canadian travel europe

ETIAS Canada

The european travel authorisation for canadian citizens.

Starting 2025, Canadians will need to register online before travelling to Europe. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a new system for visa-exempt non-EU visitors. This includes Canadians.

The European travel authorisation is a new entry requirement for Canadians travelling for tourism, business, and short-term study. It’s quick and easy to apply for ETIAS online.

Get ready for the introduction of the ETIAS for Canadians with etias.ca.

Do Canadians need a visa for Europe?

Canadians do not need a visa to travel to Europe short term. With your Canadian passport, you can travel to Europe visa-free and stay for up to 90 days for tourism, business, or short-term study.

From 2025, Canadians will need to register with ETIAS to enter the Schengen Area , and Cyprus without a visa. Visa-free entry will only be permitted with a valid ETIAS.

European travel visa for long stays for Canadians

Canadians must apply for a visa for Europe to stay more than 3 months . A visa is also required to travel for purposes other than business, tourism, or transit.

To stay long-term, you need to apply for the relevant national visa for your European destination.

Do Canadian residents need a tourist visa for Europe?

European entry requirements for Canadians and other non-EU citizens depend on nationality. Whether a Canadian permanent resident needs a visa for Europe is determined by the country that issued their passport.

Citizens of more than 50 countries can travel to Europe without a visa and will be eligible for ETIAS.

What is ETIAS for Canadians?

ETIAS is a new travel permit for Europe. The ETIAS for Canadian citizens is not a visa . It’s an electronic travel authorisation for visa-exempt visitors from outside the EU.

ETIAS secures EU borders by pre-screening travellers before they arrive in Europe. The system helps detect potential security or migration risks presented by visa-exempt visitors.

By registering Canadians and other non-EU passport holders entering European countries , ETIAS also improves European border management.

ETIAS is similar to the Canadian eTA that foreign visitors need to enter visa-free.

How ETIAS for Canadian citizens works

ETIAS for Canadian citizens works by cross-referencing applicants' information with various security databases.

When Canadian passport holders apply for ETIAS , your personal details, travel information, and answers to security questions are checked against databases like the Schengen Information System (SIS), Interpol databases, and Europol data , among others.

This process helps in identifying any potential security, irregular migration, or high epidemic risks.

Most applications are approved following automatic processing. If a potential risk is detected, the application is reviewed manually by the responsible ETIAS National Unit.

ETIAS improves the traveller experience

ETIAS improves the way Canadians travel to Europe . As a tourist, you can enjoy greater peace of mind knowing that other travellers have also undergone ETIAS security checks.

The European travel authorisation for Europe also makes border processes more efficient. Immigration procedures are expected to be faster— security checks are carried out in advance, rather than at the border .

Despite being an additional step Canadians need to take when visiting Europe , ETIAS registration improves the overall traveller experience.

The ETIAS structure

Here’s are some of the groups responsible for the functioning of ETIAS:

• ETIAS Central Unit: checks that the data stored in the application file and the personal data recorded in the ETIAS system is correct and up to date. It defines, evaluates, tests and reviews specific indicators of the ETIAS screening rules
• ETIAS National Units: responsible for assessing travel authorisation applications referred to them from the automatic process. They can issue an opinion if consulted by other member States’ ETIAS National Units
• Europol: will establish and manage the ETIAS watchlist. ETIAS National Units will be able for consultation
• EU-LISA: responsible for developing and operating the ETIAS information system
• ETIAS Screening Board: this is an advisory team that will be made up of representatives from ETIAS National Units and Europol. The board can be consulted for the definition, evaluation, and revision of risk indicators
• European Border and Coast Guard Agency: they ensure the creation and management of an ETIAS Central Unit

European ETIAS destinations for Canadians

As a Canadian citizen, you’ll soon require ETIAS to travel to the following countries:

Key information about the travel permit for Europe

Canadians can continue to enjoy visa-free entry to Europe with ETIAS. Here are the most important facts you need to know about the ETIAS permit to travel to Europe .

* Canadians need the EU ETIAS to transit if they leave the international transit area of the airport.

Travelling from Canada to Europe with ETIAS

Canadians must have an approved and valid ETIAS to travel to countries in the Schengen Area.

When your ETIAS is approved, it’s linked to the Canadian passport you used to apply. You do not need to carry additional documents with you when travelling to Europe — ETIAS is automatically verified during passport checks.

ETIAS does not guarantee entry to European countries . Border checks are carried out and, passengers who do not meet the entry conditions will be denied entry.

It’s important that you apply for ETIAS and travel to Europe using the same passport. If you replace your passport for any reason, you need to apply for a new ETIAS.

Canadians need ETIAS to travel to Europe by air, land, or sea .

Moving around the Schengen Area with ETIAS as a Canadian citizen

You need ETIAS to cross an external Schengen border, for example when travelling from Canada to France.

Once you’ve entered the Schengen zone, you will not face further border checks—there are no internal borders in the travel zone. You should, however, carry your passport with attached ETIAS with you as you travel around.

Visit Spain, Italy, Germany, and other top tourist destinations in Europe with one permit.

Understanding the 90/180 rule for Canadians in Europe

To avoid overstaying in Europe, you need to understand the 90/180 rule.

90-day allowance

You can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This doesn't have to be a continuous stay.

You can enter and leave the Schengen Area as often as you like, but the total number of days spent in the area must not exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.

Rolling 180-day window

The 180-day period is a rolling window. It’s always counted backwards from the current day.

For example, if you're planning to enter the Schengen Area on December 1st, you'll look back 180 days from December 1st to see how many days you've already been in the Schengen Area during that period.

Count your days

To stay compliant with the rule, keep track of your travel days. Every day you are in the Schengen Area counts towards the 90-day limit, including the day you arrive and the day you depart.

No reset by leaving

You can't reset the 90-day count by leaving the Schengen Area for a short period and then returning. The count of 90 days is cumulative within the 180-day window.

Related Posts

How will Brexit and ETIAS affect Canadians travelling to the UK and EU?

ETIAS and the Schengen visa: what is the difference?

Dual citizenship and ETIAS: how will it work for Canadians with multiple passports?

Canadians travelling to Europe will need a permit to enter some countries

2024 update: The EITAS program was delayed in October 2023. According to a news release, it is now expected to come into effect in 2025.

Canadians eyeing a trip to certain European countries next year will need to obtain a permit first.

Starting in 2024, Canadian travellers seeking a short-term visit to 30 countries including France, Switzerland, Spain and Greece must apply to the European Travel Information and Authorisation System.

The permit costs 7 euros, or about $10.25, and can be obtained on the ETIAS website or mobile app.

• Top business headlines, all in one place
• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

It allows travellers to visit for up to 90 days within any 180-day period and is valid for three years, or until the passport used in the application expires.

In addition to Canada, the new rules will apply to nearly 60 countries including the United States, Mexico, United Kingdom, Australia and Japan.

Travellers younger than 18 and older than 70 years are exempt from payment, as are family members of EU citizens or of non-EU nationals who can move freely in the European Union.

The official website of the European Union urges would-be visitors to apply for authorization well in advance of a planned trip, and before booking a plane ticket or hotel.

Canadian travellers to most of Europe are currently exempt from needing a visa and only require a valid passport for short stays.

European countries requiring ETIAS also include Belgium, Croatia, Finland, Germany, Portugal, Romania and Slovenia.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 26, 2023.

CTVNews.ca Top Stories

Air quality alerts issued as wildfire smoke spreads east from Western Canada

Wildfires have led Environment Canada to issue air quality advisories for parts of B.C., Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories, as forecasters warn the smoke could drift farther east.

Steal a car, lose your driver's licence under new Ontario proposal

Repeat car thieves may face lengthy licence bans under proposed changes to Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act.

Ellen DeGeneres addresses the 'hurtful' end of her talk show in new stand-up set

Ellen DeGeneres is reflecting on how her talk show came to an end in her newest Netflix special, 'Ellen's Last Stand ... Up Tour.'

When you have a moment's notice to evacuate, what do you take?

Knowing what to have at home, or take with you for an evacuation, can be useful and even life-saving.

LIVE UPDATES | Star witness returning to the stand for more testimony at Trump's at hush money trial

Donald Trump’s fixer-turned-foe returns to the witness stand Tuesday for a bruising round of questioning from the former president’s lawyers.

B.C. brings in law on name changes on day that child killer's new identity revealed

The BC NDP have tabled legislation aimed at stopping people who have committed certain heinous acts from changing their names.

Regulated area for invasive box tree moth expanded to parts of the Maritimes

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has added much of the Maritimes to a regulated area for an invasive species.

Already expensive, planning for fertility treatment difficult as costs vary widely

Being unable to have a child naturally can be extremely difficult. But when you factor in the high costs of fertility treatments, the range of individual circumstances and the fact that the industry itself is secretive about fees, it can make the whole ordeal even more devastating and hard to plan for.

A healthy lifestyle can mitigate genetic risk for early death by 62%, study suggests

Even if your genetics put you at greater risk for early death, a healthy lifestyle could help you significantly combat it, according to a new study.

Wildfire burning near Fort Nelson, B.C., continues to rapidly grow

The wildfire burning near Fort Nelson continues to grow rapidly.

Sex assault case of former Canada world junior hockey players back in court today

The sexual assault case of five former members of Canada's world junior hockey team is due back in a London, Ont., court today.

Trial of Winnipeg serial killer expected to hear testimony from DNA expert

The Winnipeg trial of admitted serial killer Jeremy Skibicki is expected to continue today with testimony from a DNA expert.

McGill University encampment: judge expected to deliver injunction decision Tuesday

Pro-Palestinian protesters at McGill University have become 'occupiers' living in a fortified and barricaded mini-village, a lawyer for the Montreal school argued on Monday as he asked for an injunction to dismantle the more than two-week-old encampment on its downtown campus.

Curbing domestic violence takes staff, and there aren't enough, says N.L. director

As Newfoundland and Labrador's justice minister exchanges letters with his federal counterpart about legal reforms that would curb intimate partner violence, the head of a women's centre in the province says what's needed is much simpler: money.

Risks of handcuffing someone facedown long known; people die when police training fails to keep up

For decades, police across the United States have been warned that the common tactic of handcuffing someone facedown could turn deadly if officers pin them on the ground with too much pressure or for too long.

Ukraine reels from a new Russian offensive; Blinken says U.S. arms will make a difference

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday that American military aid on its way to Ukraine will make a 'real difference' on the battlefield, as the top diplomat made an unannounced visit to reassure an ally facing a fierce new Russian offensive.

Israeli airstrikes kill 40 people overnight at two locations in central Gaza, hospitals say

Hospitals in central Gaza have reported that 40 people were killed in two Israeli airstrikes overnight within a few hundred meters of each other.

3 men charged in Whitey Bulger's 2018 prison killing have plea deals, prosecutors say

Three men charged in the 2018 prison killing of notorious Boston gangster James 'Whitey' Bulger have reached plea deals with prosecutors, according to court papers filed Monday.

Mississippi governor signs law restricting transgender people's use of bathrooms and locker rooms

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves has signed a new law regulating transgender people's use of bathrooms, locker rooms and dormitories in public education buildings, making Mississippi at least the 12th state to restrict transgender students from using facilities that align with their gender identity.

Georgian parliament approves divisive 'foreign influence' bill that sparked weeks of mass protests

The Georgian parliament on Tuesday approved in the third and final reading a divisive bill that sparked weeks of mass protests, with critics seeing it as a threat to democratic freedoms and the country's aspirations to join the European Union.

