Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ). The answers provide information that supplements our Registration of Canadians Abroad service and our list of services offered.

1. What is the Registration of Canadians Abroad service?
2. Who should register?
3. What type of information must I provide when I register?
4. When should I register?
5. How do I register?
6. If I have already registered for a previous trip, do I need to do so again?
7. If I do not register, can I still be contacted and assisted in an emergency?
8. Will my information be shared with other parties?

1. What is the Registration of Canadians Abroad service?

The Registration of Canadians Abroad is a free service that enables you to sign up so that government officials can contact and assist you in case of an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of an emergency at home.

2. Who should register?

All Canadians travelling or living abroad should register.

3. What type of information must I provide when I register?

You will need to provide travel information and personal details, such as your passport number, residency information in the destination country, and emergency contact information in Canada.

4. When should I register?

It is best to register before leaving Canada, but you can also register while abroad.

5. How do I register?

You can register on-line. If you are already abroad, you can also register by contacting the nearest Canadian government office. Please complete all required fields in the on-line or printed registration form.

6. If I have already registered for a previous trip, do I need to do so again?

An improved registration system replaced the old one on December 14, 2008. Due to the system upgrade, past registrations are no longer valid. If you registered before December 14, 2008, you MUST register again in the new system in order to receive further safety and security updates.

7. If I do not register, can I still be contacted and assisted in an emergency?        

If you choose not to register to the Registration of Canadians Abroad service, you are strongly advised to make the following arrangements before your departure so that the Government of Canada can contact you in case of an emergency:

• leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact details with family or friends in Canada;
• provide family or friends with the telephone number for our Emergency Operations Centre; and
• carry contact information for the Canadian government offices abroad in the countries you plan to visit.

8. Will my information be shared with other parties?

Personal information obtained through registration is confidential and is used in accordance with the provisions of the Privacy Act.