Travel and Identification Documents for Entering Canada

Created: Dec 28, 2023 | Updated: Jan 2, 2024

In Canada, having the correct travel and identification documents is important for anyone who wants to visit. This requirement, a cornerstone of Canada's immigration policy, ensures the country's security and the traveller's legality. It reflects Canada's commitment to maintaining organized and safe borders while balancing the need for open and welcoming entry to tourists, immigrants, and returning residents.

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The history of immigration documentation in Canada reflects the nation's evolution as a multicultural society and its responses to global changes. Canada, popularly known for its welcoming attitude towards immigrants, has continually adapted its documentation processes like most developed countries, to maintain both security and accessibility.

Early Immigration and Documentation
In the early 19th century, immigration to Canada was less regulated. The primary immigrants were European settlers, and the documentation required was minimal, often just basic identification or letters of introduction. This period lacked strict border controls, and immigration was primarily driven by the need for labour in the expanding territories.

The Emergence of Passports and Visas
As the world moved into the 20th century, the need for more formal documentation arose. The concept of passports and visas as we know them today began to take shape after World War I. Canada, aligning with global trends, started to implement more structured immigration policies, requiring passports and visas for entry. This shift was partly due to increased concerns over national security and the desire to regulate and record the flow of people.

Post-WWII Immigration Boom
The period following World War II marked a significant change in Canadian immigration policy. The introduction of the Canadian Citizenship Act in 1947 established a distinct Canadian citizenship, separate from British nationality. This era saw a relaxation of immigration policies, particularly for European immigrants, leading to a boom in immigration, necessitating more organized documentation processes.

Technological Advancements and Modernization
The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw significant technological advancements impacting immigration documentation. The introduction of computerized systems and biometrics has made tracking and processing immigration applications more efficient and secure. The focus shifted towards ensuring authenticity and preventing fraud, with advanced features like electronic passports and visas.

Health-Related Documentation
The recent global health crises, notably the COVID-19 pandemic, led to additional layers in immigration documentation. Health declarations, vaccination records, and negative test results became temporarily mandatory for travellers. Canada was at the forefront of integrating health documentation into the immigration process, illustrating its responsiveness to global health concerns.

In response to the need for more efficient and contactless processing, Canada introduced the ArriveCAN platform. This digital system allows travellers to submit their travel and health-related information before arrival, streamlining the entry process and addressing health and safety concerns.

 

Types of Travel Documents in Canada

1. Identity documents
   - National ID
   - Birth certificate
   - Driver’s licence
   - Certificate of Identity (issued to permanent residents of Canada who cannot obtain a national passport for travel)
   - NEXUS card (if applicable)
   - FAST card (if applicable)
   - Custody rights (for children)
   - Police certificates
   - Employment records
   - Death certificate (if applicable)
    
2. Health-related documents
   - Medical certificates
   - Vaccination certificates|
   - COVID-19 test results, or a quarantine plan
    
3. Proof of Financial Means
   - Bank statement
   - Salary slips
   - Investment portfolio
    
4. Travel documents
   - Passport
   - Visa
   - Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
   - Return Ticket or Onward Travel Arrangements
   - Travel Itinerary while in Canada (hotel receipts, resort bookings or proof of conference attendance).
   - Letter of Invitation
   - Consent Letter for Minors
   - Study Permit
   - Work Permit
   - Canadian citizenship card
   - Temporary Resident Permit
   - Provincial Nominee Program Documentation
   - Refugee Travel Document

Fundamentally, when gathering your documents to visit Canada as a foreigner (specifically from a country whose official language is not English/French), you are required by the Canadian government to employ a Certified translation service in Canada. Getting certified translations for all your foreign language documents ensures that the immigration authority can read and process your information to issue a visa and admit you into Canada. The importance of certified translation cannot be overemphasized. 

 

Visa Information

Before applying for a visa, you should know if you are from a country that requires a visa to enter Canada or not. The visa requirements for Canada are categorized into two groups:

• Visa-exempt countries: Residents of these countries do not need a visa to enter Canada but require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when entering Canada by air.
   
• Visa-required countries: Residents need to apply for a visa before travelling to Canada. The type of visa – whether a tourist, student, or work visa – depends on the purpose of the visit.

 

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

The eTA is a necessary pre-screening for visitors from visa-exempt countries. This electronic system links the eTA to your passport and is valid for five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. The application process is straightforward and can be completed online. Applicants typically receive their eTA approval within minutes, but it's advised to apply at least a few days before your trip.

 

Different Travel Circumstances and Their Requirements

 

Travel with Children and Minors

When travelling to Canada with children, additional documentation is crucial. Apart from the child's passport, a consent letter authenticated by a notary public is recommended, especially if travelling with one parent or guardian. This letter should state that the child has permission to travel abroad from parents or guardians not accompanying them. For unaccompanied minors, contact information of parents or guardians must be provided. In cases of custody issues, legal documents proving custody rights are required. Additionally, Canada may request documentation related to the child's vaccinations, depending on current health regulations.

