U.S. Embassy Ottawa

490 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, Ontario
K1N 1G8
Telephone: +1 (613) 688-5335
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 
Fax: +1 (613) 688-3082
Email: Canada.ACS@gdit-gss.com

The Ottawa consular district includes the counties of Kingston, Lanark, Leeds, Prescott, Refrew, Russell, and Stormont in Eastern Ontario, and those parts of the Québec regions of Outaouais and Abitibi-Témiscamingue near Ottawa.

CONSULATES

U.S. Consulate General Montreal

1134 Rue Sainte-Catherine Street West
Suite 100
Montreal, Québec H3B 1H4
Canada
Telephone: +1 (514) 398-9695
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +1 (416) 645-9124
Fax: +1 (514) 398-9748
Email: Canada.ACS@gdit-gss.com

The Montreal consular district includes Greater Montreal and the regions of Southern Quebec Province (Laurentides, Lanaudiere, Laval, Montreal, Montregie, Estrie, and the southern parts of Centre-du-Quebec), including Joliete, Drummondville, and Sherbrooke.

U.S. Consulate General Toronto

360 University Ave
Toronto, Ontario M5G 1S4
Canada
Telephone: +1 (416) 595-1700
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +1 (416) 201-4056
Fax: +1 (416) 595-5466
Email: Canada.ACS@gdit-gss.com

The consular district includes the province of Ontario except for the counties of Kingston, Lanark, Leeds, Prescott, Refrew, Russell, and Stormont, which are served by the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa.

U.S. Consulate General Vancouver

1075 West Pender Street
Vancouver, British Columbia
V6E 2M6
Canada
Telephone: +1 (604) 685-4311
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +1 (604) 685-4311
Fax: +1 (604) 685-7175
Email: Canada.ACS@gdit-gss.com

The consular district includes British Columbia and the Yukon Territory.

U.S. Consulate General Halifax

1969 Upper Water Street
Suite 904, Purdy’s Wharf
Tower II
B3J 3R7
Telephone: 902-812-0049
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +1 (902) 429-2480, Press 1
Email: Halifax-ACS@state.gov

The Halifax consular district includes New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and the French islands of Saint Pierre and Miquelon.

U.S. Consulate Winnipeg

201 Portage Avenue, Suite 860
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3B 3K6
Canada
Telephone: +1 (204) 940-1800
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +1 (403) 266-8962 and press "0" for assistance (Consulate General Calgary)
Fax: +1 (204) 940-1809

The Consulate in Winnipeg provides only emergency services for U.S. citizens. Routine services such as visas, passports and notarials are handled at other U.S. Consulates General, primarily Calgary.

U.S. Consulate General Quebec 
2, rue de la Terrasse Dufferin
(Vieux Quebec, behind Chateau Frontenac)
Quebec, Quebec G1R 4T9
Canada
Telephone: +1 (418) 692-2095
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +1 (418) 692-2096
Fax: +1 (418) 692-4640
Email: Canada.ACS@gdit-gss.com

The consular district includes Quebec City and those regions of Quebec Province to the North and East of the Montreal and Ottawa Districts (indicated above) – to include the area around Saguenay/Lac Saint-Jean, Rimouski and the Gaspé Peninsula – as well as the Territory of Nunavut.

U.S. Consulate General Calgary
615 Macleod Trail S.E., 10th Floor
Calgary, Alberta 
T2G 4T8, Canada
Telephone: +1 (403) 266-8962
Fax: +1 (403) 264-6630
Email: Canada.ACS@gdit-gss.comThe consular district includes Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories, excluding Nunavut.

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Helpful resources

Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
NEXUS trusted traveler program
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
CBP ROAM app (boaters report offsite arrival)
Dual Nationality
Prevention of International Child Abduction
Customs Regulations

Visas

• U.S. citizens do not need a tourist visa to visit Canada for less than 180 days.
• Visits longer than 180 days generally require a visa.
• Review visa information from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

Entry and exit procedures

• Canadian law requires everyone entering the country to show proof of citizenship and identity.
• Both U.S. and Canadian governments urge frequent travelers to join the NEXUS trusted traveler program.
• U.S. citizens can use a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card to enter

Entry into the U.S. from Canada

• If you are flying into the U.S. from Canada, you must show a U.S. passport book or another approved ID.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provides an approved list of documents.

