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Major Airports & Tips

Key international airports include Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), Montreal (YUL), Calgary (YYC), and Ottawa (YOW). Terminals are modern with clear signage and plenty of amenities. Expect longer lines during peak hours; patience and organized documents help.

Immigration Process

Join the “International Arrivals” queue. Have passport open to the bio page and printed ETA/visa approval ready. Officers may ask about purpose of visit, duration, and first-night accommodation. Follow instructions and remain polite. Biometric scans may be collected depending on airport and nationality.

Pro Tips

• Remove hats, earbuds, and sunglasses during checks
• Ensure travel names match exactly
• Carry old passports if renewal occurred after visa

Baggage & Customs

Follow “Baggage Claim” signs. If luggage is missing, contact airline desk immediately and file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Choose “Nothing to Declare” for personal items or “Goods to Declare” for dutiable items. Keep electronics and receipts accessible.

Money, SIM Cards & Getting to City

ATMs and currency exchange are available immediately in arrivals. Exchange small amounts first. Credit/debit cards widely accepted, but keep cash for small expenses. Airport kiosks provide prepaid SIMs; activation usually instant.

Transport Options

• Rideshare: Use official pickup zones
• Prepaid taxis: Pay at official counters
• Shuttle trains: e.g., UP Express in Toronto
• Hotel transfers: Convenient for first-night arrivals

Domestic Flight or Train Connections

Allow adequate time when connecting to domestic travel. Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver have multiple terminals; check shuttle requirements. Arrive at least 90–120 minutes for domestic flights.

Suggested Buffers

Assistance & Special Situations

Wheelchairs, nursing rooms, and priority lanes are available. Prescription medications should be in original packaging with doctor notes. Airport information desks are helpful for first-time travelers.

Your First Night

Share your location with someone trustworthy. Keep passports in hotel safe. Ask staff for trusted cab numbers, nearby ATMs, and late-night food options.

• Use hotel safes for valuables
• Scan or photograph your entry stamp
• Download city maps offline

Quick Arrival Checklist

• Passport, ETA, insurance, and hotel details ready
• Join correct immigration line
• Collect bags, file PIR if needed
• Exchange small cash, activate SIM
• Use official transport only
• Inform someone about arrival and travel plan

Useful Sources

• Travel Advisories

Emergency Contacts in Canada

• Police, Fire, Ambulance: 911
• Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA): +1 204-983-3500
• Tourist Assistance & Info: 1-800-622-6232
• Poison Control: 1-800-268-9017
• Medical Emergencies (non-urgent info): Local hospitals & Health Canada website

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Carry a printed copy of your hotel reservation and travel itinerary.
• Dress in layers; Canadian weather can change quickly.
• Check public transport routes in advance and consider using contactless payment cards.
• Use official taxi or rideshare apps; avoid unmarked vehicles.
• Always keep your passport and travel documents in a secure place.
• Download offline maps and translation apps for areas with limited connectivity.

Nearby Attractions

Depending on your arrival city, here are some must-visit spots near the airport for short layovers or your first day:

Quick Tips Summary

• Arrive early for immigration and baggage claim.
• Keep small amounts of Canadian cash for first-day expenses.
• Activate your SIM card immediately at the airport.
• Use official transport services; avoid unverified offers.
• Keep emergency contacts handy at all times.
• Plan your first day with realistic travel and rest time.

Weather & Clothing Tips

Canada's climate varies widely depending on the region. Pack accordingly and layer clothing to adapt to changing temperatures, especially during travel from airport to hotel.

• Toronto & Montreal: Check for sudden rain or snow.
• Vancouver: Mild, but often rainy in fall/winter.
• Calgary & Edmonton: Cold, windy, and sometimes snowy year-round.

Language & Communication

Canada is officially bilingual. English is dominant in most provinces, French in Quebec.

• Signage may be bilingual—pay attention to “Arrivals / Arrivées” and customs instructions.
• Download translation apps if traveling to French-speaking regions.
• Politeness is appreciated; simple greetings go a long way.

Mobile & Internet Connectivity

Access to Wi-Fi and mobile networks is essential during your first day.

• Airport Wi-Fi is often free but may require registration.
• Consider prepaid SIM cards with data for navigation apps.
• Download offline maps in Google Maps or Maps.me before arrival.

Healthcare & Emergency Services

Canada has reliable healthcare, but international visitors must have travel insurance.

• Locate nearest hospital from airport and hotel.
• Keep insurance numbers and local doctor contacts handy.
• Pharmacies are widely available for basic medication.

Cultural Etiquette for First-Time Visitors

• Always say “please” and “thank you.”
• Queue patiently; cutting lines is frowned upon.
• Tipping: 15–20% in restaurants is standard.
• Personal space is respected; avoid loud phone conversations in public areas.

Airport Amenities & Lounges

Make your wait comfortable if you have long layovers.

• Priority Pass lounges are available in major airports.
• Charging stations for phones and laptops are located near gates.
• Family-friendly rooms, baby-changing facilities, and quiet zones available.

Transportation Apps & Cards

Most cities have cashless options and apps for smoother navigation.

• Toronto: PRESTO card for subway, bus, and train.
• Vancouver: Compass Card and TransLink app.
• Rideshare apps: Uber, Lyft; verify official pickup points.

Local Food for First Meals

• Try quick local options: poutine in Quebec, bagels in Montreal, Tim Hortons coffee nationwide.
• Many airports have food courts for varying budgets.
• Check opening hours if arriving late at night.

Public Transport Safety

• Keep valuables secure in crowded buses or trains.
• Purchase tickets or tap cards before boarding.
• Follow official signage and announcements at stations.

Canada Arrival – FAQs