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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. You must be able to confirm your legal right or authorization to enter Canada at the border.

Acceptable documents to denote identity and citizenship

Other acceptable documents for establishing canadian citizenship, other acceptable documents to support identity, acceptable documents for establishing registered indian status and identity.

Upon arrival at a Canadian port of entry, travellers must satisfy a CBSA border services officer (BSO) that they meet the requirements for entry into Canada. For Canadian citizens, permanent residents and persons registered under the Indian Act, this can be done through questioning and through verifying documentation such as a:

Canadian passport
Canadian birth certificate
permanent residence card
citizenship card
Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) card or valid Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) card

If you do not have a passport, and are returning to Canada, the following documents can denote identity and citizenship :

NEXUS card, held by a Canadian citizen, when entering Canada by air (when coming from the U.S.), land, or marine modes
FAST card (Free and Secure Trade), issued to a Canadian citizen (when arriving by land or marine modes only)
Canadian emergency travel document
Canadian temporary passport
Certificate of Canadian citizenship (issued from 1954 to present)
Enhanced driver's license issued by a Canadian province or territory
Enhanced identification/photo card issued by a Canadian province or territory

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.

The following documents may be used to establish Canadian citizenship . Upon presentation by travellers, the documents should be supported by other government issued photo identification:

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)
Provincial or territorial birth certificate (individuals born in Canada)

The following documents may be used to establish your identity :

CANPASS card (air, corporate air, private air, remote area border crossing), held by a Canadian citizen
Commercial driver registration program card, held by a Canadian citizen
Provincial and territorial driver's license
Employment or student card with photo and signature
Provincial health insurance card
Provincial identity card
Canadian Forces identification
Police identification
Firearms acquisition certificate
Credit card
Vehicle insurance certificate
Vehicle registration

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 Indian 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 2009. Existing versions of the CIS will remain valid until their renewal date.

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

For information on Canada-U.S. border-crossing issues, visit Crossing the Canada-U.S. border with a status 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 any 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 .

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All international travellers must carry acceptable identification and a valid visa (if necessary) when entering Canada. A passport is recommended because it is the only reliable and universally-accepted travel and identification document for the purpose of international travel.

International transport companies, such as airlines, must make sure that travellers have proper, valid travel documents. If you do not have the proper documents, you may be delayed or refused entry into Canada . What you need will depend on where you are from, how you are travelling, and what documents you are travelling with. Consult entry requirements by country .

When you enter Canada, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and a valid visa, if you are arriving from a country for which one is required. Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website to learn more about what travel documents are required.

Citizens of the U.S. who are members of the NEXUS program may present their membership card as proof of identification and as a document that denotes citizenship, when arriving by air (when coming from the U.S.), land, or marine modes.

Citizens of the U.S. who are members of the FAST program may use their cards as proof of identity when arriving by land and marine modes only.

Permanent residents of the U.S. 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.

All visitors arriving from or transiting through the U.S. are encouraged to visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for information concerning the U.S. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, and the requirements to enter or return to the U.S.

Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization ( eTA ) to fly to or transit through Canada.

Exceptions, or visa and eTA-exempt foreign nationals, include:

U.S. citizens
U.S Lawful Permanent Residents
travellers with a valid Canadian visa
Other exceptions

Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, and Canadian permanent residents do not need to apply for an eTA.

Foreign nationals from select visa-required countries may also travel to or through Canada by air using an eTA , if eligible .

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.

Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization
Get help with Electronic Travel Authorizations
Dual citizens
Canadian permanent residents
Lawful permanent residents of the U.S.

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 .

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Request status of your application

We’re getting a high number of status requests. In some cases, it may take us longer than 3 days to process them.

Your passport application’s status is usually available 10 business days after you submit it . If you applied in person at a Passport Program Office, the status is usually available in 5 business days.

You can also check the status of your child’s application .

In most cases, we process these requests within 3 business days. If we get an unusually high number of requests in a short time, it may take us longer.

If you’ve already made a request, do not submit another one . Resubmitting may cause more delays.