Traveling with minors

• If you are traveling with a minor without having full custody, the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) requires a letter of authorization from the child’s parents or    guardian(s).
• Review the CBSA traveling with minors information for details.

Entry and exit by boat to Canada

• If you bring a private boat into Canada, you must report to the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA).
• You can report your return to the U.S. or apply for a boater program through the CBP Reporting Offsite Arrival Mobile (CBP ROAM) app.

HIV/AIDS entry restrictions
The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Canada. Review the information about restrictions for HIV-positive residents from IRCC

Emergency phone number

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

Dial 911 for all emergencies in Canada.

Contact the U.S. Mission to Canada at here to report emergencies.

Crime
Petty theft sometimes occurs.   

• Thieves often target parked cars in big cities or tourist spots. Avoid leaving items in your car or trunk to prevent “smash and grab” thefts.
• Car thefts are increasing in some cities.
  • Avoid parking on the street or in unmonitored parking lots.
  • Consider a remote monitoring service or wheel locks.
  • If your car is stolen, contact the police and do not attempt to locate the car yourself.
• Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver have strict parking laws. They may fine you for unlocked doors or visible valuables.
• Pickpockets may target you in busy tourist areas. Stay alert and protect your belongings.

Demonstrations
Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays and during international events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have rarely been violent in Canada.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Scams
Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information.

Technology Usage Abroad
Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network (VPN) and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.

Victims of crimes

Dial 911 (the Canadian emergency number) to report crimes to the local police.

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Mission for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at 911 and contact the U.S. Mission to Canada here, after calling local authorities. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

Review our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care.
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion.
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the U.S. and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic violence

Dial 911 (the Canadian emergency number) to report crimes to the local police.

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Mission to Canada here for assistance, after calling local authorities.

Tourism safety
The tourism industry is generally regulated.

• Rules with regards to general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• Appropriate medical treatment is widely available for injuries.
• If someone gets hurt, they can usually get medical help anywhere in the country
• In smaller cities, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and assist.
• The Arctic territories are remote, and responders may be delayed due to isolation and harsh conditions. Plan for delays if you are traveling to these areas.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. 

Criminal penalties
You are subject to local laws.

• If you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison.
• If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start.
• Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law.
• For examples, review our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest notification
If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Mission to Canada immediately by calling 613-238-5335. Review our webpage for further information.

Drugs and controlled substances
Canadian law bans the possession and sale of drugs, including some that are legal in some U.S. states.

• Recreational cannabis is legal in Canada. However, you cannot take it across Canada’s border.
• Drug smuggling can lead to large fines, a permanent ban from Canada, and jail time.

Counterfeit and pirated goods
Counterfeit and pirated goods are illegal in Canada.

• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States.
• You could be fined or asked to turn them over to authorities.
• Review the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Firearms
You must follow Canadian gun laws while in Canada.

• Breaking these laws can lead to jail time.
• When traveling with firearms or ammunition, you must declare them in writing.
• Canadian officials have authority to take away undeclared firearms, ammunition and other weapons.
• Officials will not return confiscated firearms, ammunition or weapons.

You must declare firearms and ammunition in writing using Canadian Firearms Program forms:

• Complete the Non-Resident Firearm Declaration form 3 times (making copies is not possible). The CBSA officer at the border must witness form completion.
• Get a Temporary Firearms Borrowing License if you plan to borrow or use a firearm.

Pornography

• Canada has strict laws against child pornography.
• Canadian border officials may search your electronic devices without a warrant.
• Illegal content can result in the seizure of the device. You can be detained, arrested and prosecuted.

Tax issues
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) resources available for U.S. Federal tax issues:

• International Taxpayers
• Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) Reporting Requirements
• Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA)
• Voluntary Disclosure Practice

Gay and lesbian travelers
There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of events in Canada.

• Review our Gay and Lesbian Traveler Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Faith-based travelers
Review the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports

International Volunteers:

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Travelers with disabilities
The law in Canada prohibits discrimination against persons with physical or mental disabilities.

• The law is enforced.
• Learn more from the Accessibility Standards Canada.
• Review our Travelers with Disabilities page.

Students
Review our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips for U.S. students.

Women travelers
Review our travel tips for Women Travelers.

Health resources

Canada Traveler Health Information
Medical Tourism information
NASA’s Air Quality Forecast
Insurance Coverage Overseas
Canada Health Information

Emergency number

Dial 911 for all emergencies

Ambulance services
Ambulance services are widely available in Canada.

Healthcare in Canada
Medical care in Canada is of high quality; it is managed by the government.

• Canada has high standards for public health and sanitation.
• There are good healthcare facilities throughout the country.
• Temporary visitors who are not part of a Canadian province’s healthcare plan may find it hard to get ongoing care.
• Many doctors are not accepting new patients. Seeing a specialist requires a referral, which can take months.
• While trauma care is excellent, emergency room waits for non-life-threatening issues can be very long.
• American patients without Canadian health insurance frequently travel back to the United States for medical care.
• In Quebec, some healthcare professionals may only speak French.

Review our Health Abroad page for more information.

• Check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Traveler Advice for Canada.
  • Review all sub-sections. These include Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.
• We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health page. CDC Traveler Advice provides advice on medical considerations including:
  • Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
  • Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)
  • General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

Medical payments and insurance

• The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills.
• The Canadian public health care system does not offer free treatment to non-Canadians.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid are accepted abroad only in very limited circumstances.
• Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas for reimbursement of payments.
• Review our Insurance Overseas page for more information on insurance providers with overseas coverage.
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travel Insurance page for more information on types of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. If you are traveling to remote areas like the Arctic, make sure your health insurance includes air ambulance services.

Prescription drugs

• Confirm that your medication is legal according to the government of Canada.
• Take your prescription medication in the original pharmacy labeled packaging.
• Bring a copy of your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations

Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization Travel advice page
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health page

Air quality

 Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses AI, historical data, and global pollution models to create a 3-day air quality forecast for Canada.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the “Your Health Abroad” page.

Medical tourism and elective surgey

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.

Pharmaceuticals

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas.
• You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration have rules for bringing medication back to the United States.

• Medication bought abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back.
• The medication must be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.
• Visit the websites of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration for more information.

Assisted reproductive technology and surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Canada to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page.

Helpful resources

Driving and Road Safety Abroad
Canadian Automobile Association (CAA)
Transport Canada

Road conditions and safety

• Vehicle warranties from the U.S. may not be valid in Canada.
• Winter travel can be dangerous due to heavy snow and icy roads. Some provinces require snow tires. The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) provides winter driving tips.
• Winter weather and wildfires can sometimes cause highways to close suddenly. Provincial transport ministries usually post road closures and alerts on their websites.
• The CAA honors American Automobile Association (AAA) memberships.
• Transport Canada and CAA provide detailed information on road conditions throughout Canada.

Traffic laws

In Canada distances and speeds are in kilometers per hour.

• Some road signs, especially in Québec, are only in French.
• U.S. driver’s licenses are valid for visitors, and proof of auto insurance is required.
• U.S. auto insurance is accepted for tourists.
• Some provinces require headlights to be on during the day, others have banned cell phone use while driving.
• Motorcycles cannot share lanes, and helmets are required for riders and passengers.
• Radar detectors are illegal in Québec, Ontario, Manitoba, the Yukon, and the Northwest Territories, even if not used. Police can take them and issue fines.
• Be prepared for traffic backups near U.S. border crossings.

Public transportation

Public transportation is available in all cities and most major towns across Canada.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Canada’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.    

Maritime travel

Mariners planning travel to Canada should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warning website.

Weather

Seasons

Canadian winters can be harsh.

• Temperatures are cold in the south and extremely cold in the north.
• Cyclonic storms east of the Rockies form when cold air from the Arctic, moist air from the Pacific, and dry air from the interior mix. These storms bring most of the country's rain and snow.

Natural disasters

Wildfires are common. They disrupt travel and cause poor air quality warnings, particularly in the Western portions of Canada. The most active wildfire period is from May through September.

U.S Citizens living abroad

If you live abroad for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events.

• Learn how to prepare for life events like voting, getting married, or the birth of a child.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare or insurance abroad
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.

Fact Sheet

Please see the U.S. Department of State Fact Sheet for Canada.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• Follow us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
• See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA)

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Canada. For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA) report.