Philippines seeking Canada's help to avoid 'great power rivalry' between China, U.S.

The foreign minister of the Philippines wants closer business and military ties with Canada, saying the two countries can help maintain the post-war order in the Indo-Pacific by maintaining peaceful relations with both the U.S. and China.

Canada should address AI's impact on worker rights, privacy: parliamentary report

Artificial intelligence will have an impact on the Canadian labour force, a parliamentary committee recently heard, and MPs are suggesting ways the federal government can better prepare.

Criminal trial of 'Freedom Convoy' organizer Pat King begins with not guilty plea

As his criminal trial got underway Monday, 'Freedom Convoy' organizer Pat King pleaded not guilty to a list of nine charges related to the major protest that paralyzed downtown Ottawa in 2022.

'A significant increase:' Lice removal companies say they are seeing a surge in infestations

After nearly 15 years in business, Shawnda Walker said the past 12 months has been the busiest year yet for her North York head lice removal company.

Sunchips, Munchies recalled by Frito Lay Canada for possible salmonella contamination

Frito Lay Canada is recalling two of its most popular snacks due to a possible risk of salmonella contamination.

China, U.S. envoys will hold first top-level dialogue on artificial intelligence in Geneva

High-level envoys from the United States and China are set to meet in Geneva on Tuesday for talks about artificial intelligence.

OpenAI unveils newest AI model, GPT-4o

OpenAI on Monday announced its latest artificial intelligence large language model that it says will be easier and more intuitive to use.

Trudeau points to fire fight, says Meta news ban degrades safety as it makes billions

Justin Trudeau says Meta is making billions off people, but taking no responsibility for the well-being of communities they profit from.

Entertainment

Here's the lineup for the Canada Day Evening Show in Ottawa

Maestro Fresh Wes, Metric, Neon Dreams, Sara Dufour and Willows will perform on Canada Day in Ottawa.

No, these best-selling authors didn't pen a romance novel about Loblaw chairman Galen Weston

You would be forgiven for thinking Christina Lauren's latest romance novel stars a hunky reimagining of Loblaw chairman Galen G. Weston.

B.C. man fighting for refund after finding someone living at Whistler vacation rental

Edwin Mostered spent thousands of dollars booking a vacation home in Whistler, B.C., for a group skiing trip earlier this year – or so he thought.

Mortgage companies could intensify the next recession, U.S. officials warn

U.S. officials worry the next recession could be intensified by a cascading series of failures in the mortgage industry caused by crashing home prices, frozen financial markets and soaring delinquencies.

Construction on CN Rail hub in GTA can continue — for now: judge

The Federal Court of Appeal says work on a massive rail-and-truck hub in the Greater Toronto Area can go ahead — for the time being, as the future of the facility remains in limbo.

At Westminster dog show, a display of dogs and devotion

The 148th Westminster show kicked off Saturday, and Monday marked the start of the traditional judging that leads to the best in show prize, to be awarded Tuesday night.

If your soil's no good or you don't have any, grow your garden plants in straw bales

f you’d like to install a raised bed but don’t have the resources to build one, you can achieve the same effect by growing your plants in straw bales. It’s also a great option for those with poor soil or who don’t have a patch of dirt to call their own.

opinion | How to use your credit card as a powerful wealth-building tool

Irresponsibly using a credit card can land you in financial trouble, but personal finance columnist Christopher Liew says when used properly, it can be a powerful wealth-building tool that can help grow your credit profile and create new opportunities.

Avs forward Valeri Nichushkin suspended at least six months

Colorado Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin was suspended for at least six months without pay and placed in Stage 3 of the league's player assistance program.

Skinner under scrutiny as Oilers search for spark against Canucks

Stuart Skinner, the Oilers' starting goalie all season and for each of their eight post-season games this year, allowed all four goals scored against his team Sunday night, some of them arguably his fault.

Amazon's self-driving robotaxi unit Zoox under investigation by U.S. after 2 rear-end crashes

Amazon's self-driving robotaxi unit is being investigated by the U.S. government's highway safety agency after two of its vehicles braked suddenly and were rear-ended by motorcyclists.

Small, well-built Chinese EV called the Seagull poses a big threat to the U.S. auto industry

A tiny, low-priced electric car called the Seagull has American automakers and politicians trembling.

Local Spotlight

Thieves caught on camera stealing pet chicken from North Vancouver backyard

A $200 reward is being offered by a North Vancouver family for the safe return of their beloved chicken, Snowflake.

Adopted daughter in the Netherlands reunited with sister in Montreal and mother in Colombia, 40 years later

Two daughters and a mother were reunited online 40 years later thanks to a DNA kit and a Zoom connection despite living on three separate continents and speaking different languages.

'Reimagining Mother's Day': Toronto woman creates Motherless Day event after losing mom

Mother's Day can be a difficult occasion for those who have lost or are estranged from their mom.

Chris Hadfield inspires youth musical in Sudbury

YES Theatre Young Company opened its acclaimed kids’ show, One Small Step, at Sudbury Theatre Centre on Saturday.

Ottawa pizzeria places among top 20 deep-dish pizzas in the world at international competition

An Ottawa pizzeria is being recognized as one of the top 20 deep-dish pizzas in the world.

From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field

A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.

Wilfrid Laurier football player drafted despite only playing 27 games in his entire life

A Listowel, Ont. man, drafted by the Hamilton Tigercats last week, is also getting looks from the NFL, despite only playing 27 games of football in his life.

Federal government bans watercraft from Manitoba lake popular with tourists

The threat of zebra mussels has prompted the federal government to temporarily ban watercraft from a Manitoba lake popular with tourists.

Toronto-area dessert shop featured by Keith Lee forced to move after zoning complaint

A small Ajax dessert shop that recently received a glowing review from celebrity food critic Keith Lee is being forced to move after a zoning complaint was made following the social media influencer’s visit last month.

'We'll look after you': Locals feeding, housing Fort Nelson evacuees

With thousands evacuating Fort Nelson due to a wildfire encroaching on the town, nearby communities are opening their doors to those who’ve had their lives turned upside down in a matter of moments.

GARDINER GRIDLOCK | 'It's just been a nightmare': Gardiner restrictions are Toronto's traffic tipping point

In the first of a three-part series on Gardiner Gridlock, CTV Toronto examines the impact that the three-year cut to capacity on the downtown expressway is having on commuters – and their outcry.

Teen stabbed behind northwest Calgary high school, rushed to hospital with serious arm injury

A teenage boy was stabbed late Monday afternoon near John G. Diefenbaker High School in Calgary's northwest.

WEATHER | Westerly flow will offer reprieve in wildfire smoke

Showers will continue in southern Alberta in the morning Tuesday and there is a chance non-severe thunderstorms will develop in southeastern Alberta throughout the day.

Man seriously injured in crash near Okotoks dies in hospital

A man who was seriously injured in a crash near Okotoks almost two weeks ago has died.

Child dies after being struck by a school bus in Rockland, Ont.

An 11-year-old child has died after being struck by a school bus while bicycling in Rockland, Ont., according to police.

Israeli flag-raising ceremony in Ottawa will be private affair

The Israeli flag is flying at Ottawa City Hall today to mark the country's national day, with plans to hold a private ceremony to mark Israel's Independence Day. There is a significant police presence at City Hall, including security barriers outside the main doors.

6 Ottawa restaurants ranked among Canada's 100 best

Six Ottawa restaurants are on the list of Canada's 100 Best Restaurants. The annual list of Canada's 100 Best Restaurants was released Monday evening, with Montreal wine bar Mon Lapin named the top restaurant for the second straight year.

Montreal businesses apologize after video shows man throw water on sleeping homeless person

Two Montreal businesses are apologizing after a video circulating on social media showed a man throwing water on a homeless person sleeping outside of a Chinatown storefront.

New modular ER opening at Lakeshore General Hospital

The Lakeshore General Hospital in Montreal's West Island announced it will be opening a temporary emergency room while major renovations get underway.

Man's death in fight ruled homicide after autopsy

The death of a man in a central Edmonton fight is being investigated as a homicide.

Wanted (desperately): Secondary scoring by Oilers forwards

Can a National Hockey League coach play his top forwards half the game?

Alberta to investigate police crackdown on pro-Palestinian campus protests

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says her government will ask the province’s police watchdog to investigate how officers forcibly cleared out two pro-Palestinian protests on university campuses.

TLC cancels Moncton concert after tour members, including lead singer, fall ill

TLC fans looking forward to their concert in Moncton, N.B., on Tuesday will be disappointed to find out that the show has been cancelled due to illness.

Halifax restaurant named one of the best in Canada

A Halifax restaurant has been named as one of the best in the country.

'Never seen a fire move like this': Manitoba wildfire now at 31,500 hectares

Fire crews are continuing to battle a significant blaze in Manitoba’s north that has prompted evacuations.

These three Winnipeg restaurants have been named as some of Canada's best

A trio of Winnipeg restaurants have been named as some of the best in the country.

Regina police investigating fatal collision on 7th Avenue

The Regina Police Service (RPS) is asking drivers and pedestrians to avoid 7th Avenue between Retallack Street and Cameron Street as an investigation is underway.

Saskatchewan Party MLAs barred from Regina Pride parade over school pronoun law

Organizers for Regina's Pride parade have barred legislature members of the governing Saskatchewan Party from participating in the event in June.

Kitchener city council votes to give THEMUSEUM $300K to stay open

Kitchener city councillors voted in favour of giving THEMUSEUM $300,000 to avoid being forced to close.

A dozen people displaced, $150K in damage after Cambridge apartment fire

Red Cross is helping 12 people who were displaced following an apartment fire in Cambridge.

University of Waterloo students and community members set up Gaza encampment

A group of University of Waterloo students and community members have established an encampment on campus to protest the war in Gaza.

'I was in shock': Sask. homeowner finds a porcupine stowaway in her garage

In a growing city it’s no surprise when suburban residents come across wild animals around their yards, but one Saskatoon homeowner in Kensington started poking around for answers when she spotted a quilled critter hanging out in her garage.

Looming fall election puts pressure on province to end dispute with teachers, professor says

The end of the school year and a looming fall election are putting additional pressure on the province to strike a deal with Saskatchewan teachers, according to two political scientists.

The driver of a dump truck in a serious crash on Circle Drive has died, police say

Saskatoon police say the driver of a dump truck heavily damaged in a crash on Circle Drive on Friday died in hospital.

Northern Ontario

North bay police looking for third suspect in business break-in.

With two suspects in custody, North Bay police are asking the public for help in identifying a third accused of breaking into a downtown business.

Western University researchers unlock potential 'cure' for ALS

New research out of London, Ont.'s Western University is shedding light on a potential cure for ALS, with the goal of conducting human clinical trials within the next five years.

Councillors pull no punches during discussion about their salaries and workload

Councillors offered an unvarnished glimpse into what it’s like to represent their constituents at city hall during a meeting of the Governance Working Group (GWG). The deputy mayor said rather than part-time or full-time his job is 'all the time.'

London police request public’s assistance in arson investigation

Days after a vehicle was set on fire in a south London neighbourhood, London police are requesting the public’s assistance in identifying a suspicious vehicle seen in the area shortly before the vehicle was found on fire.