Details of the application

Applicant information.

By filling out this form, you are providing information voluntarily. We collect this information to help us better respond to your comments and requests. This information is protected under the provisions of the Privacy Act . The Act ensures your right to access your personal information.

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What happens after I send in my application?

In most cases, your application will go through these general steps.

If you’re applying for an electronic travel authorization (eTA)

Email notification.

In most cases, you’ll receive a confirmation from us within minutes of applying for your eTA. However, some requests may need several days to process. If this is the case, you can expect an email from us within 72 hours of applying. It will tell you what to do next.

Be sure to give us a current email address when you apply.

Changing your email address

If you change your email address after you apply for an eTA , you must update your email address online. You can do this using this Web form .

After you receive your eTA

Your eTA will be valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Your eTA is linked to the passport you used in your eTA application. You will need to show this passport to the airline agent every time you board a flight.

Note: Having a valid eTA and travel document will make it easier for you to enter Canada, but it does not guarantee your entry. When you arrive in Canada, you will still need to show a border services officer that you meet all requirements to enter . If you do not, you may not be allowed to enter.

If you’re applying for a visitor visa, study or work permit

We’ll

review your application to make sure it’s complete
once you pay the biometrics fee, send you a letter that tells you how to give your biometrics (if applicable)
receive and review your biometrics after you gave them at a collection point (if applicable)
decide if you’re allowed to come to or stay in Canada (we could do a background check)
decide if you’re eligible to apply to work, study or visit Canada
tell you how to get a medical exam (if you need one)
decide if you need to go to an interview
tell you of the decision we make on your application

If you applied online, we’ll contact you through your account .

If you applied on paper, we’ll contact you using the information you gave us.

If you’re applying for permanent residence or to sponsor a family member

review your application to make sure it’s complete
once you pay the biometric fee, send you or your family member a letter that tells you how to give your biometrics (if applicable)
receive and review your or your family member’s biometrics after you have given them at a collection point
decide if you’re eligible to sponsor
decide if you’re eligible to apply to become a permanent resident of Canada
tell you when we start processing your application,
tell you how to get a medical exam, if you didn’t get one before sending in your application
do a security screening to make sure all applicants don’t pose a risk to the safety and security of Canadians

If you’re applying for citizenship

To process applications for a grant of Canadian citizenship, we’ll

take your fees and send you an acknowledgement of receipt letter
review your application to make sure you meet the requirements for Canadian citizenship
schedule you to take the citizenship test, if you’re between 18 and 54 years old
schedule an interview with you (All applicants will have an interview with an IRCC official. Some applicants may need to have a hearing with a citizenship officer or a citizenship judge)
tell you of the decision made on your application
schedule you to take the oath of citizenship in person at a citizenship ceremony, if we approve your application

If you’re applying for proof of citizenship (citizenship certificate)

Once we receive your application for a citizenship certificate, we check that it’s complete. If it is, we’ll start processing it.

If your case is complex, we may contact you to get more information. Complex applications may take us longer to process than the processing time shown on our website.

Find out more about what happens after you apply for a citizenship certificate .

If you’re applying for a search of citizenship records

When we receive your application for a search of citizenship records, we’ll review it and check that it’s complete. If it is, we’ll start processing and searching our citizenship records using the information you provided. If it’s incomplete, we’ll contact you to ask for the missing information and we may return your application.

Find out more about what happens after you apply for a search of citizenship records , including:

how to track and update your application
what you’ll receive if we find or don’t find a record

There are several ways to check the status of your application.

Did you find what you were looking for?

If not, tell us why:

You will not receive a reply. Telephone numbers and email addresses will be removed. Maximum 300 characters

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How Long Does It Take To Get Travel Document In Canada

Published: October 31, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Sean Braden

Plan Your Trip

Introduction

Planning a trip abroad can be an exciting experience, but it often comes with logistical considerations, including obtaining a travel document. If you are a resident of Canada and need to travel internationally but do not have a valid passport, you may be eligible to obtain a travel document.

