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What to Expect at the Canadian Border as a Visitor

We may not be in summer anymore, but Canada is a wonderful tourist destination year-round!

As you're packing your bags and getting ready to arrive in Canada, here are a few things you'll typically expect at the border.

When you arrive at the port of entry, the border services officer may allow you to stay for less or up to 6 months. If so, they will put the date you need to leave by in your passport. They may also give you a visitor record, which will show the date you need to leave by.

If you don’t get a stamp in your passport, you can stay for 6 months from the day you entered Canada or until your passport expires, whichever comes first!


Documents you will need at the border

  • Valid Passport

  • Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an eTA (if required).

  • Letter of Invitation

  • Proof of Funds

  • Detailed itinerary of your activities in Canada

  • Return ticket

  • Letter of consent (if traveling with minors)

We'd Like to Add a Few Notes...

  • Ensure you know the address of the person you're coming to visit or where you plan to stay

  • Make sure you have enough funds to cover your stay in Canada.

  • Be very clear about your purpose of visit and also be able to answer questions about your plans in Canada.

  • Use the ArriveCAN app to provide mandatory travel information before and after your entry into Canada.

  • Keep in mind that you will have to declare money over $10k if you brought it with you and if you packed food, check the Inspections Canada website to ensure it can be brought into the country!

Enjoy your Visit!

Regardless of the time of year, bring warm clothing! Even in late summer, it gets pretty chilly in the evenings.

Are you planning a trip to Canada? If you would like some clarity on the requirements needed for a strong and convincing application, book our Visiting Visa Consultation with one of our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants!

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