Canada

Demonstrations

Ottawa and other Canadian cities experienced significant demonstrations in February 2022 against pandemic restrictions. Canadian authorities continue to monitor for further disruptions.

Avoid areas where protests occur due to the ongoing potential for unrest and violence:

• monitor the media for information and updates
• comply with any movement restrictions or curfews set by local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

The crime rate in Canada is similar to Australia.

Crime is more likely in larger cities.

Petty crime

Petty crime, like pickpocketing and bag-snatching, can happen at tourist spots, hotels, and public transport.

Theft from unattended cars is common in larger cities.

As in Australia, credit card scams and fraud can happen.

To protect yourself from petty crime:

• look after your belongings in public
• regularly check your credit card account and report suspicious activity to your bank
• monitor local sources of information on crime

More information:

• Internet, email and telephone scams

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Canada's Integrated Terrorism Assessment Centre assesses the terrorism threat in Canada to be Medium, meaning that a violent act of terrorism could occur.

The principal terrorist threat in Canada is posed by individuals or groups inspired by violent and extremist ideologies - whether political, religious or ideological. In recent years, Canada has seen a small number of lone-actor violent incidents reportedly involving extremist ideologies.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners and places of worship.

To reduce your risk of being involved in a terrorist incident:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places or near known potential targets
• report any suspicious activity or items to the police
• monitor the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the affected area as soon as it's safe to do so. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

More information:

• Terrorism

Bears and other dangerous wildlife live in forested areas.

To protect yourself if you plan to travel through these areas:

• get local advice before hiking
• respect wildlife laws
• maintain a safe and legal distance from all wildlife
• use reputable and professional tour operators
• follow park regulations and wardens' advice

Winter sports can be dangerous, even fatal. Injuries are common.

Some mountainous areas of Alberta and British Columbia experience avalanches. It's unsafe to ski, snowboard and ride skidoos (snowmobiles) on closed trails.

If you plan to do a winter sport or activity:

• check your travel insurance covers it
• don't enter closed trails
• tell friends or family where you're going and when you expect to return
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

Natural disasters and severe weather events regularly impact Canada. These include:

• extreme temperatures - heat and cold
• winter storms (freezing rain, heavy snow, blizzards), wildfires
• earthquakes
• landslides and avalanches
• hurricanes and tornadoes
• tsunamis
• floods

Information, alerts and updates relating to natural disasters and significant severe weather events impacting Canada will be provided via the Australian High Commission and Smartraveller social media channels:

• Australian High Commission - Facebook and Twitter
• Smartraveller - Facebook and Twitter

Preparedness

In the event of a natural disaster, our ability to provide consular assistance may be limited.

Prepare yourself by 

• securing your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with your friends and family
• check the weather and environmental conditions
• subscribe to local emergency alert systems
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor the media, Environment Canada, and the Canadian Hurricane Centre for information and weather alerts

Anticipate disruptions before, during and after a natural disaster(s).

• Flights into and out of affected areas may be diverted, delayed or cancelled. Other forms of travel may also be impacted.
• Adequate shelter might not be available.
• Essential services such as water, electricity, internet and mobile phone services may be disrupted.

Keep in contact with family and friends and let them know you're safe.

More information:

• Get prepared

Severe weather

Temperatures in winter (December to February) of -20 to -30°C, with a wind-chill factor 10 to 15°C lower, are common in some areas. Heavy snowfalls, rain, ice and severe cold create dangerous outdoor conditions.

Temperatures in summer (June to August) can reach more than 30°C. Humidity can make the temperature feel 10 to 15°C higher. These conditions can generate severe storms and tornadoes, especially across the provinces of:

• Alberta
• Saskatchewan
• Manitoba

Severe weather can occur year-round in Canada and cause especially hazardous conditions. Monitor Environment Canada for forecasts, updates and severe weather alerts and warnings.

Tornadoes and hurricanes

Tornadoes occur between April and September in many areas, including:

• southern Ontario
• Alberta
• south-eastern Quebec
• from southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba to Thunder Bay

Hurricanes occur in the Atlantic provinces from June to November. The direction and strength of hurricanes can change suddenly.

If there's a hurricane or severe storm:

• flights could be delayed or suspended
• adequate shelter may not be available

Severe weather may also affect access to ports.