A travel document, also known as a certificate of identity or a refugee travel document, is issued by the Government of Canada to Canadian residents who are unable to obtain a passport from their home country. This documentation allows individuals to travel internationally for essential purposes, such as business, family emergencies, or humanitarian reasons.

In this article, we will explore the process of obtaining a travel document in Canada, including eligibility requirements, required documents, application procedures, processing times, expedited options, and collecting the travel document. Whether you are a refugee, a permanent resident, or a protected person in Canada, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the necessary information.

It is important to note that a travel document is not a replacement for a passport and may have certain limitations, such as restricted validity or specific travel permissions. Additionally, the application process and requirements may vary depending on your specific circumstances, so it is recommended to consult with an immigration professional or refer to the official Government of Canada website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Now, let’s dive deeper into the eligibility requirements for obtaining a travel document in Canada.

Eligibility requirements for obtaining a travel document in Canada

In order to be eligible for a travel document in Canada, you must meet certain criteria set by the Government of Canada. These requirements vary depending on your immigration status and the type of travel document you are applying for. Here are the general eligibility requirements:

Canadian residency: You must be a resident of Canada and be able to provide proof of your residency status, such as a permanent resident card, protected person status, or refugee claimant documents.
Inability to obtain a passport: You must demonstrate that you are unable to obtain a passport from your home country. This could be due to various reasons, including political instability, lack of diplomatic relations, or personal circumstances.
Travel necessity: You must have a valid reason for international travel, such as business obligations, family emergencies, medical treatment, or humanitarian purposes. The travel must be considered essential and not for leisure or tourism.
Admissibility: You must meet the admissibility requirements to enter the country you intend to visit. This includes factors such as criminal history, health conditions, and previous immigration violations.

It is important to note that the eligibility requirements may differ for specific types of travel documents. For example, if you are a protected person in Canada, you may be eligible for a Refugee Travel Document, whereas if you are a Convention Travel Document may be available for individuals with protected person status or certain temporary resident permits.

When applying for a travel document, you will need to provide supporting documents to prove your eligibility. These documents may include a letter explaining the necessity of travel, official identification documents, proof of residency in Canada, travel itinerary, and any other relevant supporting documentation specific to your circumstances.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can proceed with the application process. In the next section, we will explore the different types of travel documents available in Canada.

Types of travel documents available in Canada

When it comes to traveling internationally from Canada without a valid passport, there are several types of travel documents that you may be eligible to obtain. The specific document you need will depend on your immigration status and the nature of your travel. Here are the main types of travel documents available in Canada:

Certificate of Identity: This is a travel document issued to Canadian permanent residents, protected persons, or stateless individuals residing in Canada. It allows them to travel internationally for essential purposes.
Refugee Travel Document: This document is available to individuals with protected person status, convention refugees, or individuals with pending refugee claims in Canada. It allows them to travel internationally and return to Canada.
Permit to Re-enter Canada: This document is issued to permanent residents of Canada who are outside of the country and do not have a valid PR card. It allows them to return to Canada as a permanent resident.
Emergency Travel Document: In exceptional circumstances where an individual needs to travel urgently but does not have any other travel document, an emergency travel document may be issued. This document is valid for a single entry and is usually for situations such as medical emergencies or the death of a family member.

It is important to determine the most relevant travel document based on your immigration status and the purpose of your travel. The eligibility requirements, application process, and validity period may vary for each type of document.

Once you have identified the appropriate travel document for your situation, the next step is to gather the necessary documents to support your application. In the next section, we will discuss the documents required when applying for a travel document in Canada.

