Quebec City Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Quebec City, as part of the Canadian province of Quebec, follows the entry requirements set by the federal government of Canada. All international travelers, regardless of nationality, must go through immigration and customs upon arrival. The primary point of entry for most international travelers will be the Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB), although some may arrive via land from the United States or other parts of Canada. The process is managed by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Before traveling, visitors must ensure they have the correct travel documents (passport, visa, or Electronic Travel Authorization) and meet all health and admissibility requirements. It's important to understand that entry is always at the discretion of the CBSA officer, who will verify the purpose of your visit, financial means, and intent to leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Canada's visa policy determines the requirements for entering Quebec City. Requirements depend on your country of citizenship, not your country of residence.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 6 months (determined by border officer at entry)

Citizens of these countries do not need a visa for short visits (tourism, business). They still require a valid passport and, in most cases, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).

Includes

United States (US passport holders) Canada (Canadian citizens)

US citizens require only a valid US passport. Canadian citizens require proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, citizenship certificate). Permanent Residents of Canada need a valid PR card or PR Travel Document.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA/eVisa)

Up to 6 months (or until passport expiry, whichever is sooner)

Visa-exempt foreign nationals (excluding US citizens) must obtain an ETA before flying to or transiting through Canada. It is electronically linked to your passport.

Includes

United Kingdom Australia France Germany Japan South Korea Italy Spain Netherlands

How to Apply: Apply online via the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Most applications are approved within minutes. Required information includes passport details, personal info, and a credit card for payment.
Cost: CAD $7

An ETA is valid for up to 5 years or until passport expiry. It is required for air travel only; not required for entry by land or sea. You must travel with the passport used to apply for the ETA.

Visa Required

Up to 6 months (as determined by visa and border officer)

Citizens of countries not listed as visa-exempt must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) before travel.

How to Apply: Apply at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or online through the IRCC website. The process involves submitting an application form, passport, photos, proof of funds, travel itinerary, and often a letter of invitation. Processing times vary by country.

A visa does not guarantee entry; the final decision is made by the CBSA officer at the port of entry. Some nationals may also require biometrics (fingerprints and photo).

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport or a land border crossing, you will proceed through primary inspection with a CBSA officer.

Primary Inspection

Present your passport and travel documents to the CBSA officer. They will scan your passport, ask questions about your visit, and verify your admissibility. For air travelers, this may be done at a Primary Inspection Kiosk where you answer questions and have your photo taken, before speaking to an officer.

Baggage Claim & Customs

After clearing primary inspection, collect your checked baggage and proceed to the customs hall. You may be asked to present your completed Canada Border Services Agency Declaration Card (often distributed on your flight or available at kiosks).

Secondary Inspection (if selected)

Some travelers may be referred for a more detailed interview or examination of baggage. This is a routine procedure to verify declarations, documents, or the purpose of the visit.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Required for all foreign nationals. Must be valid for the duration of your intended stay. Some officers may recommend it be valid beyond your stay.

Visa or ETA

Required based on your nationality (see Visa Requirements). Must be obtained before travel.

Proof of Purpose of Visit

Such as hotel reservations, tour itinerary, or letter of invitation from friends/family in Quebec.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Evidence you can support yourself during your stay (e.g., bank statements, credit cards).

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of your intention to leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Answer all questions from the CBSA officer honestly and concisely.

Have all your documents organized and easily accessible.

If you do not understand a question, politely ask for clarification.

Complete your customs declaration card accurately before approaching the officer.

Do not use your phone or take photos in the immigration and customs area.

Customs & Duty-Free

Canada has strict customs regulations. You must declare all goods you are bringing into the country, including purchases made abroad, gifts, and duty-free items.

Alcohol

1.5 litres of wine OR 1.14 litres (40 oz) of liquor OR 24 x 355 ml cans/bottles of beer/ale.

You must be of legal drinking age in the province of Quebec (18 years).

Tobacco

200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 200 grams of manufactured tobacco, and 200 tobacco sticks.

You must be of legal age in Quebec (18 years).

Currency

No limit on the amount of money you can bring in or take out.

You must report amounts of CAN $10,000 or more (or the equivalent in foreign currency) to the CBSA. This includes cash, cheques, money orders, traveler's cheques, and securities.

Gifts/Goods

CAN $800 per person (if absent for 48 hours or more). CAN $200 per person (if absent for 24 hours or more).

Goods must be for personal use. Alcohol and tobacco are part of this allowance and have their own limits (see above). Gifts must be declared at their fair market value.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - strictly prohibited
Offensive weapons (e.g., switchblades, pepper spray) - without permit
Child pornography - strictly prohibited
Food, plants, animals, or related products that could pose a risk to Canadian ecosystems - without permit/inspection
Counterfeit goods or copyrighted material infringements

Restricted Items

Firearms and weapons - require special permits and must be declared
Certain cultural property (antiques, artifacts) - may require export permits from country of origin
Medications - carry in original containers with prescription; some over-the-counter medications in other countries may be controlled in Canada
Endangered species and products derived from them (CITES) - require permits

Health Requirements

While there are few mandatory vaccinations for general travelers, it is essential to be aware of health recommendations and insurance needs.

Required Vaccinations

None for general tourist travel from most countries.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella, polio, influenza)
COVID-19 vaccination (as per latest guidance)
Hepatitis A & B

Health Insurance

Highly recommended. Canada's public healthcare system does not cover visitors. Medical costs for non-residents can be extremely high. Travel health insurance is strongly advised to cover hospitalization, medical evacuation, and other emergencies.

Current Health Requirements: As of October 2024, there are no COVID-19 vaccination, testing, or quarantine requirements for travelers to Canada. This is subject to change; always check the latest requirements on the Government of Canada travel website before departure.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Find your country's embassy or consulate in Canada (most are in Ottawa or Montreal).

Check your government's travel advisory website for the most accurate contact information and support.

Immigration Authority

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)

Official websites: canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship.html and cbsa-asfc.gc.ca

Emergency

Emergency services number

Dial 911 for Police, Ambulance, or Fire services.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Minors (under 18) should carry identification. If traveling alone, with only one parent/guardian, or with non-parents, it is strongly recommended to carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) authorizing the travel. This helps prevent issues related to child abduction. Divorce or custody documents may also be requested.

Traveling with Pets

Dogs and cats over 3 months old require a valid rabies vaccination certificate. Dogs imported from countries at high-risk for dog rabies are subject to additional requirements. Other pets (birds, rodents, reptiles) have specific regulations. Always check the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) website for the most current import rules.

Extended Stays

If you wish to stay longer than the period initially granted (usually up to 6 months), you must apply for an extension (visitor record) at least 30 days before your status expires. This is done online through IRCC. You cannot extend your stay from within Canada if your status has already expired.

Know what to pack

Climate-specific clothing, travel documents, electronics, and gear — with shopping links for every item.

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