Travel Restrictions to Canada: What You Need to Know in 2026

No Vaccine Mandate for Entry as of May 2026

Canada dropped the COVID-19 vaccine requirement for foreign travelers in October 2022, and no mandate has been reinstated as of May 2026. Travelers are no longer required to upload proof of vaccination to the ArriveCAN app, which was retired in 2022. However, individual provinces may still require vaccination for certain indoor settings, but these do not affect border entry.

Canada's federal government has not reinstated any vaccine mandate for entry, making it one of the most accessible major destinations for unvaccinated travelers since the pandemic.

The removal of the vaccine mandate reflects Canada's broader shift toward managing COVID-19 as an endemic illness. While the border remains open without vaccination checks, travelers should still carry proof of vaccination for provincial requirements, especially in Quebec and British Columbia where vaccine passports are still active for some indoor events. Key points to remember:

• No federal vaccination requirement for entry by air, land, or sea.
• ArriveCAN app discontinued; no need to submit health information before travel.
• Provincial vaccine rules may apply to indoor dining, gyms, and entertainment venues.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) Now Required for All Visa-Exempt Visitors

As of January 2023, the eTA became mandatory for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to or transiting through Canadian airports, including U.S. green card holders. The eTA costs CAD $7 and is valid for up to five years or until passport expiry. Travelers from visa-required countries still need a visitor visa; the eTA does not apply to them.

This change closed a loophole that previously allowed some visa-exempt travelers to enter without pre-authorization. The eTA application is online and typically approved within minutes, but travelers are advised to apply at least 72 hours before departure. The eTA is now a prerequisite for boarding any flight to Canada. Below are the essential details:

1. Cost: CAD $7 (non-refundable).
2. Validity: Up to 5 years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first.
3. Exemptions: U.S. citizens and travelers with a valid Canadian visa do not need an eTA.
4. Transit: Even if you are only connecting through a Canadian airport, an eTA is required for visa-exempt foreign nationals.

New Biometric Screening at Major Airports Expanded in 2025

Canada expanded biometric collection (fingerprints and photo) to all visa-exempt travelers entering at major international airports starting in early 2025. This program, already in place for visa applicants, now applies to visitors from visa-exempt countries such as the U.K., Australia, and South Korea. The biometrics are collected at primary inspection kiosks upon arrival.

The expansion affects over 50 countries and is expected to streamline border processing while enhancing security — biometric data is stored securely and used only for identity verification.

Travelers should be aware that biometric collection adds a few extra minutes to the entry process but reduces the need for secondary interviews. The data is retained for up to 15 years. Privacy advocates have raised concerns, but Canada's privacy commissioner has approved the measures under strict safeguards. For those worried about data security, consider reviewing data masking practices to understand how personal information can be protected. Additionally, reliable 5G connectivity at Canadian airports ensures that travelers can access digital resources for updates and guidance upon arrival.

• Applies to all visa-exempt travelers arriving at Toronto Pearson, Vancouver, Montreal-Trudeau, and Calgary International airports.
• Biometrics include ten fingerprints and a digital photograph.
• Exemptions: Children under 14, seniors over 80, and diplomats.