Documents required to apply for a travel document in Canada

When applying for a travel document in Canada, you will need to provide certain documents to support your application. These documents serve as proof of your identity, residency, and the necessity of your travel. While the specific requirements may vary depending on your situation and the type of travel document you are applying for, here are some common documents that are typically required:

Application Form: You will need to complete the appropriate application form for the specific travel document you are applying for. The form can be obtained from the official Government of Canada website or the designated office where you are submitting your application.
Proof of Identity: You will be required to submit valid identification documents, such as a valid driver’s license, birth certificate, or citizenship certificate. These documents must clearly show your full name, date of birth, and photograph.
Proof of Residency: You must provide proof of your residency in Canada, such as a valid permanent resident card, protected person status document, or refugee claimant document. These documents demonstrate that you are a resident of Canada and eligible to apply for a travel document.
Passport-sized Photographs: You will need to provide recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specific requirements outlined by the Government of Canada. The photographs must have a plain background and show your face clearly without any accessories, hats, or sunglasses.
Travel Itinerary: You may be required to provide a detailed travel itinerary that includes the dates, destinations, and the purpose of your travel. This document helps the authorities assess the necessity of your travel and the validity of your application.
Supporting Documents: Depending on the nature of your travel and your immigration status, you may need to provide additional supporting documents. This could include a letter explaining the necessity of travel, employment letters, medical reports, or any other relevant documents that support your application.

It is crucial to ensure that all documents provided are valid, accurate, and up-to-date. Any incomplete or incorrect documentation may result in delays or the rejection of your application. It is recommended to carefully review the application requirements and consult with an immigration professional or refer to the official Government of Canada website for specific document requirements based on your circumstances.

Now that you have a clear understanding of the documents required, let’s move on to the application process for obtaining a travel document in Canada.

Application process for obtaining a travel document in Canada

The application process for obtaining a travel document in Canada involves several steps. It is important to follow these steps carefully to ensure that your application is complete and processed efficiently. Here is an overview of the typical application process:

Step 1: Determine your eligibility: Before starting the application process, you must ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for the specific travel document you are applying for. Review the eligibility criteria outlined by the Government of Canada to make sure you qualify before proceeding.
Step 2: Gather the required documents: Collect all the necessary documents to support your application. This includes identification documents, proof of residency, passport-sized photographs, travel itinerary, and any other supporting documents specific to your situation.
Step 3: Complete the application form: Fill out the appropriate application form accurately and legibly. Ensure that all required fields are completed, and any additional information or documentation requested is provided.
Step 4: Pay the application fee: Depending on the type of travel document you are applying for, an application fee will be required. The fee can be paid online or in-person at the designated office where you are submitting your application.
Step 5: Submit your application: Once you have gathered all the necessary documents and completed the application form, submit your application to the designated office. This can be done in person or by mail, depending on the specific instructions provided by the office.
Step 6: Wait for the processing: After submitting your application, it will be processed by the relevant authorities. The processing time can vary depending on various factors, including the type of travel document and the current workload of the office.
Step 7: Track the status of your application: It is possible to track the status of your application online through the official Government of Canada website. This will provide you with updates on the progress of your application and any additional information required.
Step 8: Collect your travel document: Once your application is approved, you will need to collect your travel document from the designated office. Follow the instructions provided to ensure a smooth collection process.

It is important to remember that the application process and requirements may vary depending on your specific circumstances and the type of travel document you are applying for. It is recommended to consult with an immigration professional or refer to the official Government of Canada website for detailed instructions and specific application procedures based on your situation.

Now that we have covered the application process, let’s explore the processing time for travel document applications in Canada.

Processing time for travel document applications in Canada

The processing time for travel document applications in Canada can vary depending on several factors, including the type of travel document being applied for and the current workload of the processing office. It is important to note that these processing times are only estimates and are subject to change. Here are some general guidelines on the expected processing time for different types of travel documents:

Certificate of Identity: The processing time for a Certificate of Identity can range from several weeks to a few months. It is advisable to submit your application well in advance of your intended travel date to allow for sufficient processing time.
Refugee Travel Document: The processing time for a Refugee Travel Document can also vary, typically taking several months. As this process may involve additional security checks and verification, it is important to plan your travel accordingly and apply as early as possible.
Permit to Re-enter Canada: The processing time for a Permit to Re-enter Canada is generally faster, often within a few weeks. However, it is still advisable to apply well in advance to account for any unexpected delays or complications.
Emergency Travel Document: The processing time for an Emergency Travel Document can be expedited in urgent situations. However, this option is only available for genuine emergencies, such as medical emergencies or the death of a family member.

