Canada travel guide for Americans

US citizens do not need a visa or an eTA to enter Canada for tourism or business visits of up to 180 days. You only need a valid US passport. Border officers can still deny entry if you have a criminal record, overstay history, or if they suspect you plan to work without authorisation.

US citizens enter Canada with a valid US passport. No visa or eTA is required for visits up to 180 days. You must convince the border officer that you are visiting temporarily, have enough money for your stay, and will leave at the end.

If you have a criminal record (including DUIs), you may be inadmissible and need special permission. Always carry your passport, even when driving across the land border; a driver’s licence alone is not enough.

For stays over 180 days, or for work or study, apply for the appropriate visa or permit before travel.

The US Embassy is in Ottawa. Consulates are located in Toronto, Vancouver, Montréal, Calgary, Halifax and Québec City. They provide passport services, notary services and emergency assistance for US citizens.

Budget roughly CAD 120–180 per day for a mid‑range trip (≈ USD 90–135), including accommodation, meals and local transport. A comfortable trip with nicer hotels and activities runs CAD 180–300 per day (≈ USD 135–225). Prices are higher in summer and in major cities.

Direct flights connect most US hubs to Toronto, Vancouver, Montréal, Calgary and Ottawa. Typical flight times are about 1.5 h from New York to Toronto and about 3 h from Los Angeles to Vancouver. Verify schedules with airlines.

Canada uses the same plugs and voltage as the US: types A and B, 120 V 60 Hz. US devices work without an adapter or converter.

Tipping is expected. At restaurants and bars, leave 15–20 % before tax. For taxis, 10–15 %. Tip hotel staff and tour guides if service was good.

Dial 911 for police, fire or medical emergencies anywhere in Canada. For non‑emergency health advice, many provinces use 811, but availability varies.