Passports and Visas
Don’t forget that you will have to have a passport to enter Canada from the United States. Although there was a time when that was not the case, unfortunately other forms of identification will not suffice to cross the border. Getting a passport takes at least a few weeks depending on where you live, so don’t delay if you don’t yet have a valid passport.
Americans do not need a visa, only a passport, to enter Canada. Residents of other countries who want to participate in the Binational Convention will possibly need a visa depending on where they live. The Canadian government’s website lists the requirements to enter Canada from other countries.
The government of Canada also has a list of reminders for those who plan to enter the country..
Flying to Toronto
Toronto is served by two airports: Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ). Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) is another popular choice for Torontonians who fly to and from the United States.
Toronto Pearson
Toronto Pears is the biggest and busiest airport in the country and offers the most choices of flights from cities around the world.
“Toronto” Pearson is in fact located outside of the city of Toronto, although you can easily reach the city centre by the Union Pearson Express train. The TTC (public transportation) also offers buses that transport travellers into the city.
Billy Bishop
Billy Bishop is a smaller airport which is located on Toronto Island next to downtown Toronto. It primarily serves cities on the east coast of Canada and the US.
For those who can fly there, it is a convenient choice because you will fly directly into downtown. The airport is connected to Toronto by a free ferry, but also a walking path. The ferry trip between the airport and the city lasts only 90 seconds (the trip is only 121 metres long) and offers a beautiful view of the city. It is also worth noting that the ferry only uses electric energy!
Buffalo
Flying to Buffalo then driving to Toronto is probably the least convenient option, but it can sometimes be the cheapest as you are not paying for an international flight. The trip by car between Buffalo and Toronto can last approximately 2-3 hours depending on the traffic.
There are also two low-cost buses, Flixbus and Megabus, which run between the Buffalo airport and Toronto.
Driving to Toronto
From the US
There are several border crossing you can enter Canada from by car. From New York State, you will probably cross the border at either Fort Erie, Niagara Falls, or Lewiston. From Michigan you will likely cross at either Detroit or Port Huron.
The government of Canada sends notifications about delays at all the land border crossings, although most smartphone map apps will already direct users to the fastest border crossing depending on traffic, delays, accidents, etc.
Taking the train to Toronto
From the US
The “Maple Leaf Train” is an Amtrak train which runs everyday between New York City and Toronto with stops in Albany, Syracuse, Niagara Falls, and several other smaller cities. The full trip lasts approximately 12 and a half hours.
Within Canada
There are a few VIA Rail trains which go to Toronto from a few other major cities in Ontario and Québec. It is possible to take a train from Ottawa, London, and Montreal al Toronto.
Canuck laws & culture
Although Canada is very similar to the US, it is a different country with its own laws & customs. Some things which often trip up Americans visiting our friendly neighbor to the North:
– You may be denied entry at the border if you have a criminal conviction (US authorities share information with the Canadian Border Agency), including for some things which are not considered serious crimes in the USA, notably DUI convictions.
– Don’t joke about Canada becoming the “51st Sate” or annexation of the country. This is wildly unpopular in Canada (as is the current US Presidency in general) and will go over like a lead balloon. Canadians fought more than one war in defence of their country vs. invading US armies, and The North remembers.
– The fundamental rights under the Canadian Constitution (Charter of Rights & Freedoms) extend to everyone in Canada, including foreigners, though there may be some restrictions on democratic rights (eg. voting) and immigration (eg. right to stay, work, study) for non-citizens.
– Though a good idea to do so, legally there is no requirement for you to carry ID with you in Canada, except for specific circumstances such as entering the country, driving, or purchasing alcohol.
– Your US drivers license is valid for driving in Canada for up to 90 days; you need to carry proof of auto insurance with you when driving. Your AAA membership works in Canada.
– You have rights when dealing with Canadian police, who are mostly professional and fair.
Crossing the border into Canada
Crossing into Canada goes smoothly for the vast majority of visitors, but there are some things to note:
– It is not illegal to bring large amounts of money into or out of the country, but you must declare more than CAD$10,000 (approx. USD$7,300) in cash & instruments (eg. travelers checks, bank drafts, etc), otherwise funds could be subject to seizure.
