your stay, and who will also determine if a work permit is required for business travellers.

Visit Barbados website

United States

Details: Canadian visitors can usually stay in the United States for six months without a visa, according to the Government of Canada .

Canadian travellers are usually granted a stay in the country for up to 180 days at the time of entry.

While they may not need a visa, all Canadians entering the U.S. by air require a passport, and Canadians entering the U.S. by land or sea must have a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)-compliant travel document, such as a valid passport, Enhanced Driver’s License, or Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST).

At the border, customs officials may also ask travellers to provide their address while in the U.S., as well as evidence of residential, employment or educational ties to Canada, proof that the trip is for a legitimate purpose and is of a reasonable length, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the traveller's stay.

While most Canadians won't need a visa to enter the U.S., there are some exceptions. For example, Canadian permanent residents may need a non-immigrant visa to enter the United States.

A list of Canadians requiring a visa to enter the U.S. can be found on the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada website.

According to the Government of Canada, travellers who wish to stay longer than six months in the U.S. must apply for an extension at the nearest U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office once in the country and before the expiry of their initial stay.

U.S. Embassy website

South Korea

Details: Canadian passport holders can visit South Korea without a visa for stays of up to six months, or 180 days.

Previously, Canadians entering Korea visa-free needed to complete a K-ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) prior to their departure.

According to the Government of Canada, Canadians are currently exempt from the K-ETA requirement to visit South Korea until December 31, 2024.

Canadians are also required to have a passport that is valid beyond the date of their expected departure from South Korea.

Find out more

Details: Canadian tourists can visit the United Kingdom for a period of up to six months, or 180 days, without a visa required.

They must, however, meet the Standard Visitor eligibility requirements, including that you have a passport or travel document to enter the U.K. and are able to show that you'll leave the U.K. at the end of your visit, you're able to support yourself and your dependants during your trip, you're able to pay for your return or onward journey, and that you'll not live in the U.K. for extended periods through frequent or successive visits, or make the UK your main home.

Canadians can visit the U.K. as a Standard Visitor for the purposes of tourism, like a holiday or vacation, to see family or friends or to volunteer for up to 30 days with a registered charity, among other activities.

According to the U.K. government, you may be asked questions at the U.K. border about your eligibility and the activities you plan to do.

Your Canadian passport must be valid for at least the expected duration of your stay in the United Kingdom. This requirement may also apply when travelling to Northern Ireland from other parts of the U.K. and vice versa, according to the Canadian government .

You can check if you'll be required to obtain a visa to enter the U.K. by filling out the form on the government's website.

U.K. government website

Details: Canadian passport holders can stay in Costa Rica for up to 180 days without needing a visa.

According to the Government of Canada , a Costa Rican immigration officer will determine the permitted length of your stay when you enter the country. As a tourist, you may be granted a stay of up to 180 days.

However, if you want to stay for more than 180 days, you must obtain a residency status from the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería.

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay, and customs officials will ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Details: Canadian travellers can visit the Caribbean country of Dominica for up to six months, or 180 days, without a visa.

Called the "Caribbean's best-kept secret," Dominica offers tons of natural beauty, as well as friendly people and a laid-back vibe.

According to the Government of Canada, travellers must be able to present proof of onward travel or a return ticket to enter the country.

They must also have sufficient funds to sustain themselves for the length of their stay, and be able to provide a local address, according to the Government of Dominica .

Their passport must also be valid for the expected duration of their stay in Dominica.

Government of Dominica website

How Long You Can Stay: 240 days

Details: Canadian passport holders can stay in the Bahamas for up to 240 days, or eight months, without a visa, provided that they have certain travel documents.

According to the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Canadian citizens must have a Canadian passport with an expiry date that is not less than three months after leaving the Bahamas (for direct travel) and not less than six months if transiting through other countries, such as the U.S.

They must also possess a return ticket.

The rules are a bit different for permanent residents of Canada, who may stay in the Bahamas for 30 days without a visa.

For stays of longer than eight months, Canadian passport holders are required to have a visa.

While the rules apply to tourist stays, business and student travel to the Bahamas also does not require a visa, according to the Government of Canada .