It is important to note that these processing times are only estimates based on general experiences. The actual processing time for your application may be shorter or longer depending on various factors. It is always recommended to plan your travel and submit your application well in advance to allow for any potential delays.

Additionally, it is worth noting that certain circumstances, such as incomplete applications, missing documents, or the need for additional information, can prolong the processing time. Therefore, ensure that you have provided all the required documents and have filled out the application form correctly to avoid any unnecessary delays.

In urgent situations where you require a travel document within a shorter timeframe, you may be eligible for expedited processing options. Let’s explore these options in the next section.

Expedited processing options for urgent travel situations

In certain urgent travel situations, where you need a travel document in a shorter timeframe, the Government of Canada provides expedited processing options. These options are designed to accommodate individuals who need to travel urgently due to unforeseen circumstances or emergencies. Here are some of the expedited processing options available:

Emergency processing: If you have a documented emergency, such as a medical emergency or the death of a family member, you may be eligible for emergency processing. This allows your application to be prioritized and processed more quickly to facilitate your urgent travel needs.
Express service: Some designated offices offer express service for travel document applications. This service typically involves an additional fee and allows for faster processing. The exact processing time for express service may vary depending on the office and the current workload.
Appointment-based services: Depending on the specific office, you may be able to schedule an appointment for your travel document application. This can help expedite the processing time by ensuring a dedicated time slot for your application and reducing waiting times.

It is important to note that expedited processing options are subject to certain eligibility criteria and may require additional documentation to support your request for faster processing. In some cases, you may need to provide evidence of your urgent travel situation or verify the need for expedited service.

If you believe that your travel situation warrants expedited processing, it is recommended to contact the designated office or consult with an immigration professional for guidance. They can provide you with specific instructions on how to apply for expedited processing and any additional requirements that may be necessary.

While expedited processing options can help in urgent situations, it is still vital to plan your travel and submit your application as early as possible to avoid any last-minute complications. Keeping track of the status of your application and staying updated on any communication from the authorities will also help ensure a smoother and more efficient process.

Now that we have covered expedited processing options, let’s explore how to track the status of your travel document application in the next section.

Tracking the status of your travel document application

Once you have submitted your travel document application in Canada, you may wonder how to track the status of your application. Tracking the status allows you to stay informed about the progress of your application and any updates or additional information required. Here are the steps to track the status of your travel document application:

Receipt number: When you submitted your application, you should have received a receipt or acknowledgment letter containing a unique receipt number. This receipt number is essential for tracking the status of your application.
Government of Canada website: Visit the official Government of Canada website and navigate to the page dedicated to tracking the status of your application. Look for the section related to travel documents and enter your receipt number when prompted.
Online portal: In some cases, the government may provide an online portal where you can create an account or log in using your receipt number. This portal provides detailed information about your application status, including any updates or requests for additional documentation.
Updates via email or mail: Depending on the office and your communication preferences, you may receive updates about your application via email or regular mail. It is important to provide accurate contact information during the application process to ensure you receive these updates.
Contact the designated office: If you are unable to track the status online or have specific inquiries about your application, you can contact the designated office where you submitted your application. They will provide you with the necessary information and address any concerns you may have.

Tracking the status of your travel document application allows you to stay informed throughout the process and helps you plan accordingly. It is essential to regularly check for updates and respond promptly to any requests or notifications from the authorities to ensure a smooth application process.

Keep in mind that processing times can vary, and it is normal for applications to take some time. If you have concerns about the processing time or require further assistance, it is recommended to contact the designated office or consult with an immigration professional who can provide guidance specific to your situation.

Now that you know how to track the status of your application, let’s move on to the final section on collecting your travel document from the designated office.