Residents in Simcoe County faced with toonie-sized hail after heavy storm

Simcoe County was under a severe thunderstorm warning with the potential for strong winds up to 90 kilometres per hour, toonie-sized hail, and heavy downpours on Monday.

Mother of 2 killed in Innisfil crash

Young mother was killed in a two-vehicle crash in Innisfil Saturday morning.

Barrie boy arrested after alleged assault leaves female victim hospitalized

A Barrie teen faces serious charges after an alleged altercation in a parking lot that police say sent a female to the hospital.

Summerlike weather in store for Windsor, Ont. Tuesday

It’s only spring, but Tuesday’s forecast in Windsor will be feeling summerlike with a daytime high in the mid 20s.

Rally held at Detroit-Windsor Tunnel

Canada Border Services Agency employees held a rally at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel.

Unanimous support for downtown Windsor by council

After a marathon, six-hour meeting on the Downtown Windsor Revitalization Plan, council and the mayor voted in favour of increasing taxes to support the core.

Vancouver Island

Open burning bans coming to coastal B.C. as wildfire activity increases

Most open burning will be banned in coastal B.C. ahead of the May long weekend.

Next 48 hours will be 'extremely challenging' for B.C. wildfire crews near Fort Nelson: officials

A wildfire burning dangerously close to Fort Nelson, B.C., has grown to more than 50 square kilometres, and officials are warning that the blaze's behaviour is expected to become more volatile over the next 48 hours.

'Altercation' in Penticton leaves 1 dead: RCMP

One person is dead after a fight in Penticton early Sunday morning, according to authorities.

Suspect fled in 2-door Fiat after convenience store robbery, Merritt RCMP say

A suspect is at large after robbing a convenience store at gunpoint in Merritt, B.C., Friday, according to local police.

Kamloops RCMP issue public warning about 2 men allegedly at centre of 'organized crime conflict'

After four targeted shootings in four days, Mounties in Kamloops are taking the unusual step of warning the public about two men they believe are likely to be targeted in future violent incidents.

Lethbridge charities see decline in number of volunteers

Some Lethbridge charities are having a hard time staffing volunteers, saying the number of people willing to donate their time to non-profits over the years has decreased.

Medicine Hat, Alta., police arrest local man in child luring case

Thousands of messages were sent between a teenage girl in the U.S. and an Alberta man posing as a young boy, a police investigation has revealed.

Southern Alberta farmers optimistic after recent rainfall

After a dry winter, southern Alberta farmers were expecting it to be another tough growing season.

Sault Ste. Marie

Violent weekend in Sault Ste. Marie includes multiple shootings

Ontario’s police watchdog has been called in after multiple shootings in Sault Ste. Marie took place last weekend.

Police say Sault suspect slashed 45 tires, started garage fire

A 40-year-old man from Sault Ste. Marie has been charged with arson and mischief following several incidents beginning April 14.

GTA man charged in major drug bust in northwestern Ontario

A 22-year-old man from the Greater Toronto Area is facing drug trafficking charges after police in northwestern Ontario seized $700,000 in drugs during raid.

'Irate male' assaulted Newfoundland officers with block of cheese, police say

Police in Newfoundland say patrol officers were assaulted Thursday by a "very irate male" wielding a block of cheese.

Whooping cough outbreak declared in Newfoundland

Health officials say there is an outbreak of whooping cough in eastern Newfoundland.

Trucker's body found in trailer in Newfoundland after failed police search in Ontario

Ontario Provincial Police are facing tough questions about their search for a missing Newfoundland trucker whose rig was found two weeks ago in Ontario, then sent back to Newfoundland, where his body was found Monday in the trailer.

Shopping Trends

The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop.  Read about us.

Editor's Picks

13 blackout curtains for anyone who needs complete darkness to fall asleep, 17 backyard decor and furniture pieces you need before summer arrives, 20 affordable amazon beauty and skincare products you'll probably repurchase over and over again, 15 of the best towels you can get online, 14 essential puppy products for new dog owners, this key box could prevent your car from being stolen, 18 brilliant birthday gifts for the person on your list who is impossible to shop for, 15 birthday gifts that prove good things come in small packages, 15 brilliant gift add-ons that cost less than $15, 14 of the best gentle cleansers for people with sensitive skin, 14 of the best cream and liquid bronzers you can get online right now, if you're on the hunt for a volumizing mascara, here are 12 that reviewers are loving right now, health & fitness, if you're training for your first marathon, here are the pairs of shoes seasoned runners swear by, 14 of the best products for people who get migraines and headaches constantly, if you like green tea, you need at least one of these matcha powders in your pantry, stay connected.

ETIAS for Canadians

Europe's travel authorisation for citizens of canada.

This website does not belong to, nor is it affiliated with, the EU. The official website of the European Union is europa.eu.

Canadian citizens can travel to the Schengen Area visa-free for stays up to 90 days. The Schengen passport-free zone is made up of European Union countries like Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, as well as 4 non-European Union countries; Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

From 2025, Canadian citizens will be able to register with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) . ETIAS is an electronic visa waiver for non-EU nationals who do not need a visa for short trips to the Schengen Area.

ETIAS for Canadian citizens is being implemented to pre-screen visa-exempt travellers to the Schengen Area. It will help identify any potential security threats and make Europe safer for both residents and travellers. The ETIAS system has received support from all the EU member countries.

The information provided by applicants when applying for the ETIAS from Canada will be checked against several information security databases, including EURODAC, the Schengen Information System (SIS), and the Visa Information System (VIS), which are all managed by EU-LISA , the EU agency is also responsible for implementation of ETIAS .

Do Canadians Need ETIAS to Enter in Europe?

Yes . Canada is one of the ETIAS countries whose citizens will require an electronic travel authorisation to travel to the Schengen Area for short stays. Canadians who plan on travelling to the European Union for business, leisure, or short-term study will need to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver .

Passengers who plan to leave the international transit area of a European airport between flights will also need to have the ETIAS.

ETIAS will be operational from 2025.

ETIAS Required

ETIAS permits Canadians to travel to all Schengen member states from 2025:

• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• EU Schengen
• Non-EU Schengen States

Non-Schengen EU States

Non-eu member states:.

• Liechtenstein
• Switzerland

Micro-States de facto part of Schengen Area:

• Vatican City

The ETIAS from Canada is a multiple-entry travel authorisation that permits the holder to travel to all of the Schengen Area countries for short stays. It allows a total stay in Schengen countries of 90 days within every 180-day period, and is valid for a total of 3 years from the date of approval, meaning there is no need to apply for an ETIAS before every trip to the Schengen Area .

Eligible applicants are able to complete the simple online application in around 20 minutes, by providing personal and passport information, and answering a few security-related questions, to receive an ETIAS for Canada electronically linked to their passport .

Do European Citizens Need a Visa for Canada?

Because of reciprocal agreements between Canada and the European Union and Schengen Area countries, European citizens do not need a visa to travel to Canada for short stays under 180 days.

However, all visa-exempt citizens who plan to visit Canada for less than 6 months, and who are arriving by air, are required to pre-register for an eTA, a Canadian version of the United States ESTA or the ETIAS visa waiver . Like ETIAS for Europe, the eTA was implemented in order to prescreen visa-exempt travellers to Canada and strengthen the country’s borders.

ETIAS and eTA also share a simple online application process in common. It is necessary to complete an online form with a range of personal and passport information, and answer a few security-related questions, in order to receive an approved eTA for Canada.

An approved eTA for Canada is also a multiple-entry travel authorisation which allows multiple short stays of up to 180 days with each entry, and is valid for a total of 5 years from the date of approval . European citizens who wish to spend longer consecutive periods in Canada, or travel to the country for purposes other than those permitted with an eTA, are required to apply for a visa from their nearest Canadian embassy or consulate.

ETIAS Requirements for Canadian Citizens entering Europe

There are several requirements for Canadian citizens planning to travel to Europe with ETIAS. To submit an ETIAS application, Canadian nationals will need:

• A Canadian passport valid for at least 3 months after the intended date of departure from the European ETIAS countries
• A valid credit card or debit card to pay the ETIAS fee from Canada
• A current email address to which the approved ETIAS will be sent

Unless they provide these documents, any potential travellers to the European Union from Canada will not be able to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver. When completing the data on the ETIAS application, applicants should take care to use the same passport they will later use to travel to the Schengen Area, as the European visa waiver is electronically linked to an individual passport. Canadian citizens with dual nationality should keep this in mind .

As the visa waiver for Europe is electronically linked to a specific passport , it will not be mandatory to print a copy of the approved ETIAS: travellers will simply be able to present the passport to transport carriers and at Schengen border control. Travellers are advised to print a copy of the ETIAS confirmation.

Travelling to Europe from Canada

After receiving an approved ETIAS, Canadian travellers will be able to visit the Schengen Area for multiple short stays during its validity, or until the associated passport expires, whichever comes first. Once the traveller's passport expires, it is necessary to submit a new ETIAS for Canada application to continue to travel to Europe . This is because the approved ETIAS is electronically linked to the individual travel document used to complete the initial application.

It is also important to note that an ETIAS can be refused if the information provided on the application does not match the details of the traveller's passport. It is therefore important to make sure all the data on the form does not contain any mistakes before submitting the application.

ETIAS for Canadian nationals can also be revoked if it is deemed that the conditions for issuing the travel authorisation are not met. This is especially the case in situations where the authorities believe that the visa waiver was obtained by providing misleading or fraudulent information.

Canadian citizens travelling to Europe with children should also be aware that it is necessary for all minors under the age of 18 to have an individual approved ETIAS, although parents or legal guardians are able to submit an ETIAS application on behalf of their child .

Requirements for Canadians who cannot travel with ETIAS

Travellers from Canada who wish to stay in the Schengen Area for longer than 90 consecutive days, or to travel for purposes other than those permitted with ETIAS, such as to work or study longer than 90 days, are required to apply for a visa from an embassy or consulate.

Applicants are required to apply in person from an embassy or consulate of the country they wish to visit, as, unlike the ETIAS for Canadians, a Schengen Europe visa is issued for one specific Schengen country. It may be issued as a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visa, as the length of a Schengen visa for Canadian citizens is determined on an individual basis.

In order to apply, it is necessary to attend an appointment at an embassy with a variety of supporting documentation, including a completed Schengen country visa application for Canadians , a valid Canadian passport, and proof of sufficient financial means to cover the stay in Europe. Canadian citizens are required to submit a visa application at least 15 days before the intended entry date to Europe to allow for sufficient processing time.

Bilateral agreements between Canada and EU Member States

Canadian citizens can stay in certain European countries beyond the 90-day Schengen limit thanks to bilateral visa-waiver agreements.

The Schengen Area nations that currently have bilateral agreements with Canada are listed below, along with the maximum permitted length of stay in each case:

• Belgium (2 months)
• Denmark (3 months)
• Germany (3 months)
• Greece (90 days)*
• Spain (90 days)*
• France (90 days)*
• Italy (3 months)
• Hungary (90 days)*
• The Netherlands (90 days)
• Austria (3 months)
• Portugal (60 days)*
• Sweden (3 months)*

Schengen-associated countries:

• Iceland (3 months)
• Norway (90 days)

*Ordinary passport holders only

Canadian citizens who take advantage of one of these bilateral agreements must remain in the EU Member State they apply to for the entire extension period . It is not permitted to move freely around the Schengen Area under a bilateral agreement.

For this reason, at the end of their stay, Canadians must depart from the specific European nation by either travelling directly to a third country or transiting through non-Schengen territory.