For those looking to stay longer in the island country, the Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) program allows students and professionals to live in the Bahamas for up to a year while they work or study remotely.

Bahamas tourism website

How Long You Can Stay: 365 days

Details: Canadian passport holders can visit the country of Georgia for a whole year, visa-free.

Located in the Caucus region where Europe meets Asia, Georgia is a hidden gem destination that recently went from backpacker secret to mainstream vacation spot.

Its ich culture and diverse landscapes make it the perfect destination for anyone who loves history and nature.

Canadians travelling to Georgia have plenty of time to enjoy the country, with the ability to stay for 365 days without a visa.

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the country.

According to the State Commission on Migration Issues of Georgia, foreigners holding a Canadian visa and/or residence permit may enter and stay in Georgia without a visa for 90 days in any 180-day period.

Georgia State Commission website

Happy travels!

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

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Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada

Most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada - not both. Some people may only need their valid passport. Answer a few questions to see what's right for you.

See all entry requirements by country/territory

You can find the country code on your passport. Be careful when you select your country. Some countries have multiple options and codes are quite similar.

Answer yes if you’re a citizen of Canada and another country.

Look on the front cover of your passport for the symbol of a rectangle with a circle in the middle. If you see this symbol, you have an electronic passport.

Answer: You need a visitor visa

For visits of up to 6 months for most purposes. Cost: CAN $100

Get details about visitor visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

For visits of up to 6 months or to transit via a Canadian airport. Cost: CAN $7

Get details about eTA Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid Canadian passport

You need a  valid Canadian passport  to travel to Canada by air (board your flight).

Exception: If you’re an American-Canadian dual citizen with a valid U.S. passport, you don’t need a Canadian passport to fly to Canada. However, you still need to  carry proper identification Opens in a new tab  and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada Opens in a new tab .

Get details about travelling as a dual Canadian citizen Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid passport or travel document to travel to Canada by car, train, bus or boat

If you decide to fly to a Canadian airport instead, you'll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Learn about documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need official proof of status in the U.S.

Lawful permanent residents of the U.S. must present these documents for all methods of travel to Canada:

• a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document ) and
• a valid green card (or equivalent valid proof of status in the United States)

Answer: You need a transit visa 

To connect between 2 international flights, in less than 48 hours. Cost: Free

Note: If you have more than 48 hours between international flights OR if you decide to visit Canada, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about transit visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You can apply for a parent and grandparent super visa to visit for more than 6 months

• The super visa is for visits of 5 years at a time .
• a letter from your child or grandchild with a promise to financially support you for the duration of your visit in Canada.
• More information on approved insurance providers outside of Canada will be available in the coming months.
• be valid for at least 1 year from the date of entry to Canada
• provide at least $100,000 in emergency coverage.
• You must apply for a super visa from outside Canada.
• Cost: CAN $100

Note : If you don't meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about super visa Opens in a new tab

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA). An eTA allows for visits of up to 6 months.

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with a valid identity document. Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with

• a valid passport from your country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document Opens in a new tab ) and
• official proof of lawful permanent resident status in the U.S., such as a green card

Answer: You need a valid identity document

Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

Learn about the documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa

• You don’t need to submit a separate application for a visitor visa.

When you travel to Canada, bring your

• letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved, if you received one
• valid passport that has your visitor visa stuck to one of its pages

Learn about studying in Canada Opens in a new tab

Answer: You should already have a valid visitor visa

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first study or work permit.

If you leave and return to Canada,  you must travel with:

• your valid study or work permit
• If you don’t have a valid visa when you check-in for a flight, it may result in travel delays (or a missed flight).
• your valid passport

Exception : If you return directly from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

If your visa has expired or was only valid for a single entry to Canada

You need to  apply for a new visa Opens in a new tab .

• A visa costs CAN$100.
• It’s valid for up to 10 years.

If your study or work permit will expire soon, you must extend it before you can apply for a new visitor visa.

You need a visitor visa to leave and return to Canada.  Apply for your visa before you leave.