To protect yourself if a hurricane is approaching:

• identify your local shelter
• know the evacuation plan for your hotel or cruise ship

Forest fires

There are currently several out-of-control wildfires, including in the provinces of Alberta and Nova Scotia. Local authorities have declared a state of emergency in Alberta province and Halifax Regional Municipality. Evacuation orders have been issued in certain areas.

If you're in Alberta, you should:

• check the status of wildfires in Alberta
• sign up to Alberta’s emergency alert service (also available on Twitter, or by downloading the Alberta Emergency Alert app on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store)

If you're in Nova Scotia, particularly near Halifax, you should:

•  check the status of wildfires in Nova Scotia (also available on Twitter or Facebook)
•  sign up to Halifax’s emergency alert service

Forest fires are common, particularly in the warmer months from May to August.

To stay safe in fire season:

• check local media before visiting forested areas
• follow the advice of local authorities

Earthquakes and tsunamis

British Columbia is in an earthquake zone. Earthquakes have also happened in Quebec and Ontario.

Destructive tsunamis are rare but could happen if there's an earthquake in the Pacific Ocean.

If you're near the coast, move to the nearest high ground or as far inland as you can if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings.

After a disaster

Travelling to areas affected by natural disasters and severe weather events can be dangerous. 

If you plan to travel to a region after a natural disaster, check with your transport operator that services are operating.

Contact the place you intend to stay in and check other sources for details on local conditions.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away
• that your insurance covers any pre-existing medical conditions

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
• COVID-19 vaccines (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Canada. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Contact Health Canada for rules that may apply to medications you wish to take or that may be detectable in your body.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

COVID-19

COVID-19 remains a risk in Canada.

For information on Canada's COVID−19 vaccination program, refer to the Government of Canada's website. You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.

More information:

• Government of Canada 
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Other health risks

Health risks in Canada are similar to those in Australia.

More information:

• Health Canada

Medical facilities

The standard of health facilities in Canada is similar to Australia. You might not be able to access public health care unless you're a resident of a Canadian province. Walk-in clinics are found in major cities. Many doctors won't take new patients.

Expect to pay up-front for medical services.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave Australia, and make sure it covers you for:

• the duration of your trip
• all activities you intend to undertake
• any pre-existing medical conditions  
• all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation

The Australian Government won't cover these costs, and Australia and Canada have no reciprocal healthcare agreement. This means that you aren't covered by Australian Medicare in Canada. 

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

The recreational use of marijuana (cannabis) is legal in Canada, subject to local restrictions. 

Make sure you know the local cannabis laws about:

• legal age
• possession
• purchase
• sharing
• impairment
• production

It's illegal to transport marijuana across Canada's international borders.

If you break the law, you can receive criminal penalties, including jail time.

More information:

• Cannabis laws and regulations
• Carrying and using drugs

 Alcohol

Check the local legal drinking age before buying or drinking alcohol. The legal age varies across the country.

Other laws

Seek legal advice before entering into a surrogacy arrangement.

More information:

• Surrogacy and adoption

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Canada recognises dual nationality.

If you're a Canadian dual national, you must:

• use your Canadian passport to enter and exit Canada
• make sure your Canadian and Australian passports are valid for the duration of your trip
• use your Australian passport to enter and exit Australia

Dual nationals aren't eligible for an electronic travel authorisation (eTA).

Even if you're a dual national, you may not get free health care in Canada. See Health

More information:

• Dual nationals

Visas

Australian passport holders must apply for an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) before travelling to Canada by air.

If you arrive by car, bus, train, or boat, you don't need an ETA or a visitor visa, but you do need to bring the correct travel documents.

If you overstay your visa, you may be detained or arrested.

You may not be allowed into Canada if you have a criminal record, including a drink-driving conviction. Check Government of Canada for details.

Entry and exit conditions can change. Contact a Canadian embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

You may need documentation if you travel with children, pets or bring goods into Canada. Check with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

Your child should carry a consent letter from non-travelling parents or guardians if they're travelling:

• alone
• with only one parent or guardian
• with friends, relatives or a group

CBSA may question the child or accompanying adult about their status.

More information: 

• Travelling with children

Border measures

You no longer need to take a COVID-19 test before travelling to Canada. Check the latest entry, transit and exit requirements before you travel.

More information: 

• Government of Canada

Departure from Canada

Vaccination for COVID-19 is no longer required to board a plane or train in Canada. 

