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Evacuations - FAQ
- What is the individual's responsibility in case of an emergency evacuation while abroad?
- In what situations will the government of Canada assist in the evacuation of its citizens?
- Where can I get more information on this issue?
1. What is the individual’s responsibility in case of an emergency evacuation while abroad?
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The Government of Canada takes very seriously the safety and security of Canadians abroad and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports to help Canadians make informed travel choices. You are responsible for your own personal safety. You should carefully evaluate the implications for your security and safety before travelling to and/or remaining in a country currently affected by a dangerous situation.
In the event of a natural disaster or civil emergency, listen to local news broadcasts for updates on the situation. Keep a low profile and maintain close contact with your family to inform them of your situation. Carry an emergency kit so that you will always be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.
Individuals abroad who receive evacuation assistance from the Government of Canada are required to pay for any travel beyond a safe haven. They must also repay the cost of evacuation as soon as possible upon their return to Canada.
If you find yourself in a deteriorating situation, you should consider leaving if you can do so safely.
The Government of Canada recommands that you register with the responsible Canadian government office abroad so that our representatives can contact and assist you in an emergency in a foreign country.
2. In what situations will the Government of Canada assist in the evacuation of its citizens?
Situations vary from country to country. There may be constraints on government resources that limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries where the potential for violent conflict or political instability is high. In the event of a crisis that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide transportation to Canadian travellers to the nearest safe haven.
Canada sometimes coordinates evacuation assistance in cooperation with other countries such as Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
The Government of Canada may assist Canadians in leaving a country as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. However, doing so may not always be possible in unstable situations. Crises have ranged from hurricanes in the Caribbean, to the tsunami in South Asia, to warfare in Lebanon.
This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Individuals who receive evacuation assistance from the Government of Canada are required to pay for any travel beyond a safe haven. They must also repay the cost of evacuation as soon as possible upon their return to Canada.
The Government of Canada recommands that you register with the responsible Canadian government office abroad so that our representatives can contact and assist you in an emergency in a foreign country.
3. Where can I get more information on this issue?
Consult our FAQ on the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and our Emergencies page. You may also obtain obtain more information from our Global Issues and Travel Reports and Warnings sections.