You can apply for a visitor visa from inside Canada if you meet all the conditions below:

• you’re already in Canada
• you hold a valid study or work permit
• you want to  leave and return to Canada  in the near future
• your existing  visitor visa Opens in a new tab  is expired or was valid for only one entry

Exception : If you return  directly  from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing times  don’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa Opens in a new tab

You need a  visitor visa  to travel to Canada.

A visitor visa:

• is a sticker we put in your passport
• costs CAN$100

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a study permit

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a study permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa for you

• letter of introduction that says your work permit application is approved, if you received one

Learn about working in Canada Opens in a new tab

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first work permit.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics)  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a work permit

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a work permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA)

• You don’t need to submit a separate application for an eTA.

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Answer: You need an eTA to leave and return to Canada

Your study permit lets you study in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

What you need depends on your travel plans.

If you re-enter by a Canadian airport (fly back to Canada)

You must have:

• the passport that’s linked to a valid eTA and
• your valid study permit
• costs CAN $7
• is electronically linked to your passport

If you received your current study permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

If you don’t have an eTA or yours has expired, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA.

Apply for an eTA Opens in a new tab

If you re-enter Canada by car, boat, bus or train

• a valid passport and

Answer: If you fly to a Canadian airport, you need an eTA

• costs CAN$7

Most applicants get their eTA approval (via an email) within minutes. However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you drive or arrive by train, bus or boat

You just need a  valid passport or travel document Opens in a new tab  to get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat.

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA) for you

• valid passport that you used to apply for your work permit

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Your work permit lets you work in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

• your valid work permit

If you received your current work permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

• your valid work or study permit

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work or study permit

When you travel to Canada, you must bring your:

• letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

If you’re driving or arriving by train, bus, or boat.

You just need to  bring the right travel documents Opens in a new tab .

If you fly to or transit through a Canadian airport

You just need to travel with your valid U.S. passport if you fly or transit through a Canadian airport.

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit
• valid work or study permit

Answer: Your permit is not an eTA or a visa

When you extend your study permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

• the passport that’s linked to your valid eTA  and
• a valid visitor and

Apply for visitor visa Opens in a new tab

When you extend your work permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

• a valid visitor visa and

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

You can apply for an  eTA  if you travel to Canada  by air only .

• is only valid when flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport

Most applicants get their eTA approval within minutes (via email). However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa  you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If your travel plans change

You need a  visitor visa  (not an eTA) if you decide to  get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat  instead.

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit and
• official proof of U.S. lawful permanent resident status

Answer: You need valid proof of lawful permanent resident status of the U.S. to leave and return to Canada

• valid study permit,
• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit, and

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

• valid passport or travel document and

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit and
• valid work permit
• valid work permit,

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa , you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If you transit through Canada to or from the United States

You  may  be able to  transit through Canada without a visa or eTA if you meet certain eligibility requirements.

You need an official proof of status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., such as one of the following:

• valid permanent resident card (Form I-551)
• foreign passport with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (also known as an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication [ADIT] stamp)
• foreign passport with a temporary I-551 printed notation (“Upon endorsement serves as temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year”) on a machine-readable immigrant visa upon endorsement with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection admission stamp
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) or Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status)
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card [Green Card])
• valid re-entry permit (Form I-327)
• Form I-94 with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp) and a passport-style photo

Important note:

This tool provides information only. It was created to assist you as you decide what travel document you may need to travel to Canada. This tool may not provide information on all travel documents or your particular situation. If you choose to apply, we will assess your application in accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and its related Regulations. Read our complete terms and conditions (opens in a new tab) .

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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.

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

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Not required for stays under 180 days

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  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.

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Assistance for u.s. citizens, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

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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.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

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No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:  

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If you choose to travel, research your destinations and  get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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"I Still Cringe Thinking About It": 21 Of The Worst Travel Faux Pas Americans Have Committed In Other Countries That Left Locals Stunned

"She claimed Canadian gun control laws didn't apply to her because she's American and protected by the Second Amendment."

BuzzFeed Staff

As an American who loves to travel, I'm definitely guilty of a few mistakes and personal cringeworthy moments that I'm sure made some locals snicker. I knew I couldn't be alone in this, so recently, I asked non-Americans of the BuzzFeed Community to share the travel blunders they've seen Americans commit, from the weird to the ignorant. I even did a deep dive on Reddit for more stories. Here's what they had to say.