More information:

• Government of Canada

Travel to Australia

Contact your travel provider for the latest flight options to Australia. Ensure you meet third-country transit requirements before you depart Canada.

Travel via the United States

Contact the US Pre-clearance Office at the Canadian airport you're departing, to confirm that you'll be permitted to board your flight in Canada and transit through the United States.

If you're travelling through the US, you must meet US entry and transit requirements. Check with an embassy or consulate of the United States.

More information:

• Visit Canada
• Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
• Travel advice for the US

Validity

If you're entering Canada using your Australian passport, you must ensure you have a valid passport that does not expire within 6 months of your trip. Different rules may apply in countries that you plan to transit or visit on your way to Canada. Be sure to check the entry requirements of those countries. 

Some countries and airlines don't follow this rule consistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with X gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information:

LGBTI travellers

The local currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD).

You can change Australian dollars at commercial banks and exchange bureaus.

Declare all amounts over $C10,000. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

Local restrictions

Various COVID-19 restrictions and public health prevention measures remain in place and vary by location. 

More information:

Provincial Public Health Authority

Driving permit

To drive in Canada, you'll need both:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• a valid Australian licence

Get an IDP before you leave Australia.

You can drive for up to one year with an IDP and your Australian licence. After that, you'll need a local driver's licence.

Road travel

Heavy snowfalls, freezing rain and icy conditions make driving dangerous in winter. Car accidents happen more frequently in these conditions.

If you plan to drive in Canada:

• learn local traffic laws
• check weather
• check road conditions
• use snow tyres, which are compulsory in many provinces
• carry water, food and blankets
• drive to conditions
• don't drink and drive

Traffic laws can differ between provinces, but across Canada:

• seat belts are compulsory for everyone
• children under 40lb (18kg) must use child car seats

More information:

• Canadian Automobile Association
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

You need a motorcycle licence to operate a motorcycle in Canada.

Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike, ATV or similar vehicle, and always wear a helmet and make sure your passenger does too.

Taxis

Taxis are a safe mode of transport.

Ride-sharing options are widely available.

Use the same safety precautions you would in Australia.

Sea travel

Many international cruise liners visit Canada.

More information:

• Going on a cruise

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Canada's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Travel to the Arctic

The Arctic is vast and remote.

Access to search and rescue, evacuation, and medical facilities may be limited. It can take several days for emergency help to arrive, especially in bad weather.

For your safety, before you book travel by ship:

• assess the on-board medical facilities
• consider any pre-existing medical conditions
• talk to cruise operators about medical arrangements
• find travel insurance that covers evacuation, medical treatment and the cost of returning home.

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 911.

Medical emergencies

Call 911.

Police

Call 911.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Australian High Commission, Ottawa

Contact the Australian High Commission in Ottawa if you're in:

• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Nova Scotia
• Ontario (excluding the south-western corner below Kingston)
• Prince Edward Island
• Quebec
• Bermuda

Australian High Commission, Ottawa
Suite 1301, 50 O'Connor Street 
Ottawa, Ontario K1P 6L2 CANADA 
Phone: +1 613 236 0841 
Fax: +1 613 786 7621 
Email: consular.ottawa@dfat.gov.au 
Website: canada.highcommission.gov.au 
Facebook: Australia in Canada
Twitter: @AusHCCanada

Australian Consulate-General, Toronto

Contact the Australian Consulate-General in Toronto if you're in the Greater Toronto Area (the south-western corner of Ontario below Kingston).

Australian Consulate General, Toronto 
Suite 1100, South Tower 
175 Bloor Street East 
Toronto, Ontario M4W 3R8 CANADA 
Phone: +1 416 323 4280 
Fax: +1 416 323 4295

Australian Consulate, Vancouver

Contact the Australian Consulate, Vancouver if you're in:

• Alberta
• British Columbia
• Manitoba
• Northwest Territories
• Nunavut
• Saskatchewan
• Yukon Territory

Australian Consulate, Vancouver
Suite 2050, 1075 West Georgia Street
Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 3C9 CANADA 
Phone: +1 604 694 6160 
Fax: +1 604 684 1856

If you need other consular help:

• check the High Commission website for opening hours and any temporary closures at each office
• book appointments for passports and consular services in Canada by calling the Australian High Commission in Ottawa, Australian Consulate General Toronto or Australian Consulate in Vancouver.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia