Travel Guide
Select your passport to instantly check if you need a visa.

Discover
The most iconic and unmissable experiences this country has to offer.
Canada's oldest national park in the heart of the Rockies — turquoise glacial lakes, snow-capped peaks, abundant wildlife, and world-class skiing at Lake Louise.
One of the most powerful waterfalls in the world, straddling the Ontario-New York border. Best experienced by boat, or lit up dramatically after dark.
Health & Safety
Before you travel, check that: your destination can provide the healthcare you may need you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. Emergency medical number Dial 911 and ask for an ambulance. Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. Vaccine recommendations and health risks At least 8 weeks before your trip: check the latest vaccine recommendations for Canada see where to get vaccines and whether
Full health advice (FCDO) →Health information sourced from UK FCDO. Always consult a travel health professional before departure.
Practical Info
Travel Guide
Citizens of many countries — including the UK, Australia, France, Germany, Japan, and others — can visit Canada visa-free but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying. US citizens are visa-exempt and do not need an eTA when flying. Citizens of other countries need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).
Most visitors are permitted to stay for up to 6 months per visit. The exact duration is determined by the border services officer at the port of entry.
A valid passport, a valid eTA (if applicable) or Canadian visa, evidence of sufficient funds, and a return or onward travel ticket. All travellers must clear Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) on arrival.
Canada is one of the safest countries in the world for tourists. Crime rates in most areas are low. Exercise normal caution in all locations, particularly in downtown areas of major cities.
The Canadian Dollar (CAD, symbol C$). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas near the US border, though at unfavourable exchange rates. ATMs are widely available.
Canada has two official languages: English and French. French is predominant in Québec and parts of New Brunswick. The rest of the country is predominantly English-speaking.
Summer (June–August) is peak season for outdoor activities, national parks, and festivals. Winter (December–March) is ideal for skiing at Whistler or in the Rockies. Fall (September–October) brings stunning foliage across much of the country.
Explore Banff National Park, see Niagara Falls, walk Old Quebec City, whale-watch in British Columbia, ski or snowboard at Whistler, experience the Northern Lights from Yukon or Manitoba, visit the CN Tower in Toronto, and go wildlife-watching for bears and polar bears.
Toronto Pearson International (YYZ) is the busiest. Vancouver International (YVR), Montréal-Trudeau (YUL), and Calgary International (YYC) are also major international gateways.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Canada has an excellent public healthcare system but it does not cover foreign visitors. Medical costs can be very high.
No vaccinations are legally required for entry. Standard routine immunisations are recommended.
Yes. A valid foreign driver's licence is accepted in Canada for up to 60–90 days depending on the province. An International Driving Permit is recommended. Drive on the right side of the road.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only walled city in North America north of Mexico. Its cobblestone streets, French architecture, and fortress walls are extraordinary.
Turquoise lakes and snow-capped Rockies in Canada's oldest national park
You may bring in C$800 worth of goods duty-free after 7+ days abroad. Declare all food, plants, and animal products. Cash over C$10,000 must be declared. Cannabis is legal in Canada but cannot be imported or exported internationally.
Tipping is customary and important. Tip 15–20% at restaurants, bars, and for taxis. Many payment terminals have preset tip suggestions. Hotel housekeeping, porters, and tour guides also expect tips.
Yes. Tap water is safe to drink in cities and towns throughout Canada. In some remote Indigenous communities, there have been longstanding boil-water advisories — check locally.
Canada uses Type A (two flat parallel pins) and Type B (two flat pins plus round grounding pin) at 120V / 60Hz — the same as the United States. European and Australian travellers will need an adapter and a voltage converter for most devices.
911 is the emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance throughout Canada.
Canada is consistently rated at the lowest advisory level — 'take normal precautions' — by most governments. Check your government's official travel advice for any province- or territory-specific notes.
Entry requirements by passport
Pick your passport to see the exact requirement, the stay limit, and the official source.