1. "in the catacombs in paris , someone literally picked up a human skull to pose for pictures with it. that's still someone's family member; show some respect.".

2. "A woman off a yacht tied up in Chester, Nova Scotia, knocked her purse off a bar's table, and a gun rolled out of it and onto the floor. She claimed Canadian gun control laws didn't apply to her because she's American and protected by the Second Amendment."

—Anonymous, 70, Canada

3. "This is something I did, and it's one of those things that haunts me to this day. I was in Spain for an international fireworks competition, and the streets were packed. I needed to pee and went into what looked like a restaurant with the doors wide open. I went past people at a table and downstairs to the bathroom. When I came back up, this man was yelling at me in Spanish, so I didn't understand, but they were very angry. Turns out, in Spain, it's not common to have a kitchen in your home, but families and friends rent a common one to cook together and share meals. So basically, I walked into someone's home while they were having dinner and used their bathroom. I still cringe thinking about it."

4. "I used to live in South Korea and trained new teachers from around the world. The Americans were always upset and almost appalled that in South Korea, they didn't accept USD at shops. The world doesn't revolve around your country and your currency."

5. "a man, probably in his young 20s, was with a group of his friends on the train, and they were all drunk. he had this huge glass shaped like a boot, which i assume was full of beer he drank. after about 10 minutes on the train laughing with his friends (very american; the trains are usually quiet), he threw up in the glass boot. his friends were laughing and saying, 'i can't believe we get to experience this for free' he then hoisted the boot in the air as if he had just won the fifa world cup with all his friends still laughing and cheering.".

— msfranzke

6. "In Amsterdam, I was waiting in a municipal building to get my license renewed when a young guy came in completely stoned, hollering, 'I wanna stay here, so just give me a Dutch passport! I’m an American!'"

7. "i'm an american, but i was visiting england and touring the tower of london. there was a cannon behind a rope with a 'do not touch or climb' sign. this american woman lifted the rope and told her kid (maybe seven years old) to sit on the cannon so she could take a picture. the kid protested and told her the sign said no. the woman said she didn't care and ordered her kid to do it or she'd ground them.".

— u/misterkittybutt

8. "I was in a tour group in Tajikistan, and we were inside a local's house. He had invited us in for tea and was telling us about his family and how many children they have, etc. The only American in the group piped up and asked, 'What contraception does your wife use? Does she use herbs or something?' Everyone was just aghast. He politely avoided the question, and then there was a long, awkward silence. And so she asked AGAIN! At that point, another tour member interjected and said, 'OK, I think it's time for us to leave; thanks for having us.'"

— u/frankiestree

9. "I used to work in a Canadian-themed restaurant in Paris when I was younger. The restaurant was popular with tourists, so we had a lot of American customers. At the time, I was hired because English is my first language, and I'm Canadian, too. One of the funniest things I remember was an American asking if we'd give him a Veterans discount. At a Canadian bar. In Paris."

"Also, because it was a touristy restaurant, we'd see many of the same customers come in for every meal of their holiday. Imagine going to Paris, a culinary capital, and eating every meal at a Canadian-themed bar because the food was guaranteed to be familiar. 

Lastly, the shock to the Americans that someone with my accent would take their order in Paris occasionally led them to ask really inappropriate, personal questions because they felt they could relate to me. I'm talking like, 'How much is your rent here?', 'Where do you live?', 'What kind of visa do you have?', 'What does your family think of you being out here?', etc."

10. "I was in the airport returning to Australia (where I'm from) in the middle of summer, and I saw a dad and his two children, all three wearing full winter coats. The dad said to the two of them, 'Try to stay warm; it's going to be cold outside.'"

— u/ImDaBest_69

11. "Showing up to Mont Tremblant in Quebec, Canada to ski. In July. They were from Michigan."