Bilateral agreements between Canada and EU Member States are subject to change.

How Can I Apply for ETIAS in Canada?

To obtain an ETIAS online visa waiver , Canadian citizens need to apply online . The registration process for ETIAS is designed to be simple and quick in order to expedite the approval process. Like the ESTA programme already in place in the United States, applicants will need to answer some security questions as well as provide personal information and details about their travel plans.

The personal and passport information to be included on the ETIAS form for Canadian nationals includes full name, gender, current address, contact telephone number, place of birth, country of birth, nationality, passport number, and passport expiry/issue date. It is also necessary to provide the Schengen country of first intended entry on the application form. Applicants will also be asked to offer details of their education and current employment situation.

The security-related questions on the Canada ETIAS form cover topics like :

• Prior travel to the Schengen Area
• History of criminal convictions
• Previous travel to conflict areas

It is important to note that Canadian citizens with minor criminal convictions are still likely to be granted an ETIAS Europe visa waiver , as long as they are truthful about their criminal history. However, those with serious convictions that involved jail time, especially human trafficking, terrorism or drug offenses, are not likely to receive an approved electronic travel authorisation for Europe.

After the passenger provides the information and paid the ETIAS fee, they should receive the approved ETIAS visa waiver via email within 24 hours. However, Canadian citizens are advised to submit an application at least 72 hours before the intended arrival date in the Schengen Area, to allow sufficient time for the visa waiver to be processed.

Canadians are able to submit an application for ETIAS online from anywhere outside of the Schengen Area , using any device, whether a desktop computer, tablet, or mobile phone.

ETIAS for Canadians - FAQ

Can canadians study in europe with etias.

Yes , ETIAS allows Canadians to study in a Schengen country for up to 90 days . For courses longer than 90 days, you will need a student visa for the country you are studying in.

Does ETIAS allow Canadians to Work in Europe?

ETIAS does not permit Canadians to work** as employees of a company based in a European country. This is because the visa waiver system only permits overseas visitors entry to the Schengen area for tourist, short-term study, transit, and business purposes.

To work in an EU country , Canadian citizens will need to apply for an appropriate national visa or work permit for the country they are seeking employment in.

Can ETIAS be used for Visiting Family Members Living in Europe from Canada

Yes , ETIAS allows Canadians to visit friends or family members who are either citizens of a Schengen member country or residency permit holders . This type of visit can be indicated during the visa waiver application process.

What is the difference between a visa and ETIAS for Canadians?

ETIAS is an electronic travel authorisation, also known as a visa waiver , it is not a visa for Europe. Canadians do not need a visa to travel to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days per 180-day period. ETIAS is an electronic travel authorisation used to pre-screen visitors who are exempt from applying for a visa.

10 tips for Canadians travelling to Europe in 2024, from visa requirements to tipping culture

P lanning a European vacation this year? Whether you're eyeing a summer trip spent Greek island hopping or you'll be heading to Paris this fall, there are plenty of things you'll want to keep in mind before you head out.

From entry rules to what to pack, there are quite a few key things that Canadians should be sure to prepare for if they're travelling overseas.

To help, we've laid out a few key tips for Canucks visiting Europe in 2024. Including requirements for your Canadian passport , how to get a tax refund and local tipping etiquette, here are 10 things to keep in mind before embarking on your trip.

Check visa requirements

www.instagram.com

Before travelling to Europe, make sure you're aware of the entry requirements of the country or countries you'll be visiting.

While Canadians won't need a visa to visit most European countries, some have different rules when it comes to how long Canadians can visit visa-free .

For instance, in Schengen area countries such as Iceland, Italy, Portugal and Spain, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period and includes visits to any Schengen area country.

Other countries outside the Schengen area may have different rules. In the United Kingdom , for example, tourist visas are not required for stays of up to six months.

According to the Government of Canada, it's important to get your passport stamped when you first enter the Schengen area.

Without this, you may run into problems if you encounter the local police (or other authorities) anywhere in the Schengen area during your visit or with immigration officials when you depart.

Make sure your passport is valid

How long your passport needs to be valid for will also vary by country.

For instance, in Schengen zone countries, your Canadian passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date you expect to leave the area.

Other European countries, such as Andorra , only require that your passport be valid for the duration of your stay.

Some countries in Europe are landlocked and without their own airports, meaning you'll have to also meet the entry rules of neighbouring countries in order to visit.

You can check the entry and exit requirements of a country by referring to Canada's travel advisory page .

Pack an adapter

Be aware that your Canadian appliances won't fit in the electrical outlets in Europe, which uses two round prong outlets unlike the flat pin outlets used in Canada.

A simple solution is to purchase a power adaptor or voltage converter beforehand. A voltage converter can also save you from potentially frying your hair dryer, as Europe uses 220 volts, compared to Canada's 110, according to the Travel Industry Council of Ontario.

If you're partial to Apple products, the company sells a World Travel Adapter Kit that you can buy on Amazon. However, you can get them from pretty much any travel store and even at the airport for last-minute shoppers.

It may be a good idea to bring more than one — that way, you can charge multiple items at once.

Travel with local currency

If you're travelling to Europe, you'll want to have some of the local currency on hand, which is especially important if you’re travelling outside big tourist cities to smaller towns.

While many European Union countries use the euro , some countries still use their own national currencies. Currently, the euro is the official currency of 20 out of 27 EU member countries which together constitute the Eurozone.

They are Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.

There are also six countries that are part of the EU but use their own national currencies: Bulgaria, Czechia, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Sweden.

Non-EU member countries, including Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, use their national currencies.

It's a good idea to check beforehand what kind of currency you'll need for your trip and to have some on hand.

Besides cash, you can usually also use your Canadian credit card when travelling in Europe, but be aware of differing conversion rates depending on the local currency.

Be aware of tourist fees

As a Canadian, there are certain fees you'll have to pay when visiting Europe that vary by country.

Many countries impose tourist taxes on foreigners in certain major cities, usually added to the price of the tourist's accommodation.

For instance, Barcelona in Spain charges a tourist tax that's levied on official tourist lodging and varies depending on the type of accommodation. As of April 2024, the tax is 6.75 euros (about CA$9.92) for five-star hotels, 4.95 euros for four-star hotels, and 5.50 euros for "housing for tourist use."

Other European countries including Switzerland, France, Portugal and Greece also charge tourist taxes. Check with your accommodation or the tourism board for each destination before travelling to be sure how much you need to pay.

Canadians will also have to soon pay a fee to visit 30 countries in Europe.

Starting in the first half of 2025, Canadians will have to pay a travel authorization called the ETIAS to travel to countries including Portugal, Belgium, Iceland, Greece, Italy, France, and Germany.

The ETIAS will allow travellers to stay in the territory of European countries requiring an ETIAS for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

A full list of countries where the ETIAS will apply can be found on the European Union website .

Once it does come into effect, Canadians will be charged a fee of 7 euros (CA$10.29).

Get a VAT refund

Canadians visiting the EU who are about to leave EU territory to go home or to some other place outside the area may be able to buy goods free of VAT.

VAT, which stands for "value added tax," is a sales tax included in the price you pay for the goods you purchase while in the EU.

As someone who does not live in the EU, however, a Canadian traveller is eligible to buy goods free of VAT in special shops.

Generally, you will have to pay the VAT while shopping, but can get a refund on the tax.

The European Commission advises asking the shop assistant in advance whether they provide this service, and finding out what threshold applies to the purchase in order to be eligible for a refund.

To get your refund, you'll need to show your passport or other identity document proving your residence outside the EU, and will be asked to fill out a form.

You'll then receive an invoice for the goods which you must show to customs officers of the last EU country you leave in order to obtain the refund.

According to the European Commission, you can claim your VAT refund in bigger airports immediately; otherwise, you will have to send the refund form to the address given to you in the shop.

You can also get a refund on VAT when shopping in other European countries that are not members of the EU, such as Iceland and the U.K.

Know the local laws

Remember that different countries will have different local laws that you must abide by. Some apply to certain activities that may be perfectly legal in Canada, but could land you in hot water while abroad .

For instance, in Italy, certain municipalities — particularly those that see a high number of visitors like Venice, Rome, and Florence — have adopted strict public conduct rules, according to the Government of Canada .

In these areas, certain behaviours including sitting, eating or drinking on a monument or an archaeological landmark, walking in an urban setting in swimwear or without a shirt, and feeding pigeons are actually illegal.

Other European countries have their own rules for activities that would be innocuous in Canada. In Spain , some municipalities, including Barcelona, have banned beachwear outside of local beaches, and those caught could face on-the-spot fines.

Be sure to research the destination you're travelling to. You can consult the Government of Canada's travel advisories for information regarding local laws and culture.

Understand tipping etiquette

While tipping is practically obligatory in Canada, tipping culture is much different in Europe.

While it varies by country, generally, tips are not expected in Europe as they are in Canada.

"For most, tips are not expected in Europe, and it's fine not to tip at all, especially in more casual settings like bars or cafes," says ETIAS.com .

The website lays out tipping etiquette in several popular European destinations. For example, in France, tips are not obligatory, it says, and diners instead may notice a " service compris" or "service included" fee equivalent to 15 percent of the bill added to their cheque.

That said, diners may want to still leave something small to show their appreciation; in this case, they can simply round up the bill to the next euro, a common practice for when a larger tip may not be warranted.

For other country-specific tipping information, travellers can look to the local tourism board for their destination, which will often have information on local tipping etiquette.

Consider a budget airline

While Canada doesn't have many budget airlines flying to Europe, in 2023, Play Airlines launched its first flights from the True North, offering Canucks cheap flights to over 30 European destinations.

With Play, you can fly from Toronto to destinations like Greece, France, Italy, Portugal and more for considerably cheaper than other major Canadian airlines.

The airline also frequently has sales that offer additional savings on their already cheap flights.

Check baggage restrictions

If you'll be travelling in Europe, be aware that local European airlines will often have different luggage restrictions compared to those of Canada.

For instance, if you were travelling to the islands of Greece, you'd likely have to take a Greek flight once you arrive in the country on your flight from Canada.

While your Canadian airline may have not had any restrictions on cabin baggage weight ( Air Canada , for instance, specifies that cabin baggage has no weight restrictions but must be light enough that you can store it unassisted), the local airline you fly with in your destination may have different rules.

Popular Greek airline Aegean , for instance, says that carry-on baggage must weigh no more than 8 kilograms (17.6 pounds).

Be sure to check the luggage requirements for every airline you'll be flying with to avoid any hassles during your trip.

Bon voyage!

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

EU travel requirement for Canadians delayed again

European union's new visa waiver program postponed until 2025.

Social Sharing

A new European Union program that would require Canadians to register before travelling to Europe has been delayed again.

The program, which was scheduled to come into effect on Jan. 1, 2024, has been delayed until sometime in 2025, according to a news release  issued last week.

The setback was caused by an IT delivery issue. It marks the fourth delay for the system since it was first announced in 2018. The program originally was supposed to come into effect in 2021.

The new system, known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), will require that visa-exempt travellers — including Canadians — apply online for visa waivers before their arrival in one of the 27 Schengen-area countries or Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus.

• Almost half of all flight delays in 2022 were airlines' responsibility, government data suggests
• Airlines claim passenger safety at risk under new passenger rights rules

Ireland will not participate in the program and will continue to have its own visa policy because it is part of the Common Travel Area with the United Kingdom.