– If travelling with minor children (under 18) and both legal parents are not present, you bring the child’s birth certificate and passport as well as a signed and dated letter from the parents (or other parent, if only one parent is accompanying) authorizing international travel for the accompanying adult (legal name) with the child.
– If Canada Border Agents ask what the purpose of your visit it, you can simply say “visiting for tourism” or “attending a hobby conference” (not work related). It’s a good idea to have the name & address of your accommodations, in case they ask where you will be staying (many reserved at Toronto Metropolitan University’s ILC Residence, 240 Jarvis Street Toronto, Ontario, M5B 2L1 te. 1-416-979-5301).
– Guns: Canada generally has stricter gun laws than the USA. You can bring firearms into the country, though US conceal carry licenses will generally not be valid. Declare at the border and do your homework before arrival.
– Alcohol: In Ontario, the legal drinking age is 19. While some Canadian cities are experimenting with designated areas in parks for alcohol consumption, carrying open alcohol containers is generally prohibited – especially inside a vehicle while driving (for anyone, not just the driver), even if parked. Public intoxication is also illegal if you cause a disturbance.
– Marijuana: yes, it’s been legal in Canada for many years, but it is not recommended to cross the border with any cannabis. If you have any, it must be declared (and you might be denied entry); a permit is required for importation.
Travel health & insurance
Some U.S. health care policies (including Medicare) won’t cover you in Canada, and Canada’s public healthcare system is not available to visitors, so consider travel insurance. The cost is often minimal and can protect you in case of unforeseen accidents, medical emergencies, illness, lost baggage or even trip cancellations.
– In case of accident, you will simply be assumed to have insurance (since all Canadians do) and they will just start treating you, which could rack up quote a large bill in a hurry.
– One travel health insurance option is Allianz Travel at a cost of $138 for a year.
– If you plan to drive in Canada, check to ensure your auto insurance covers driving in Canada. Traffic laws & regulations are similar to the USA.
Roaming & mobile cell phone options
Mobile phone plans in Canada are amongst the most expensive in the world, so it is usually not with it to buy a Canadian physical SIM card for your phone in Canada.
– Most US mobile phone plans today include Canadian service… but it could be expensive. Check your plan before you go.
– If your mobile service plan does not include service in Canada (or it is expensive “roaming” service), you can get one of many eSIM card options, such as Airalo for $11 for 15 days in Canada (includes 2GB data).
– Wifi will be available in the kongresejo and residence.
Money & Paying for stuff
Your US credit and debit cards should work in Canada at virtually all stores, hotels and restaurants. However, few accept American Express.
– Merchants in Canada generally use the Chip & PIN verification system for debit and credit card transactions, so you’ll need to know your 4-digit personal identification number (PIN) before making any purchases. While most travelers know their debit card PIN, some are caught unaware when a PIN is required for credit card purchases.
– Contactless (tap) payments are generally available for small purchases (less than $200) anywhere credit cards are accepted.
– Cash: Skip money exchanges (especially at airports) as they charge high fees. If you want Canadian cash, it is usually cheapest to just take money out of your bank account via a bank machine physically attached to a bank. Likewise, exchanging US greenbacks for colorful Canuck dollars in any bank will most often get you the best exchange rate. Many merchants (especially at touristy locations) will accept US cash at the going rate, but provide change in Canadian dollars.
Given Tensions, Will Americans Really be Welcome?
There are millions of Americans in Canada, having a great time as you read this; there is no need to overthink current political tensions as you will be welcome. Canadians may dislike the current US political situation but they generally don’t blame ordinary Americans for it (unless you are loudly wearing MAGA gear or something); it would in fact be hard to find another country more welcoming and safe for Americans to visit right now. Remember, as an Esperantist you will also have a community of support in Canada. Sameideanoj will have your back!
Questions? Big problems at the Canadian border, or with other Canadian authorities? Call Andy Blair, RCIC (collect 24hrs): 902-717-2639 or ahblair@yahoo.com