Collecting your travel document from the designated office

Once your travel document application has been approved, the next step is to collect your document from the designated office. The process for collecting your travel document may vary based on the specific office and the type of travel document you have applied for. Here are the general steps to collect your travel document:

Notification: You will receive a notification, either by email, mail, or through the online portal, informing you that your travel document is ready for collection. The notification will provide you with instructions on where and when to collect your document.
Identification: When collecting your travel document, make sure to bring valid and original identification documents with you. This is necessary to verify your identity and ensure that the travel document is handed over to the correct individual.
Authorized representative: If you are unable to collect the travel document in person, you may authorize someone else to collect it on your behalf. This individual must bring their own identification documents as well as a letter of authorization signed by you.
Signature and verification: Upon receiving your travel document, you will likely be required to sign a receipt or acknowledgment form. This verifies that you have received the document and confirms the completion of the process.
Double-checking: Before leaving the office, take a moment to review the travel document and ensure that all information is accurate. If you notice any errors or discrepancies, immediately bring it to the attention of the office staff for correction.

It is important to follow the instructions provided in the notification and collect your travel document within the designated timeframe. Failure to collect the document within the specified period may result in additional complications, such as the need for rescheduling or reapplication.

Remember to keep your travel document in a secure place and make copies for backup purposes. Having a copy of your travel document is essential in case of loss or theft while you are traveling.

Finally, always ensure that you have your travel document with you when traveling internationally. Without a valid travel document, you may encounter difficulties at immigration checkpoints or face potential denial of entry into a foreign country.

With this, our guide on obtaining and collecting a travel document in Canada comes to a close. We hope this information has been helpful in guiding you through the process. Safe travels!

Obtaining a travel document in Canada is an important process for residents who need to travel internationally but do not have a valid passport. Whether you are a permanent resident, protected person, or refugee claimant, understanding the eligibility requirements, required documents, application process, and processing times is essential.

In this comprehensive guide, we have covered the key aspects of obtaining a travel document in Canada. We explored the eligibility requirements, including Canadian residency, inability to obtain a passport, and the necessity of travel. We also discussed the different types of travel documents available, such as the Certificate of Identity, Refugee Travel Document, Permit to Re-enter Canada, and Emergency Travel Document.

Additionally, we provided insights into the documents required for the application process, including identification documents, proof of residency, photographs, and supporting documentation. We discussed the steps involved in the application process, emphasizing the importance of accurate and complete application forms as well as timely submission.

Furthermore, we discussed the processing times for travel document applications and the expedited processing options available for urgent travel situations. We highlighted the need to track the status of your application through the Government of Canada website or designated portals, as well as the importance of collecting the travel document from the designated office.

As a final note, it is important to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest information regarding travel documents and requirements. Consulting with an immigration professional or referring to the official Government of Canada website will provide you with the most accurate and reliable information specific to your circumstances.

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of the travel document application process in Canada, you can proceed with confidence and plan your international travel accordingly. Remember to allow sufficient time for processing, gather all the necessary documents, and follow the guidelines provided by the authorities.

Safe travels and may your travel document serve as a gateway to new adventures and opportunities abroad!

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Travel tips for snowbirds returning to Canada

From: Canada Border Services Agency

News release

April 12, 2024 Ottawa, Ontario

The Canada Border Services Agency and the Canadian Snowbird Association are encouraging Canadians who have spent the winter abroad to plan ahead for a smooth return to Canada this spring.

These are the top travel tips to know before arriving at the border:

Have your travel documents handy. Whether travelling by land, air or water, you can help speed up processing times by coming prepared with your travel documents.

Driving home? Plan ahead and check border wait times . You can avoid waiting in line by planning your drive to cross the border during non-peak hours such as early morning.

Flying home? Save time with Advance Declaration . Download the application on your smart phone to make your customs declaration up to 72 hours in advance of your arrival into Canada at the Toronto, Vancouver, Montréal, Winnipeg, Halifax, Québec City, Ottawa, Billy Bishop, Calgary and Edmonton international airports. Data shows that using this tool can reduce time at a kiosk or eGate by up to 50%.