The waiver will cost seven Euros and will last for three years. Canadians will be required to fill out a form online with their personal information and make the payment before they travel. While most waivers will be processed in minutes, some could take up to 30 days.

Canadians who hold an EU passport or a residency card in an EU country will be exempt from the program.

The changes will affect hundreds of thousands Canadians who travel to the EU every year. 

Canada has a similar program — the Electronic Travel Authorization — which costs users $5 and lasts for five years for visa-exempt travellers to Canada. The United States also has visa waiver programs for many countries but Canadians are not required to have a waiver to travel to the United States.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Stephen Hoff is a producer for CBC News Parliamentary bureau. He can be reached by email at [email protected].

• Follow Stephen Hoff on Twitter

Best roaming plans for Canadians travelling to Europe

Whether you want to get in some skiing, go backpacking, or hit the winding — and sometimes high-velocity — roads, Europe is an amazing travel destination for Canadians. Roaming in countries like France, Germany, Spain, Portugal and the United Kingdom can be expensive if you don't know which options to choose. Be smart with these great roaming services.

KnowRoaming

KnowRoaming has created a sticker that, using a special tool included in the box, adheres to the underside of a regular SIM card. Once the now-double SIM gets put back of your iPhone or Android Phone, the magic begins. With its free iOS or Android apps, KnowRoaming acts both as a director of information, determining which SIM card needs to be used depending on the phone's location, and as a full-service MVNO in nearly every country in Europe.

For $7.99 USD per day, KnowRoaming offers unlimited roaming data in a number of European countries, including France, Germany, Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom, Portugal, Netherlands and more.

Better, it can also automatically forward a Canadian number to its European equivalent, giving KnowRoaming customers the option of making and receiving calls as they would back home.

What to know : KnowRoaming is smart: it assigns a local number whenever it enters a new country, and its excellent iOS or Android apps track call, text and data usage. 3G-only (for now).

Unlocked iPhone or Android Phone needed

See at KnowRoaming

Master your iPhone in minutes

iMore offers spot-on advice and guidance from our team of experts, with decades of Apple device experience to lean on. Learn more with iMore!

Technically, Roamer is an iPhone app that intelligently forwards your home number to a European equivalent so you can make and receive calls as you would back in Canada. But a little-known side of the business is the Roamer SIM — a single card that connects to the best local carriers in 118 countries, including many in Europe.

While prices are slightly higher than they are on KnowRoaming, it is still significantly cheaper than many roaming plans purchased from a Canadian carrier. To wit, traveling to France offers the following:

• 1 day / €5 / 50MB
• 7 days / €15 / 300MB
• 7 days / €25 / 1GB
• 14 days / €50 / 1GB

The beauty of Roamer SIM is that the company delivers to Canadian (or U.S.) addresses, which means it can be configured prior to leaving. Simply put the SIM in your iPhone and enable it once on the ground in Europe.

What to know : Roamer assigns a local number for every country visited, and usage can be tracked with the free iOS app . Phone calls and texts are extra, but still cheap. First 25MB of data is free.

See at Roamer{.cta .shop.nofollow}

Buy a local SIM

This option may seem obvious, but it's also the most onerous. Many Western European countries such as Spain, Germany, Italy, and France have a number of core carriers, such as Vodafone, T-Mobile and Orange, along with dozens of MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) that resell access to those core networks.

Most of the core carriers and MVNOs offer prepaid access, and are some of the least expensive ways to get a local number and cheap data in a foreign country.

There are a few things to keep in mind before purchasing a local SIM card in a European country:

• European networks use different wireless bands than Canadian and U.S. carriers. Most carriers in Western Europe use a combination of 800 / 900 / 1800 / 2100 / 2600 Mhz, so make sure that you check your unlocked iPhone for compatibility.
• Many prepaid SIM cards require activation through SMS or a web-based portal, and by default use the local language. Make sure when purchasing, you get the store clerk to activate the SIM, or ask how to change the default language to one of your choice.
• Make sure that, should you need more data, you have a way to do so without requiring a European credit card. This is especially important if you plan on moving from a big city to more rural areas where topping up at a store is not possible.
• If you're going to be moving between countries, ask when purchasing whether the carrier has European roaming options. Some carriers have deals with other networks that make it cheap, or free, to roam on partner networks in neighbouring or nearby countries.

What to know : Discover the best networks in the country you're visiting with this helpful European roaming Wiki .

Unlocked iPhone or Android phone needed

Use your own SIM card

In recent years, Canadian carriers have become more serious about European roaming. Spurred by Rogers' Roam Like Home, today all three major Canadian carriers offer cheap or discounted European roaming packages.

Rogers Roam Like Home

The OG roaming package, Rogers Roam Like Home charges customers $10 per day, up to a maximum of 10 days or $100 per billing cycle, to access their Share Everything plan in most European countries.

Say, for example, you have a Share Everything plan (all of which include unlimited calls and texts) with 2.5GB of monthly data. In any Roam Like Home-supported country, your smartphone will tap into that data allotment while roaming. There are no separate data buckets or fees. After 10 days of travel, that $10 daily fee is waived.

What to know : Overage fees still apply after 10 days of travel, so be careful about using too much data while abroad, and download the MyRogers app to stay on top of data usage. Enroll by texting travel to 222.

See at Rogers

Bell recently expanded its Roam Better service to include dozens of countries around the world, including many in Europe.

Similar to its U.S.-based roaming option, Roam Better allows travellers to spend a set amount per day — in this case, $10 — for unlimited calls and texts in that country, plus 100MB of data. Unlike Roam Like Home, Roam Better doesn't eat into a customer's existing domestic data bucket. On the other hand, it can get pricey, since 100MB is easy to chew through while loading maps and learning about the city.

What to know : After 100MB is used, Bell automatically sends a text message asking whether you want to opt-in to another 100MB of data for $10. Data expires at 11:59pm Eastern Time regardless of where you're roaming, so be careful; most European countries are between five and eight hours ahead of EST, which means the count will reset in the early hours of the morning. Enroll by texting ROAM to 7626.

See at Bell

Telus bundles

Telus hasn't extended its Easy Roam product to Europe just yet, so travellers to the continent are best to look elsewhere. Bundles include:

• Europe Combo Pass $50: 50 minutes, 150 texts, 150MB
• Europe Combo Pass $85: 75 minutes, 300 texts, 750MB
• Europe Combo Pass $150: 200 minutes, unlimited texts, 1.5GB

All passes are valid for 30 days.

What to know : Because Telus doesn't offer a European equivalent of US Easy Roam, it's very important to either get a bundle before leaving, or turn off roaming completely. Pay-per-use rates for Europe are exorbitant, at $1.50 per call minute, $0.60 per text, and $5.00 per MB data.

See at Telus

Is your carrier not listed? Check with them to see if they have inexpensive daily, weekly, or monthly European travel bundles. Have roaming experiences or tips to share? Leave them in in the comments!

Daniel Bader is a Senior Editor at iMore, offering his Canadian analysis on Apple and its awesome products. In addition to writing and producing, Daniel regularly appears on Canadian networks CBC and CTV as a technology analyst.

Do you need to spend $100 on an iPhone case? I’ve tested hundreds of them, and here’s what you have to consider

Apple accused of using blood minerals from a region 'devastated by grave violations of human rights' in its products

A new free PlayStation emulator comes to the App Store before Provenance does — and you may have heard of its developer before

Most Popular

• 2 People aren't fans of Sonos's new app — "Basically busted it so bad I can't even use it"
• 3 New lowest price for iPad Air 5 at Walmart, just as latest model is about to launch
• 4 Apple and ChatGPT maker OpenAI one step closer to getting the chatbot on iPhone
• 5 Report says WWDC 2024 will bring visionOS 2.0 and international Vision Pro sales

Starting in 2024 Canadians will be charged for visiting Europe

Updated Aug 2, 2023

Play article   

(    mins)

(    )

When it comes to travel, Canadians have it pretty easy.

The influential Henley Passport Index puts Canada’s passport, which grants visa-free or visa-on-demand access to 185 countries, among the top 10 in the world .

Many Canadians have been quick to take advantage of their broad access to international travel. But as of 2024, that might change thanks to new rules in some parts of Europe requiring Canadians to get a permit to comply with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).

What is the ETIAS?

The ETIAS is a new entry requirement for visa-exempt travellers visiting certain countries in Europe. Travellers from Canada and the USA are among those subject to the changes, which have come about, in part, to address security concerns.

An ETIAS permit is required for travel to the following 30 countries:

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

Grow Your Savings Effortlessly with Moka

Automate your savings with every purchase and watch your money multiply. Moka rounds up your transactions and invests the spare change. Start building wealth effortlessly today. Join thousands of Canadians embracing financial freedom with Moka

How to apply for an ETIAS permit

So how does it all work?

According to the ETIAS website , visitors who require this permit should apply online before they consider booking any hotels and flights. Most applications will be processed within minutes, but some may take up to four business days.

In cases where applicants have not provided sufficient documentation, the process may take longer. For those who are required to provide additional documentation, the process can take up to 14 days and if you are asked for an interview you can expect to wait up to 30 days for a decision.

The application will include questions about your personal information, education and occupation, where you intend to stay, any past criminal convictions or visits to war or conflict zones.

You will be notified by email whether or not your application is approved. Approved applicants are asked to double-check all information on their authorization. Incorrect information will result in being turned away at the border. If you have not been approved, you will be told why and receive instructions on how to appeal the decision.

Your ETIAS permit, once granted, will be valid for three years or until your passport expires. While travelling, you must ensure that you have your permit on you at all times along with the travel document used for your application.

Importantly, an ETIAS permit will not automatically guarantee access to all of the participating European countries. You will still have to go through customs and border checks and meet each country’s entry conditions.

Cost and exemptions

The cost for applying for an ETIAS permit is seven euros, which is about $10.27 with the current exchange rate. Applicants will have a variety of online payment options.

There are also a few exemptions to be aware of. Applicants under the age of 18 or over the age of 70 do not need to pay for ETIAS. Additionally, if you are a family member of an EU citizen or EU national who has the right to move freely throughout the European Union, you are exempt.

Unexpected vet bills don’t have to break the bank

Life with pets is unpredictable, but there are ways to prepare for the unexpected.

Fetch Insurance offers coverage for treatment of accidents, illnesses, prescriptions drugs, emergency care and more.

Plus, their optional wellness plan covers things like routine vet trips, grooming and training costs, if you want to give your pet the all-star treatment while you protect your bank account.

Permit vs visa

The ETIAS permit is specifically for short-term tourism (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) in the 30 European countries on the list. Longer stays and work-related travel will still require the appropriate visas.

Note that applications for ETIAS permits for travel are not yet open. The program was meant to start in 2021 but has been pushed to 2024. It is expected that the platform will be up and running in November 2023 with fees to be collected starting in 2024. Updates will be made as soon as more information is available.

Trade Smarter, Today

With CIBC Investor's Edge , kick-start your portfolio with 100 free trades and up to $4,500 cash back.

Hannah Logan is a Canadian freelancer writer and blogger who specializes in personal finance and travel. You can follow her adventures on her travel blog EatSleepBreatheTravel.com or find her on Instagram @hannahlogan21.

Explore the latest articles

Best staycation ideas to save you money.

When your budget's not travel-friendly, take a trip in your own home

Your financial horoscope for this week

8 ways to save on pet care costs.

