Transit for US citizens travelling to Canada
U.S. citizens transiting Canada by air should carry a valid U.S. passport per IRCC entry requirements.
For a US citizen passport. Lawful permanent residents and other statuses can follow different rules.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Passengers transiting Canadian airports by air. · IRCC: entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| Maximum stay | Limited to connection time as a visitor transit. · IRCC: entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| Cost | No Canadian visa or eTA fee for U.S. citizens. · IRCC: entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| Processing time | No advance application for U.S. citizens. · IRCC: entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
| How to apply | Present your U.S. passport when you board and on arrival. · IRCC: entry requirements (opens in a new tab) |
Each fact above is linked to the authority that sets the rule. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications.
Apply only on the government website linked above. This site does not issue visas or travel authorisations and does not take applications. Other websites charge their own service fee on top of any government charge.
How to apply
- Confirm your connection airport in Canada.
- Carry a valid U.S. passport.
- Follow airline and CBSA instructions.
FAQ
Is an eTA required for a Toronto connection?
IRCC entry requirements for U.S. citizens focus on a valid U.S. passport rather than an eTA—see entry requirements (opens in a new tab).
What about cruise connections?
Entry rules depend on how you enter Canada—confirm on IRCC before you travel.
Sources
Independent guide, not legal advice. Entry Visa Guide is an independent information site. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or run by any government or public authority. Always check official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Report an error.