Be prepared to declare your goods upon entry into Canada. Gather your receipts for goods purchased or received while away before you travel and keep them readily available. Visit I Declare: A guide for residents returning to Canada and use the CBSA duty and taxes estimator to help calculate your monies owed. You should be aware of everything that is inside your vehicle as you are responsible for its contents.

Know your exemptions from duties and taxes . If you have been outside of Canada seven days or more, you can import goods worth up to CAN$800, duty-and tax-free. Within this personal exemption, you are allowed to bring back duty and tax free:

Two bottles of wine (1.5 litres total), or one large standard bottle of liquor (1.14 litres), or approximately 24 cans or bottles (355 ml each) of beer (8.5 litres total); and,
200 cigarettes, and 50 cigars, and 200 grams manufactured tobacco, and 200 tobacco sticks. The packages must be stamped “duty paid,” as you would find them at a duty-free store.

Travelling with medication? If you have a prescription for a narcotic or controlled drug, you must declare it and ensure its in properly labelled container. Learn more about your responsibilities .

Travelling with firearms? If you are travelling with a firearm be sure to check the rules on importing firearms and other restricted and prohibited goods before your departure. Better yet, consider leaving the firearm at home.

Importing a vehicle ? If you are a resident of Canada you can temporarily import a vehicle that is licensed and registered in the United States, however, the duty and tax implications, the length of time the vehicle can remain in Canada, and how the vehicle can be used in Canada may differ. If you are permanently importing a vehicle from the U.S. or Mexico, visit Canada’s Registrar of Imported Vehicles website prior to arriving at the border for details about vehicle eligibility and the overall process, including the necessary duties and taxes.

Bringing poultry across the border? Any poultry products you wish to bring into Canada must be for human consumption, retail packaged and labelled as a "Product of the USA." Homemade food or leftovers containing poultry cannot be brought into Canada. Check the latest Information for travellers: Restrictions on poultry and birds from the United States before bringing these products across the border.

Travelling with a pet or importing an animal into Canada? You will need the right paperwork at the border to meet Canada's import requirements.

Not sure? Ask a border officer. The best thing you can do to save time is to be open and honest with the CBSA officer. Be sure to follow all instructions they provide to you. If you are not sure about what to declare, don't hesitate to ask. Our officers are here to help!

Quick facts

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) supports national security and public safety priorities by facilitating the free flow of persons and goods, including animals and plants.

The Canadian Snowbird Association is a not-for-profit advocacy organization for travelling Canadians, representing more than 115,000 members.

Associated links

Plan your trip across the border
Duties and taxes estimator
I Declare: A guide for residents returning to Canada
Border reminder checklist
Advance Declaration video
The CBSA and U.S. CBP provide an update on the NEXUS program

For more information about CBSA programs, services and initiatives, please visit the CBSA website or contact:

Border Information Services Canada Border Services Agency 1-800-461-9999 Contact us online Live agents are available Monday to Friday from 8 am to 4 pm local time

For more information or to schedule a media interview, please contact:

Media Relations Canada Border Services Agency [email protected] 1-877-761-5945

Communications Canadian Snowbird Association [email protected]

For more travel tips for Canadian snowbirds, join the Canada Border Services Agency on Facebook and YouTube and visit the Canadian Snowbird Association website .

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Travel documents for children

Canadian children need a Canadian passport when travelling outside Canada.

They may also need the following documents:

Consent letter that confirms the child has permission to travel outside Canada (for example, when taking a trip alone or with only 1 parent or guardian)
Provincial birth certificate

If your child needs a Canadian citizenship certificate to get a Canadian passport, you must apply for proof of citizenship .

Other legal documents may be needed depending on family circumstances, including:

Divorce papers
Child custody orders or agreements
Death certificate of a parent or parents

A child travelling as a dual citizen will need a valid Canadian passport to board a flight to or transiting through Canada by air .

The definition of a minor changes from province to province and from country to country.

Before you leave, check the foreign diplomatic mission or consulate in Canada and the Travel Advice and Advisories for your destination for any specific entry or exit requirements for minors and other laws and regulations that affect children.