The content provided on Money.ca is information to help users become financially literate. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, either express or implied, with respect to the data provided, the timeliness thereof, the results to be obtained by the use thereof or any other matter.

The Financial Post trademark is used under license from Postmedia Network Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Find cheap flights to Europe from C$ 315

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from canada to europe departing on 3/6. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to europe.

Save 21% or more Compare multiple travel sites with one search.

Track prices Not ready to book? Create a price alert for when prices drop.

Free to use There are no hidden charges or fees.

Filter your deals Choose cabin class, free Wi-Fi and more.

Best Europe Flight Deals

Cheapest round-trip prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours

Good to know

Faqs - booking europe flights, which airports are best for canadian flights to london.

You can get frequent flight service from several Canadian airports including those in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Halifax to London Heathrow. If you’re looking for more flexibility, Lufthansa offers one-stop flights out of Montreal to London City Airport (LCY) whereas Air Transat provides non-stop service from Toronto to London Gatwick Airport (LGW).

Do Canadian citizens require a visa for flights to Europe?

Currently, Canadian citizens do not need a visa to enter European countries within the Schengen zone and can enjoy a stay up to 90 days before one is required. However, as of November 2023, all Canadian nationals will need an ETIAS authorisation to travel to Schengen countries as well as Cyprus, Croatia, Bulgaria and Romania.

Which Canadian airport has the best fares to Northern Europe?

If you plan on visiting cities in Northern Europe such as Oslo, Stockholm or Helsinki, there are cheap flights available via Icelandair and SAS from Toronto to all three destinations. You can also get low fares from Montreal with both airlines, but your travel time will be a couple hours longer in most cases.

Which airlines offer non-stops from Canada to Europe?

There are several airlines offering non-stop flights from Canadian airports to a few European cities. Air Canada, Air Transat and British Airways offer direct departures from Toronto and Montreal to London and Paris. KLM also has non-stop flights from Toronto to Amsterdam while Lufthansa has similar service from Montreal to Frankfurt.  

How long is the flight to Europe?

An average direct flight from Canada to Europe takes 8h 55m, covering a distance of 10485 km. The most popular route is Toronto - London with an average flight time of 7h 05m.

What is the cheapest flight to Europe?

The cheapest ticket to Europe from Canada found in the last 72 hours was C$ 206 one-way, and C$ 373 round-trip. The most popular route is Toronto Pearson Intl to London Heathrow and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was C$ 511.

Which airlines fly to Europe?

Air Canada, Lufthansa & United Airlines fly the most frequently from Canada to Europe. The most popular route is from Toronto to London, and Austrian Airlines, Air Canada and Lufthansa fly this route the most.

What are the most popular destinations in Europe?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is London (33% of total searches to Europe). The next most popular destinations are Paris (17%) and Rome (10%). Searches for flights to Istanbul (9%), to Lisbon (9%) and to Athens (5%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travellers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Europe

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Europe flight deals.
• For cheap flights from Canada to Europe the airports on the country’s east coast are closer to the continent and therefore offer a higher frequency of departures to European destinations. Toronto’s Pearson International Airport (YYZ), Montreal Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) are your best options for the least expensive fares. Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Vancouver International Airport (YVR) are other major airports offering transatlantic flights.
• Passengers travelling to Western Europe have the option of flying into several hubs across the region. For example, Air Canada and British Airways offer non-stops from Toronto to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) while the Canadian national airline and KLM offer direct departures from Toronto to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS). You can also consider flights into Milan as a third option since they are generally cheaper than other hubs like Paris.
• For excellent connections to Central Europe, Lufthansa departures from Toronto or Montreal to Frankfurt am Main International Airport (FRA) is perhaps your best option. Flights into Zurich from both these points of origin are typically cheaper than flying into Geneva, for instance and the fares into Krakow are also quite favourable compared to flights destined to Rome or Munich.
• Mediterranean countries are popular for summer travel to Europe. Low-cost carriers easyJet and Ryanair have hubs in Malaga and Palme de Mallorca, so you’ll likely save a few dollars compared with flights to Barcelona and Naples. Athens, Moscow and Istanbul are major transit hubs to explore the Eastern European countries, but you can also get cheaper airfares to airports in Sofia, Bucharest and Belgrade.
• Venice Carnival is one of the largest and most popular outdoor festivals in Europe, with a breath-taking variety of costumes, pageants and balls held over 20 days in February. easyJet and Aer Lingus offer some of the cheapest one-stop flights from Toronto Pearson International to Venice Marco Polo International Airport (VCE) while Air France provides frequent one-stop departures to the same destination from Montreal Trudeau International.

Top 5 airlines flying to Europe

I was pleasantly surprised. I booked the "club class" which was basically like Domestic First Class. The service was superior. Food was pretty good. Seats and cabin were comfortable. For the price I paid, I was very pleased.

Super unproffesional flight . Flight attendants were unproffesional. I could hear them gossiping about theor boyfriends the whole trip

The connecting flight lay over was 4.00 hours, the gate agent booked me on the next flight which was about to depart at no extra cost.

The ticket price was reasonable, food was okay, not the best. I would use the service again.

Actually the flight was on time. New plane, food was okay but not great.

Old plane, hard seats, 1.30 hours delay, while seating on the plane waiting for departure.

Great boarding. Everything was on time. Plane was a bit old and the crew could have provided better drink service.

Boarding was a little chaotic but it was a very large flight. It just wasn’t fast. And there was no noticeable difference between zones boarding.

Crew was pleasant. Aircraft was very dated and uncomfortable for our nearly 4 hour flight. We were in row 17 and they ran out of purchasable food by the time they got to us.

We were lucky enough to arrive at the right time. The staff at YYZ did our complete check in and luggage tags for us. Even made sure we knew where we were to head next and how to get there. It truly was one of the best and easiest check inside. Thanks team.

The check in was horrible. I stood in line for 1 hour to check in with an Air France ticket. Then I was told I had to go to Delta counter onstead to check in instead. It made no sense.

Generally good. The crew is excellent. The food could be better.

Business class in the second leg - CDG-EVN was a disaster.

Food could have been better especially the breakfast. Overall it was a good flight

No birding was given for next trip on same carrier, food was very moderate.

We transited through Chad and what was supposed to be a 1hr 20 minutes transit time lasted over 4hrs. We didn't get regular updates until we complained. After a 10hr flight from Paris no form of refreshment given and finally arrived Abuja over 6hrs later and none of my bags came

Lost luggage, 2 bags were badly damaged and one of the bags came open.

The line at boarding was not well organized and managed

A couple of minor delays in boarding but very professional and efficient staff.

Je n'ai pas pû incliner mon siège et une des hôtesses ne comprenait pas ce que je disais. Je devais parler fort

Pretty good service and US Migratory officers providing services in Canada was awesome, because the arrival was quick and smooth

It was late leaving but made up time in the air.

Rude Customer Service at checkin, 90 minute limit in flight check in is too strict. I was in line for 30 minutes because of slow/insufficient workers. Somewhere I got to the the counter of course the employee warned me about the 90 minutes. People were cutting the lines. No one did anything.

Squeeze like sardines. ANA has much better leg room. The food on air canada was disgusting. Worse that left over microwave dinner. Like you heated up microwave dinner then saved it overnight, then microwaved it again and added nasty garnish to try to elevate but instead made it as edible as cat food.

Rouge needs to offer seats with better pitch in economy. Many sick people on a full flight.

Overall, I would have to say my experience with Air Canada was mediocre their DC tens. Need to be updated not comfortable at all. Only one out of my four flights was decent. The staffing was very nice. Going through customs in Montreal was quick and easy. Air Canada has room for improvement with their facilities.

The first flight Seattle to Toronto was very poor. My seat was changed. The aircraft was changed. They were having issues with the meals. My second flight from Toronto to Quebec was fine. Short flight still no entertainment. My third flight Quebec to Montreal was very short seats are very uncomfortable, too old and way worn out almost like sitting on a bench. My last flight Montreal to Seattle was fine. Finally, they had some entertainment. Proper food was offered as advertised flight staff was accommodating and friendly, but once again, the aircraft seats are hard like benches.

Crew was terrific. In flight entertainment system is very slow and the touch screen can be not sensitive enough or too sensitive. It was such a pain to pause a movie in case when I unpaused it accidentally thought I presses stop. This happened 3 times. I gave up and went back to my phone for entertainment.

Everything was great. I really like how they had their safety film set up showing you the beauty of the country.

it was our first flight with Air Canada. The flight was very good. The arrived 10 minutes early. The crew was attentive and very professional. The seats were comfortable and the food was fine. There were a lot of movies and TV shows to choose from. The boading was OK, but it is more about the Montreal airport procedures, but not about Air Canada.

boarding needs to be streamlined load the back of the plane first

Try to humanize onboarding and take AI out. It's embarrassing and useless

no kiosks to check in with- it’s 2024!!! the flight was so hot and uncomfortable - not sure if that’s what caused a lady to faint during the flight but i was absolutely miserable.

Air Canada from Edmonton to Toronto was disappointing but Lufthansa from Toronto to Frankfurt was excellent.

I ended up buying (for $340) "extra space" seats because I my flying partner was given a STY boarding pass, leading me to conclude that she was on standby and that we had to buy seats on the flight. I later learned that the flight was not sold out and that we could have gotten on as usual. To be honest, I felt swindled.

The special meal was not correct. But the female stewardess who handled the problem did such a good job correcting the issue. She deserves recognition for understanding and providing customer service and having patience.

This flight is always a cramped bus. The gate area was inadequate and announcements were hard to hear. The flight was delayed 45 minutes to an hour by a broken aircraft door, making our total delay from Vilnius 5 hours.

I'm Canadian. I have the unfortunate experience of pretty not having the choice to fly with them. THEY ARE TERRIBLE.

Worst comfort that I’ve ever experienced on a flight

The flight was smooth and on time. Check-in and boarding was very efficient. The flight was very comfortable and there was good entertainment and food on offer.

The seats were uncomfortable. It was an old plane. The crew could have been more hospitable.

I would have preferred something lighter for the second meal. Maybe a small sandwich .

They allowed some guy to move seats after 3hours of him being next to someone very sick, There were several empty seats, but they moved him to mine. I find that incredibly inconsiderate and should not have been done.

Overall, terrific service, accommodations, and experience. Only reason comfort was rated lower was because it was difficult to keep a comfortable sleeping position for the overnight flight, but I also had an economy seat.

Entertainment catalog certainly needs an upgrade to include better and latest content. Food was not good at all - they need to cook something edible. Five starts to the crew and on tim performance of British airways though!!

The flight was nearly empty so we were welcomed to spread out and relax. There was some turbulence but nothing too scary. The crew was lovely!! They engaged in conversation and were very friendly! The food is terrible!!! Horrible wooden utensils, they barely pierce the food or cut anything. I sat in basic economy and was very comfortable. Customer service at the desk was polite and helpful.

This was a late night flight but the lights was on all the time and kids were screaming and many people were so loud. I was expecting to have a little rest on the plane considering it is late night but this way I couldn't. I think if at least the light would've been off / lower then people could feel they should be quieter.

British Airways canceled our plane and gave us a new flight scheduled to leave in only three hours, so we had to drop everything and rush to the airport. The new itinerary only left us a one hour layover in Madrid, which was too short because the plane landed late and so we missed our connecting flight. We were then booked onto a flight scheduled to take off 8 hours later, and were not given any compensation or remedial measures.

