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. How can I update my account information?

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, no matter where they are going or how long they will be abroad.

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 or by mail, fax or in person (PDF document).

6. How can I update my account information?

If you registered online, you can sign in to update your account information.

If you registered by mail, fax or in person, you must:

• contact the responsible Canadian government office abroad to update your account information; and
• complete a new registration form for each trip abroad.

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 Watch and Response 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.