 

Establishing Canadian Citizenship

To establish Canadian citizenship, the primary document required is the Canadian citizenship certificate. Other documents include a Canadian birth certificate for those born in Canada or a Certificate of Naturalization for individuals who acquired citizenship through naturalization. In some cases, additional supporting documents like the Record of Landing (IMM 1000) or Confirmation of Permanent Residence may be requested.

 

Residents Returning to Canada

Permanent residents of Canada returning to the country need to present either a valid Permanent Resident Card (PR Card) or a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) if they don’t have a PR Card. It’s important to note that permanent residents must meet the residency obligation (being physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within the last five years) to retain their status.

 

Temporary Resident Permits (TRP)

Temporary Resident Permits are issued in special circumstances where an individual may not otherwise be allowed to enter or stay in Canada, such as past criminality or health issues. The application for a TRP can be made at a Canadian visa office or the point of entry and must include detailed reasons for the request, supporting documents (like court or medical records), and a processing fee. Each case is evaluated based on individual circumstances.

 

Dual Citizenship Considerations

For dual citizens, Canada requires that they enter the country with a valid Canadian passport, even if they hold a passport from another country. This rule ensures streamlined entry at the border and adherence to Canadian legal requirements. Dual citizens not in possession of a Canadian passport might need to apply for special authorization or use their other passport in conjunction with an eTA (if they are from a visa-exempt country).

 

Who Cannot Enter Canada?

When you are planning a trip to Canada, you need to be aware of the circumstances under which you may be denied entry. Here are some common reasons why you may be prohibited from entering Canada:

Criminal Inadmissibility

• Criminal History: Individuals with a criminal record, including for crimes such as theft, assault, manslaughter, dangerous driving, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and possession of or trafficking drugs or controlled substances, may be denied entry.
• Rehabilitation: If enough time has passed since the completion of the sentence, individuals may apply for rehabilitation, a process that, if approved, removes the grounds of criminal inadmissibility.

Security Reasons

• Espionage or Subversion: Activities that threaten Canada's security, such as espionage, violence, or terrorism, are grounds for inadmissibility.
• Membership in Terrorist Organizations: Those affiliated with organizations involved in terrorism, violent conflict, or human rights violations are likely to be barred from entry.

Health Grounds

• Public Health Risk: Visitors with certain contagious diseases that might pose a public health risk can be denied entry. This is evaluated based on the current health concerns and policies in Canada.
• Excessive Demand on Health or Social Services: If an individual’s condition is likely to place an excessive burden on Canada's health or social services, this may result in inadmissibility.

Financial Reasons

• Insufficient Financial Resources: Travelers who cannot demonstrate the financial means to support themselves and their dependents during their stay might be denied entry.

Misrepresentation

• False Information or Withholding Information: Providing false information or failing to provide necessary information on visa applications or at the border can lead to a denial of entry.

Non-Compliance with Immigration Law

• Violation of Immigration Laws: Past violations of immigration laws, either in Canada or elsewhere, can be a reason for inadmissibility.

Family Member Inadmissibility

• Inadmissible Family Member: Sometimes, if a family member (even those not accompanying) is inadmissible, this could affect one's eligibility to enter Canada.

It's important to note that some inadmissibility grounds may be overcome under certain conditions, such as obtaining a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) or undergoing criminal rehabilitation. The complexity of these issues often necessitates consulting with immigration professionals or legal advisors to understand the specific circumstances and potential remedies.

 

Tips for Hassle-Free Travel to Canada

1. Research and understand the entry requirements for your situation.
2. Consider getting travel insurance that covers health emergencies. This is not mandatory but highly recommended.
3. Check for special documentation like travelling with pets or minors.
4. Prepare for Customs and Border Control. Declare any goods exceeding your personal exemption limits, and prepare for the procedural questioning.
5. Plan for your stay. This may include changing your local currency to CAD and getting accommodation.
6. Follow local laws and customs.
7. Keep a folder with essential documents like your passport, travel insurance, hotel reservations, and emergency contacts.
8. Stay Informed.

 

FAQs

 

Can I Travel to Canada with an Expired Passport?

No, you cannot travel to Canada with an expired passport. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.

 

What Documents do I Need to Re-Enter Canada?

The documents you will need to re-enter Canada depend on your citizenship status and the purpose of your visit.

 

What Documents do I Need on Arrival to Canada?

On arrival in Canada, you typically need a passport, visa/eTA, and any relevant health documentation.

 

What is a Certificate of Identity in Canada?

A certificate of identity in Canada is a travel document for individuals who can't get a national passport.