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Do I need a Canadian passport to travel abroad?

We recommend that all travellers have their own valid Canadian passport for all trips abroad, even when travelling to countries that accept other documentation.

Before leaving Canada, be sure to complete the “In case of accident or death, notify” section (page 4) in your passport. Photocopy the identification page of your passport and carry it separately while abroad. Also, leave a photocopy at home. Be sure to verify all passport expiration dates, as some countries will not let you enter if your passport is due to expire within six months.

What travel documents should I use as a dual citizen?

Where permitted by the laws of the country in question, Canadians holding dual citizenship are encouraged to use their Canadian passport when travelling abroad and to present themselves as Canadians to foreign authorities, in order to ensure access to consular services from the Government of Canada in case of problems. For details, refer to our booklet entitled Dual Citizenship: What You Need to Know.

Can I use a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship as a travel document?

You cannot use a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship instead of a Canadian passport to travel abroad. A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

What travel documents do my children need to go abroad?

All children require their own passport and supporting identification, such as a birth certificate or citizenship card. It is strongly recommended that children travelling alone or with one parent carry a consent letter (certified, stamped, or sealed by an official with the authority to administer an oath or solemn declaration) for each trip abroad. See the Consular Services Web site for additional information and a sample consent letter.

Do I need a visa or other documents?

You need a visa to enter certain countries. Visas are issued by foreign government offices in Canada. Well before going abroad, check with the embassy or consulate in Canada of any country you plan to visit regarding visas, waivers, immunization records and other documentation requirements.

Where can I get more information?

Visit our Travel Reports & Warnings page for information on country-specific travel documentation requirements. You may also call Consular Services at 1-800-267-6788 or 613-944-6788 or e-mail travel@international.gc.ca. Contact the nearest Passport Canada office or visit www.passport.gc.ca regarding passport applications and renewals.

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Consular Services

Consular Services website
www.travel.gc.ca

General
Tel.: 1-800-267-6788 (in Canada and the U.S.) or 613-944-6788
TTY: 1-800-394-3472 (in Canada and the U.S.) or 613-944-1310
E-mail: travel@international.gc.ca

Emergencies
Tel.: 613-996-8885 (call collect from abroad where available)
E-mail: sos@international.gc.ca

Drugs and Travel Information Program
www.travel.gc.ca/drugs

Publications (free)
Access our smart-travel publications or order them by calling 1-800-267-8376 (in Canada) or 613-944-4000.

Country Travel Reports
Our Travel Reports provide vital information on safety and security, local laws and  customs, health conditions, and entry requirements for approximately 200 travel destinations. This information is also available by phone: 1-800-267-6788 (in Canada and the U.S.) or 613-944-6788.

Diplomatic Offices
Canadian government offices abroad:
www.travel.gc.ca/offices 

Visit our For More Information page.

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Enquiries Service
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
125 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, ON K1A 0G2
Tel.: 1-800-267-8376 (in Canada) or 613-944-4000
E-mail: enqserv@international.gc.ca

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