Canada - Immigration
All nationalities need a valid passport, including US citizens.
Most nationals do not require a visa, but for an updated list of those countries whose citizens do require one, see the Government Website.
Most visitors can stay for up to 6 months in Canada, decided by the immigration officer at the port of entry.
Private Canadian and American citizens can apply to be included under the NEXUS program. This scheme is a joint US/Canadian Customs and Immigration program for frequent travelers between the two countries. It is designed to simplify procedures for pre-approved, low-risk boaters who regularly cross the border. Members can call the NEXUS marine reporting number up to four hours in advance of their arrival in Canada for more convenient processing. They also have access to expedited security screening at major airports in Canada and the United States. Members benefit from expedited border clearance at land, air, and marine ports of entry. All persons on board must be NEXUS members in order to take advantage of NEXUS reporting procedures. The program is available by application only and the fee is $50 (US) non-refundable for five years. Children under 18 are free.
See the Nexus Program site for details.
Incoming Crew and Guests:
Marine travelers are strongly encouraged to use ArriveCAN if flying into a participating international airport. See Biosecurity for further details.
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement prior to arrival for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. It is valid for up to five years and costs $7 CAD. Apply online.
Last updated: March 2024
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Note – CANADA has some very specific and different VHF channels and you will need to be sure your VHF radio can access them.
Example: Channel 21B, and 83B provide Continuous Marine Broadcast (CMB) service (in English)
Most VHFs can switch between USA/International and Canada (check your manual). For more specific details check out this helpful site: https://www.boat-ed.com/canada/studyGuide/VHF-Marine-Radio-Channels/101199_116029/
Link to Waterways guide / Lakes loop is not working
This should do it.. https://www.waterwayguide.com/knowledge-center/news-post/3895/Choosing-your-Great-Loop-route-Atlantic-to-Great-Lakes,
As of early June, Canada Border Services has placed a temporary hold on Shelburne, Nova Scotia as a port of entry
The latest information we have (as of 9 June, 2020) is that Newfoundland has closed its borders indefinitely including for citizens of Canada. See https://www.noonsite.com/place/canada/formalities#biosecurity-section for updates.
Quebec City marina
The best advice is to contact the Canadian Reporting station and ensure that your passports are properly stamped on departure and to have all your official boat papers (including insurance) in order. The USA Customs & Border Protection (CBP) service does not normally issue a zarpe for boats leaving their shores and, conversely, does not appear to expect one on those arriving either.
I have a British-flagged vessel and will be leaving Canada for the US in May. I can find no reference anywhere on Transport Canada, or elsewhere, of ‘outbound clearance’ requirements. I am familiar with the entry requirements for the US… Is there a zarpe or equivalent, in order to leave Canada?
Regarding pepper spray: bear spray is fine. There is a size limitation and it to be designed for use with bears (it’s all in the labelling).