Despite many attempts to work out a change, neither British Airways nor Kayak nor Chatdeal would allow us to cancel or change this flight so we lost all of the payments when we were not able to fly. Absolutely terrible customer service. We will never use either of the services again.

The entertainment system in the plane ✈️ didn’t work in our row… makes for a MUCH longer flight.

Book Cheap Europe Plane Tickets

Recent round-trip flight deals, search by stops, search by airline, search by price, recent one-way flight deals, last minute flights to europe, last minute flight, train and bus deals, flights to europe, return flight deals:.

Europe - Canada

Cabin classes:

Browse origins:.

• Flights  » 

Browse destinations:

• Worldwide  » 

Create an account

• Gain access to free articles
• Daily free newsletter(s)
• Ability to comment on most articles
• Build your 3D avatar and gain points

• Everything in the Free plan
• Ad-free reading and browsing
• Unlimited access to all content including AI summaries
• Directly support our local and national reporting and become a Patron
• Cancel anytime.

Forgot password

Please enter your email and we'll send you a new password request code.

Please complete your profile to unlock commenting and other important features.

This is a Pro feature.

Time to level up your local game with narcity pro..

Canadians Will Soon Be Charged For Visiting Europe & Here's What You Need To Know

The change comes into effect this year. 👇

The Eiffel Tower in Paris. Right: The European Union flag.

Canadians dreaming of a European vacation in 2023 will have to be prepared to spend a little more thanks to a new fee being introduced this year.

The European Union is set to implement a new visa waiver system that will charge travellers from certain countries a fee to enter, including those from Canada.

The European Travel Information and Authorization System, or ETIAS , applies to countries where travellers do not need a visa to enter Europe.

The ETIAS is an electronic system that allows the EU to keep track of visitors from these countries, according to the Schengen visa website .

According to the site, the ETIAS will "undergo a detailed security check of each applicant to determine whether they can be allowed to enter any Schengen Zone country," aka one of 27 countries in the EU that have removed their internal borders.

This includes places like France, Germany, Greece, Portugal and Italy. It does not include nations in the U.K., like England, Scotland and Wales.

The ETIAS will keep track of these travellers in addition to making sure they aren't a security threat.

"All in all, the ETIAS authorization will make travelling to the EU less of a hassle and a much safer experience," reads the website.

The ETIAS is set to cost 7 euros (or around $10) for each application for a person over 18 years old. Those under 18 years of age do not have to pay any fees.

While the process for implementing ETIAS began in 2016, the system is expected to be fully operational later this year, so if you're planning a vacation to Europe this year, you may need to apply for one.

How to apply for the ETIAS

The application is said to take about 10 minutes to fill out and can be done online.

In some "very exceptional cases," the maximum time needed for approval could be up to a month, according to a memo issued by the EU and obtained by CNN .

Some basic personal information will be required, including your name, date of birth, citizenship information and address.

Applicants will also be asked to give details about their education and work experience as well as the first EU country they plan to visit.

There will also be eligibility questions about the applicant's medical condition and criminal records, among other things.

The ETIAS will be processed immediately after you submit your answers and pay the fee, to be either approved or denied. If your application is denied, you can either appeal the decision or re-apply.

Once approved, your ETIAS will be sent to you by email and stored electronically, so there's no need to print it out.

The ETIAS is valid for three years, or until your passport expires.

The system isn't set to become fully operational until November 2023, so there may still be time to get in a European vacation and avoid paying.

Bon voyage!

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

• Europe Tweaked Its ETIAS Plan To Charge Visitors & Here's When You'll Have To Start Paying​ ›
• 9 Things That Will Totally Confuse Canadians When They Visit Europe & Some Will Surprise You ›
• 7 Differences I Notice As A Canadian Travelling In Europe & Some Are Low-Key Embarrassing ›
• These 15 Countries Charge Canadians To Visit & Here's What To Know Before Travelling - Narcity ›
• WestJet Is Cancelling Most Of Its Summer Service To Europe & Here Are Your Other Options - Narcity ›
• Some Canadian Airports Are Increasing Travel Fees & Here's What Passengers Should Know - Narcity ›
• 7 Countries In Europe Where Canadians Can Work Remotely For Up To A Year - Narcity ›
• You Can Get Paid To Travel Around Europe On Sleeper Trains & It’s The Ultimate One-Month Trip - Narcity ›
• 8 Things Canadians Need To Know Before Travelling To Europe This Summer - Narcity ›
• This Stunning European City Is Way Cheaper To Visit Than Paris & It’s A Slice Of Luxury - Narcity ›
• 6 Money Mistakes I Made While Travelling In Europe That Canadians Need To Know - Narcity ›
• 6 European Cities That Canadians Need To Visit, According To Someone Who Grew Up There - Narcity ›
• 10 tips for Canadians travelling to Europe in 2024, from visa requirements to tipping culture - Narcity ›

Already have an account? Log in

Create an account to keep reading.

1. choose a plan.

Limited access to free articles

Unlimited access to all content, AI summaries, ad-free browsing and directly support our reporting by becoming a Patron 🙏. Cancel anytime.

2. Create your account

11 countries that canadian passport holders will have to pay to visit in 2024, 14 countries canadian passport holders can visit for up to 90 days without a visa in 2024, 10 tips for canadians travelling to europe in 2024, from visa requirements to tipping culture, everything you need to know about renewing your canadian passport in 2024, 9 countries canadian passport holders can visit visa-free for up to a year, nexus fees could more than double this year so here's how to get it before costs go up, 8 features of the new canadian passport that make it so different from the old one, canadians can work remotely in italy for up to a year thanks to a new digital nomad visa, renewing your canadian passport: what's the deal with online renewals in 2024, canada is updating rules for international students & here's what you need to know, canada fell in a new ranking of the world's most powerful passports & here's what that means, canada travel news: visa exemptions, the best places to visit in 2024 & more you need to know.

Language selection

• Français fr

Travel information

Top questions about passports.

• How do I check my application status ?
• When should I renew my passport ?
• I’m a dual citizen. Do I need my Canadian passport to return to Canada ?
• Can I renew my passport instead of applying for a new one ?
• What should I do if my passport is lost, damaged or stolen ?
• How do I open your application forms ?

See more questions in the Help Centre

Travelling in general

There isn’t a specific answer to this question. This is because each country has its own entry requirements.

Always check the entry and exit requirements for all countries you’re going to visit before making your plans. Then check your passport to see when it expires. This will tell you whether you need to renew your passport yet.

All countries have their own entry requirements. Read the  travel advisories  to view the entry and exit requirements of each country.

Since these requirements can change, you may also check with the  Government of Canada office  of the country you visit.

You shouldn’t travel with a passport that will expire during your trip or shortly after your planned return. To avoid problems while travelling, you should get a new passport before leaving if your passport could expire around or during your travels.

Some countries won’t allow you to enter if your passport expires shortly after your planned return date. To find out more about entry and exit requirements, consult the:

• travel advisories
• Government of Canada office  of the country you will be visiting

You should make all travel arrangements in the name on your passport.

If the names don't match, you may have problems at border crossings or when boarding flights.

Check with the authorities in the destination country to find out if you need any other documents.

Travelling with children

We strongly recommend that your child carry a consent letter if they’re travelling abroad:

• friends or relatives
• only one parent/guardian

For the purposes of the consent letter, a Canadian child is defined as anyone who is under the age of majority (18 or 19, depending on the province or territory of residence).

Learn more about children travelling abroad and get a  sample consent letter at Travel.gc.ca .

Page details

• How to Choose the Right Credit Card
• How to Apply for a Credit Card
• How to Cancel a Credit Card
• Ways To Pay Off Credit Card Debt
• Why Your Credit Card Was Declined
• How to Get Out of Credit Card Debt
• What to Know About Credit Card Minimum Payments
• What Is a Credit Card and Should You Get One?
• How Do Credit Cards Work in Canada?
• What Are the Different Types of Credit Cards?
• How an International Credit Card Works
• Common Credit Card Terms and Conditions
• Credit Card Fees and Charges
• Credit Card Interest Calculator
• First-Time Home Buyer Incentive
• Tax-Free First Home Savings Account
• Home Equity Loan
• How a Reverse Mortgage Works
• Home Equity Line of Credit
• Mortgage Renewal
• Getting a Second Mortgage
• How to Refinance a Mortgage
• How Does Mortgage Interest Work?
• Realtors vs Real Estate Agents vs Brokers
• Is Canada’s Housing Market Crashing?
• Types of Houses in Canada
• First-Time Home Buyer Grants and Assistance Programs
• Types of Mortgages in Canada: Which Is Right for You?
• How Does a Mortgage Work in Canada?

• What Is an Interest Rate?
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
• Savings Account Guide
• Common Canadian Bank Fees and Charges
• Types of Bank Accounts in Canada
• EQ Bank Review
• Simplii Financial Review
• Tangerine Bank Review
• National Bank of Canada Review
• CIBC Review
• Scotiabank Review
• TD Bank Review
• What Is Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF) Coverage?
• How Capital Gains Tax Works
• Investing for Canadian Beginners
• Understanding Asset Classes in Investing
• Understanding Fixed-Income Investments
• How to Invest in Stocks
• What Are T-Bills
• What is a Bond
• What is Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)
• What Are Mutual Funds
• What is an ETF (Exchange Traded Fund)
• What Is Forex Trading
• What Is Cryptocurrency and How Does It Work
• What Is a Stock
• What is Old Age Security and How Does It Work
• What is Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs)
• How a Life Income Fund (LIF) Works for Retirement
• What Is An In-Trust Account
• What Is a Locked-in Retirement Account (LIRA)
• How Much Money You’ll Need To Retire
• Defined Benefit vs. Defined Contribution Pension Plans
• Can Annuities Fund Your Retirement?
• What Is a Personal Loan?
• Personal Loan Insurance: Do You Need It?
• What Is a Secured Personal Loan?
• What Is a Payday Loan?
• What Is a Pawn Loan?
• What Is a Car Title Loan?
• Small Business Loan vs Personal Loan
• Personal Loan vs. Line of Credit
• Personal Line of Credit vs Home Equity Loan:
• Personal Line of Credit vs Car Loan
• HELOC vs Personal Loan
• Debt Consolidation vs Personal Loan
• Cash Advance vs Personal Loan
• Business Loan vs Personal Loan
• Price Matching Tips to Help You Save Big
• How to save for Wedding
• How to Save Money on Groceries
• Ways to Save on Your Next Family Vacation
• Tips to Help You Save On Gas
• How to Save Money in 8 Easy Steps
• Passive Income: What It Is and How to Make It
• Budgeting 101: How to Budget Your Money
• Ways to Make Money Online and Offline in Canada
• How Do Credit Inquiries Work?
• What is the Ideal Credit Utilization Ratio?
• What Credit Score is Needed for a Credit Card?
• How to Get a Better Credit Score
• What is a Good Credit Score in Canada?
• Credit Cards

The Best Way to Use a Credit Card Overseas

Using a credit card is one of the best ways to manage your money when overseas. You may still need to get some of the local currency, but charging most of your purchases will help you carry less cash.

No matter what bank or credit card provider you deal with, using a credit card internationally should, in most cases, be no different from using one at home. But there are a few tips and tricks to consider, both before you depart and while you’re away, to help you save money while shopping abroad.

What to do before your trip

In addition to deciding which credit card will be making the journey with you, there are a few other steps to take to ensure your credit card transactions don’t cause any unnecessary headaches.