—Mark, Canada

12. "I lived right next to the Oktoberfest area in Munich. On my way to the supermarket, I saw a man lying unconscious in the bushes, bleeding profusely from a gash in the head. We tried to rouse him with two neighbors and called emergency services. When he came to, he was clearly drunk out of his mind and disoriented. He tried to walk away, not able to even stand properly, and started to curse and threaten us when he realized we had called an ambulance."

"He even got violent with us. Yeah, I get it; that's a scary thing in the US because it means a massive amount of debt, but that's not the case here. Also, it can be a criminal offense here to simply abandon a person who clearly needs medical attention. We had no way of knowing whether he would just drop dead from alcohol poisoning or a concussion. 

So, please: If you come to Munich only to get drunk, make sure you can handle your beer and get back to the hotel safely. For many locals, Oktoberfest is the most terrible time of the year, thanks to many, many similar experiences."

—Rosa, 34, Germany

13. "I live in Norway, and 30 minutes from my house, there is this mountain called Pulpit Rock. It is the biggest tourist attraction nearby. It is not the most difficult trail, but still pretty steep, and every year, I would see American women struggling because they were wearing flip flops or high heels."

— u/JoeyGold

14. "When my American friends were invited to join my family for dinner, my mom, who is a very proper individual and appreciates table manners, would always be mortified by the inability of my friends to use the various cutlery for the right dishes. She was mystified by how my friends stabbed at their food, holding their fork in the wrong hand. One day, one of my friends wandered into the kitchen and grabbed a drink from the fridge: a major mistake. He was never invited back."

—Werner, 57, France

15. "In Australia, they shook a koala out of a tree at a wildlife park."

— u/Istealpotatoes

16. "I was working at a bar in Scotland. One night, there was a woman with her daughter, and she refused to pay with anything other than American cash. It was a super uncomfortable situation. I was trying to explain how stupid it all was while her daughter (who I think was living in Scotland) was trying to calm her down and pay, but the mother kept pulling her hand away from the card machine, saying, 'You people love our money; our money is more important than yours.' She kicked on for a solid five to 10 minutes, and her daughter ended up paying and leaving. Then she had a go at me for embarrassing her daughter and even left a review on Tripadvisor explaining the situation. She explained it perfectly and literally wrote herself as the bad guy in the review. It was mind-boggling how delusional she was."

— u/jaxxie04

17. "When I came down from the Fuji summit after an eight-hour climb and four-hour descent with three layers of clothing to protect myself from the weather, an American with a selfie stick in a T-shirt and shorts asked me where Mount Fuji was. I told him we were on Mount Fuji; it's a big mountain/volcano. 'But where is the summit?' he asked, and I pointed to the summit and told him it's about eight hours that way. This guy thought he could just come in with his selfie stick, grab a few quick selfies on the summit, and return to Tokyo."

— u/vivachris

18. "It's not exactly disrespectful or inappropriate, but certainly weird. I met an American tourist who seemed very confused, so I walked up to her and asked her if I could help. She said yes and asked me how to get to the famous Alps and cuckoo clock workshops. I had to explain to her that she was in Sweden, not Switzerland."

— u/[deleted]

19. "I was at a lavender farm in the south of France a few years ago. Two coach loads of American tourists pulled up, and all got out on the standard 'you won't get long enough to really see this place' type tour. One lady very proudly stated that she was an expert on lavender and that this place was 'cute, but it's all fake; the lavender isn't the right color.' There were bees and other insects all over it, the whole farm smelled amazing, and a harvest was taking place! It was very real."

— u/Suspicious-Comment39

20. "They claimed that Ireland wasn't 'properly' Irish and that the only way to experience 'true' and 'traditional' Irish culture was to visit Boston."

— u/MellotronSymphony

21. "I was at Disneyland in Japan , and an American tourist was standing behind us during the fireworks and castle show. He lit up a cigarette in the middle of the crowd where children were and then loudly complained that because Winnie the Pooh was singing in Japanese, it was 'fucked up' and 'ruined Pooh forever.' I also saw him punch a toddler's balloon because it was in his way."

— u/grindelwaldd

What cringeworthy, inappropriate, or weird thing did you witness an American tourist doing in another country? Tell us about it in the comments below or fill out this anonymous form.

