Find out about visa requirements for Canada, including working visas and border crossing from the United States.
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Note: Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the land border between the US and Canada was closed on March 21, 2020, and will remain closed to non-essential travel until at least November 21. Most foreign nationals are currently banned from entry to Canada. Read our travel alert for more information.
Many travelers visiting Canada require a visa, and requirements vary depending on several factors, including nationality and purpose of visit. Find out about visa requirements for Canada, including working visas and border crossing from the United States.
Canada is a vast country, the second largest in the world, but it shares a border with only one other country: the United States. Visitors from the US can cross at many points along the world’s longest unguarded border, and from the state of Alaska as well. Most other visitors fly in, or come on a cruise ship to ports on either coast –most notably Vancouver and Halifax.
Visa requirements for Canada
To find out if you need a visa for Canada, the Canadian government has provided this handy, interactive service.
You simply select the country code that matches the one on your passport indicating your nationality, and press GO.
On the next page, depending on your nationality and your mode of transportation, you will find out the documents you need. Many foreign nationals flying into Canada now need to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). You can apply with a valid passport, a credit or a debit card, and an email address.
Working visas
Many people around the world would love to work and live in Canada! Working visas are available, including a program for youth called International Experience Canada (IEC).
You can get all the information you need on eligibility and other requirements here.
Border crossings
You don’t need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to cross the border into Canada from the U.S. if you are driving. You will need a passport, and a visa depending on your nationality.
To drive in Canada, you need a valid driver’s license. You can find all the rules here.
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