Contact your bank

Although most credit cards have security features in place to spot and prevent potential credit card fraud, you may want to call your issuer in advance to let them know about your travel plans. Charging something to your card halfway around the world from where you live might look suspicious, and that may trigger an automatic block that prevents you from using your card. Putting a note on your account will ensure that doesn’t happen.

Optimize — and remember — your PIN

If your credit card is secured with a PIN, make sure it is only four digits, as many terminals outside of Canada don’t accept longer PINs. Don’t worry if a merchant doesn’t have a tap or an insert option available. You can still swipe your card to make purchases.

If you’re not in the habit of using your card in person and entering your PIN, be sure you commit it to memory before you hit the road.

» MORE: Using a ZIP code when you frequently travel to the U.S.

Bring backup payment methods

For some added security, you may want to bring more than one credit card whenever you travel. This means you’ll have a backup payment option in case your primary card doesn’t work or gets lost.

Having some money in your pocket is also advisable, especially if you’re travelling to remote areas where electronic payments might be less common. A debit card, although it might cost you in fees, is worth bringing in case you absolutely need to hit an ATM to get your hands on some cash.

Consider a credit card with no foreign transaction fees

Most credit cards in Canada charge a foreign transaction fee of 2.5% on any purchase that’s not in Canadian dollars. While the fee may seem low, it adds up over time — especially on a vacation where you might make several transactions each day.

Fortunately, there are a few credit cards without foreign transaction fees . Research and apply for one of these cards well in advance of your trip, and you’ll be able to use your credit card normally and pay only the exchange rate on your purchases, no extra fees .

» MORE: Should I get a travel card?

Watch out for dynamic currency conversion

Converting between currencies in your head can be a bit complicated. To make things easier for you, some merchants allow you to choose whether to pay in the local currency or your home currency to make things easier for you. This practice is known as dynamic currency conversion, and it shows you exactly how much you’ll be charged in Canadian dollars.

It may be tempting to select CAD when paying with your credit card, but the exchange rate is unlikely to work in your favour because it typically includes additional fees for the convenience of seeing your total in CAD. 

If you choose to pay in the local currency, you’re paying the rate set by Visa, Mastercard, or American Express. This is likely much closer to the regular exchange rate. Either way, you’ll still pay a foreign transaction fee unless you have a credit card that doesn’t charge one.

Check your credit card statements when you get home

You should always review your monthly credit card statements , but doing so after you travel is vital. Cross-reference the charges with what you purchased and double-check to ensure that the amounts shown are correct. If there’s a transaction you don’t recognize, you may need to open a fraud investigation.

Using your credit card overseas doesn’t need to be complicated, and it shouldn’t be minimize your fees and security risks. Opting for a credit card that offers travel perks like insurance and lounge access can make using a credit card internationally even more rewarding.

Frequently asked questions about using credit cards overseas

Whether you’re a Visa, Mastercard or American Express credit card holder, you should be able to use your credit card internationally. It shouldn’t matter which bank you get your credit card from, either. If you have an RBC, CIBC, TD or BMO credit card, for example, it should enable you to make purchases when you’re overseas.

Different countries use different payment systems, so your debit card may not be an option when you’re shopping or trying to pay for a meal in some countries. In these cases, a credit card might be more reliable. Each one will likely charge you fees.

About the Authors

Barry Choi is a freelance personal finance and travel expert. His website moneywehave.com is one of Canada's most trusted sites when it comes to all things related to money and…

Clay Jarvis is NerdWallet’s mortgage and real estate expert in Canada. Thus far, his entire professional writing career has revolved around real estate. Prior to joining NerdWallet, he was the…

DIVE EVEN DEEPER

18 Best Travel Credit Cards in Canada for May 2024

Explore the best travel credit cards in Canada for daily spending, flexible travel rewards, big welcome bonuses and more.

2022 Canadian Holiday Travel Report

Canadians are worried about inflation’s impact on holiday travel costs and plan to sacrifice comfort and convenience to trim travel expenses in 2022.

Popular Loyalty Programs for Canadians Who Love to Travel

Loyalty programs and co-branded credit cards are two of the quickest ways to earn points and miles.

'You're not fighting the crowds' in Europe when you visit on a river cruise

Europe has no shortage of marquee tourist hot spots , but Diamond Meadows’ first river cruise there didn’t include them.

The 28-year-old graduate student took a cruise along the Rhine and Moselle rivers that took her to cities like Koblenz and Trier in Germany (she supplemented the sailing with train travel around Austria, Switzerland and elsewhere).

Meadows was traveling with her mom and her mom’s boss, who uses a wheelchair. The group chose the CroisiEurope Cruises sailing for the ease of sailing with a mobility device . But she discovered other upsides.

“It takes you exactly into the heart of the city,” said Meadows, who is based in Tennessee. Their roughly 160-guest vessel offered convenient drop-offs in smaller destinations, allowing them “to access so much more.”

Many European destinations were packed with tourists last summer . But river cruises in the continent can offer a more laid-back way to travel with small ships visiting a mix of popular and less-crowded ports.

Are river cruises better than ocean cruises?

Jen Campbell Boles, founder of the travel agency Explore More Family Travel, said that while cruising in general is a “great value for seeing Europe,” river sailings are particularly immersive. “One quote we always use in the travel industry is, ‘Ocean cruise liners take you to the destination, river cruises take us through the destination,’” she said.

Passengers visit not only major cities but also quaint villages and often disembark within walking distance of attractions. When they are done exploring, they return to a ship with an average of 150 guests.

“It's more intimate, it's cozier,” said Campbell Boles. “You're not fighting the crowds, obviously.”

That was part of the draw for Jim Jones, 57, who took Avalon Waterways river cruises with his wife in 2011 and 2014.

“The smaller cities were an attraction,” said Jones, who is based in Phoenix and works for a software company. He enjoyed visiting Avignon in the south of France, for example, which was once the seat of the papacy . “I’m a total history geek,” he said. On their first cruise, he recalled, “just about every town” they visited had a farmers’ market, allowing them to sample local food.

'Access to hidden-gem ports': Why this luxury yacht is the best option for beach lovers

Unlike ocean cruise ships, with their large casinos and plentiful bars, onboard “it was very relaxed and a much slower pace.”

River cruise vessels tend to have “less bells and whistles,” Campbell Boles said (though she added that guests get a more personalized experience as a result of their small size).

Adam Duckworth, president and founder of Travelmation, echoed that. He said the cruises are less about the ship than where it’s going. “This is truly an experience about itineraries.”

Are European river cruises cheaper than land-based trips?

While travelers can find land-based accommodations that are less expensive than river cruises, there are other factors to consider.

River cruises tend to bundle more costs, such as alcohol in the fare, than a mainstream ocean cruise line, Duckworth said (though exact policies vary by line). At least one excursion per day is typically included, as well, Campbell Boles added.

She said demand for Europe is still “through the roof” and land-based pricing is particularly high. “Even if you're staying in the highest category stateroom or suite, you're spending less than an equivalent hotel,” she said.

Are luxury cruise ships worth the money? We did the math for Silversea's Silver Nova.

Would you spend $14,000 on a cruise? Here's why these travelers splurged.

Transportation from one destination to another is also built into a river cruise, whereas travelers might have to take a train or make other arrangements to visit a mix of places. “I mean that really adds up in Europe, so this is a great way to see a lot more variety,” Campbell Boles said.

Passengers can also add pre- and post-cruise stays, allowing them to “get the best of both worlds.”

“What we say is that a river cruise oftentimes can be a premium product,” added Duckworth. “But for what you're experiencing – the comfort, the (lower) stress, the luxurious experience on board – we find it to be actually the best value through Europe from our experience.”

Are European river cruises kid-friendly?

Since river cruises require a certain amount of free time – most are at least seven days long – they have tended to be popular with older guests, according to Duckworth.

But in the past couple of years, he has noticed more multigenerational travel in the sector. “We're seeing grandparents bring their grandkids, we're seeing young professionals go on a river in Europe for the first time,” Duckworth said.

Some operators have offerings that are particularly well-suited to younger guests. Adventures by Disney offers river cruises with AmaWaterways, and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has a Generations Collection .

How long should I go on a cruise?: How long and short cruises compare

Even if programming is curated with kids in mind, though, Duckworth cautioned that river cruise vessels don’t offer the same breadth of amenities as large ocean ships. “If your kids want to go to a waterpark and they want to go on a FlowRider and they want to play putt-putt all day, there are great lines for you, but a European river cruise is probably not one of them currently,” he said.

Some lines also don’t allow kids or have varying age requirements, so it’s important to do some research beforehand.

For those going for the first time, Campbell Boles suggested starting with a cruise on the Danube or Rhine since they are “kind of the most iconic.”

“I mean, it’s Europe,” she added. “It’s going to be great no matter what river you go on.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville, Tennessee. You can reach him at [email protected].

• Skip to main content
• Skip to site information

Language selection

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

Travel documents

Know which documents you need and where to get them to make your travel quick and easy.

Identification documents

Canadian passports.

A passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel identification document and it proves that you have a right to return to Canada 

Canadian Travel Number

Avoid delays at the airport because your name is the same as, or similar to, that of someone on the No Fly List ( Secure Air Travel Act list)

NEXUS                                                  

If you travel between Canada and the United States often, a NEXUS card will save you time at the border

Permanent resident card

Permanent residents of Canada need a permanent resident card to re-enter Canada

Pre-boarding identification requirements

Information on the identification documents you need to bring to the airport

Travel documents for non-Canadians

Travel documents for convention refugees, protected persons or stateless persons living in Canada

Permits and certificates

Find out whether you need a visa for your destination and get it well in advance of your trip

Certificate of Canadian citizenship

A Canadian citizenship certificate is not a valid travel document

CITES permits

Information on permits to transport, import or export a listed wildlife species or items made from listed wildlife species

International Driving Permit

Your Canadian driver's licence may not be valid in your destination country

Travelling outside Canada with your vehicle

You may need a Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) to travel outside Canada with your vehicle.

International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis

Some countries may require you to show proof of vaccination  

Your pets need travel documents to enter another country

CANPASS - Private aircraft

CANPASS cards allow private aircraft to clear customs and immigration quickly and securely

More information

Consent letter for children travelling abroad.

A consent letter helps children travelling without both parents to enter foreign countries and re-enter Canada

Marriage outside Canada

Information on the legal issues involved in getting married abroad 

Notarial services

Information about getting notarial services while you are outside Canada

Travelling as a dual citizen

Information for Canadian dual citizens who are travelling to another country where they have citizenship

Travel insurance

Buy travel insurance before you travel outside Canada. Bring your insurance information with you. You may need to prove you have travel insurance to enter some countries

Mobile Passport Control app

Travellers can shorten the entry process to the U.S. by submitting their passport and customs declaration information through this app

What we are doing

Policies, acts and regulations.

• Canadian Passport Order
• Citizenship Act
• Identity Screening Regulations

Publications

• Bon voyage, but... Essential information for Canadian travellers
• Travelling with children

All related publications

• Apply online for a visa, study or work permit
• Steps to complete a passport application
• Nexus application
• CANPASS application
• CITES permit application forms

Find helpful information on health and safety, travel documents, baggage, airport security, country advice and more.

Information on a recommended consent letter for Canadian children travelling abroad.

You need a valid Canadian passport to board a flight to Canada.