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Service Canada’s Summer Passport Application Service Options for Canadians

From: Employment and Social Development Canada

News release

With a change in season and the school year coming to an end for many families, Canadians are planning their summer vacations, and this may include international travel. Some Canadians will be travelling to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics and the Summer Paralympics, to support their favourite athletes or even to take part in the games themselves.

June 12, 2024                Gatineau, Quebec                    Employment and Social Development Canada

With a change in season and the school year coming to an end for many families, Canadians are planning their summer vacations, and this may include international travel. Some Canadians will be travelling to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics and the Summer Paralympics, to support their favourite athletes or even to take part in the games themselves. Service Canada wants to encourage future travellers to have a valid passport before booking a trip.   

• Canadians who do not have immediate travel plans can take advantage of 20-business-day passport service, available for applications submitted in person at most Service Canada Centres and scheduled outreach sites, and by mail. Wait times can be shorter at these offices than at passport offices. This 20-business-day processing time does not include mailing time.
• For those who need a passport sooner, 39 Service Canada Centres and all passport offices across the country offer 10-business-day service. This service does not include mailing time. At most of these sites, clients have the option to pick up their passport once it’s ready.
• If a passport is needed in less than 10 business days, Canadians must visit an office that offers urgent or express pick-up services. For more information, visit the Get urgent, express or emergency weekend passport services webpage.

Clients who want information on the status of their submitted passport application can visit the online Passport Application Status Checker . This digital tool allows applicants to get updates on their applications without needing to call or visit Service Canada. Those who applied in person will need the file or reference number from their receipt. For mailed applications or those without a number, clients can request to receive the number at the email that was provided in the application. The status for in-person applications will be available after 5 business days, and 10 business days for mailed applications.

Canadians are also reminded to check the destination’s entry and exit requirements , since the passport may need to be valid for a certain period once they enter or leave the destination. For example, Canadians who are planning to attend the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris this summer will need to have a passport that is valid at least three months beyond the date they expect to return to Canada.

This year, we will experience a significant number of applications for renewing 10-year validity passports, which were first issued in July 2013.

Service Canada issued approximately 33% more passports in fiscal year 2023-2024 than the previous year and exceeded the performance target by processing 92% of passport applications within service standards. Service Canada is committed to once again exceeding the performance target of 90% for 2024-2025.

For all the details on Service Canada Centres, passport offices and scheduled outreach sites, visit the Find a Service Canada Office webpage. 

“Many Canadians will travel outside the country in the coming months and need a passport. Service Canada is ready to process applications and deliver passports to Canadians. We are focused on taking every measure possible to eliminate the need to wait in line and to ensure the best client experience for Canadians.” – Minister of Citizens’ Services, Terry Beech

Quick facts

The service standard for applications submitted at passport offices and Service Canada Centres offering 10-day passport service is 10 business days, plus mail time if pick-up is not required.

The service standard for applications submitted at regular Service Canada Centres, scheduled outreach sites and by mail is 20 business days, plus mail time. 

The performance target for application processing is for at least 90% of complete applications to be processed within these service standards. 

All Service Canada points of service in Quebec will remain open during the construction holiday (from July 22 to August 2, 2024). 

Clients can book appointments for passport services at their nearest Service Canada locations on eServiceCanada . Appointment availability may vary, and all passport application form(s) must be completed prior to the appointment.

Estimated wait times at offices offering the 10-business-day service can be found at the Find a passport service location in Canada webpage.

For 2024–25, Service Canada expects to receive between 5.19 million and 5.74 million passport applications. 

Passport Program statistics  are published online, and all data is updated monthly.

Associated links

• Passport Application Status Checker 
• Canadian passports and travel documents
• Travel advice and advisories
• Find a Service Canada Office
• Welcome to the eServiceCanada Appointment Booking Tool
• Passport Program statistics
• Service Canada (Passport Canada) on Facebook
• Canadian Passport Program on X (Twitter)

For media enquiries, please contact:

Teodor Gaspar  Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Citizens’ Services, Terry Beech  [email protected]

Media Relations Office  Employment and Social Development Canada  819-994-5559  [email protected]   Follow us on X (Twitter)

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