Canadian visa rules for flight connections

I know that in the US foreigners must have a US visa if they have a connection in the US, even if they fly from a different country to a different country. That is because in the US you have to go through passport control regardless of your final destination.

What is the situation in Canada? Does a person who would need a visa to enter Canada need a visa to connect through Canada without exiting the airport?

Best Answer

I believe this depends on the airport where you have your connection. Toronto has a mechanism for those with connections that doesn't involve clearing through customs into Canada. It depends on where you are going from and to though, so check with the airport to be sure.

For example at Toronto Pearson it says "Some International to U.S. connecting flights at Terminal 1 do not require passengers to clear Canada Border Services Agency before clearing U.S. Customs and Border Protection inspection."

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Quick Answer about "Canadian visa rules for flight connections"

your international flight stops at a Canadian airport on its way to another country.
you'll be connecting between 2 international flights at a Canadian airport.
you'll transit through Canada in 48 hours or less, and.
you don't have a valid visitor visa.

Do I need a Canadian visa for connecting flights?

You need a transit visa if you're from a visa-required country and: your international flight stops at a Canadian airport on its way to another country. you'll be connecting between 2 international flights at a Canadian airport. you'll transit through Canada in 48 hours or less.

Can I take a connecting flight to Canada?

If you're a foreign national allowed entry into Canada without qualifying as fully vaccinated, you may take a connecting flight that is scheduled to depart within 24 hours of the departure time for your flight to Canada.

Do I need a visa for connection flights?

Re: Do I Need A Visa For A Connecting Flight Through The US? Yes. There is no transit at US airports and you will need to clear both Immigration and Customs at your first point of entry into the US regardless.

Can I enter Canada with a one way ticket?

Can I travel to Canada with a one-way ticket? We strongly recommend that travellers who enter as tourists present a return ticket upon entry into Canada, but this is not a legal requirement.

Air Canada International Connections

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