Quebec City Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Quebec City, located in the province of Quebec, Canada, welcomes international visitors through Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) and other points of entry. As part of Canada, Quebec City follows federal Canadian immigration and customs regulations. All international travelers must meet Canada's entry requirements, which vary based on nationality and purpose of visit. The entry process for Quebec City involves passing through Canadian immigration and customs controls. Most visitors arrive for tourism purposes and can stay for up to six months, though the actual duration is determined by the border services officer at the time of entry. It's essential to have all required documentation ready, including a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, return tickets, and any required travel authorizations or visas. While Quebec is a predominantly French-speaking province, immigration officers at major entry points typically speak both English and French. Travelers should be prepared to answer questions about their visit, demonstrate ties to their home country, and show they have adequate resources for their stay. Understanding Canada's entry requirements before traveling will help ensure a smooth arrival in Quebec City.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Canada's visa requirements apply to all visitors to Quebec City. Depending on your nationality, you may enter visa-free, require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), or need to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).

Visa-Free Entry (eTA Required for Air Travel)

Up to 6 months (determined by border officer)

Citizens of visa-exempt countries can enter Canada without a visa but require an eTA when arriving by air

Includes

U.S. citizens and Canadian permanent residents do NOT need an eTA. Visa-exempt travelers entering by land or sea do not need an eTA but should carry proper identification.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Valid for 5 years or until passport expires

Required for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to or transiting through Canada

Includes

All visa-exempt countries when arriving by air (see list above)

How to Apply: Apply online at canada.ca/eTA. Most applications are approved within minutes, but some may take several days. Apply before booking flights.
Cost: CAD $7

eTA is electronically linked to your passport. You must travel with the passport used in your eTA application. One eTA allows multiple entries during its validity period.

Visa Required (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)

Usually up to 6 months per entry; single or multiple entry visas available

Citizens of countries not on the visa-exempt list must apply for a visitor visa before traveling

How to Apply: Apply online or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country. Processing times vary by country (typically 2-4 weeks but can be longer). May require biometrics collection.

Countries requiring a TRV include China, India, Russia, Brazil, Mexico, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and many others. Check the official Government of Canada website for the complete list and application procedures. Visa fees vary by type (typically CAD $100 for visitor visa).

Arrival Process

Upon arrival in Quebec City (typically at Jean Lesage International Airport), all international travelers must clear Canadian immigration and customs. The process is straightforward if you have all required documents prepared.

Complete Declaration Card/Use ArriveCAN (if required)

Depending on current requirements, you may need to complete a customs declaration form or use the ArriveCAN app before arrival. Check current requirements before your trip.

Primary Inspection - Immigration

Present your passport and any required documents (eTA confirmation, visa, etc.) to a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer. Answer questions about your visit truthfully and concisely.

Secondary Inspection (if required)

Some travelers may be referred to secondary inspection for additional questions or document verification. This is routine and not necessarily a cause for concern.

Baggage Claim

Collect your checked luggage from the carousel corresponding to your flight.

Customs Declaration

Proceed to customs where you'll declare any goods, currency over CAD $10,000, or items that may be restricted. CBSA officers may inspect your luggage.

Exit to Arrivals

Once cleared, you'll exit to the public arrivals area where you can arrange ground transportation to your destination in Quebec City.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada. Some countries have agreements allowing entry with passports valid for less than 6 months, but it's recommended to have at least 6 months validity.

eTA or Visa Confirmation

Printed or electronic confirmation of your eTA (for visa-exempt travelers arriving by air) or your visa (if required). Airlines will verify this before allowing you to board.

Proof of Onward/Return Travel

Ticket or itinerary showing you will leave Canada, demonstrating you don't intend to overstay.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to show you can support yourself during your stay (typically CAD $1,000+ per month recommended).

Accommodation Details

Hotel reservations, address of where you're staying, or invitation letter if staying with friends/family.

Travel Insurance (recommended)

While not mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel insurance including medical coverage is strongly recommended as healthcare in Canada can be expensive for visitors.

Additional Documents (if applicable)

Letter of invitation, proof of business meetings, student acceptance letter, work permit, etc., depending on purpose of visit.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Arrive with all documents organized and easily accessible. Keep digital and physical copies of important documents.

Answer questions honestly and concisely. Don't volunteer unnecessary information, but don't be evasive.

Dress appropriately and be polite. First impressions matter, and respectful behavior helps the process go smoothly.

Have addresses and contact information readily available, including your accommodation in Quebec City.

If you don't speak English or French well, you can request an interpreter at the border.

Don't carry prohibited items. When in doubt, declare it. Failing to declare items can result in fines or entry denial.

Keep receipts for expensive items you're bringing into Canada to prove you're not importing them for sale.

Allow extra time for the immigration and customs process, especially during peak travel seasons.

Customs & Duty-Free

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) regulates what goods can be brought into Canada. All travelers must declare items on their customs declaration form, and duty-free allowances apply based on how long you've been outside Canada (for returning residents) or your visitor status.

Alcohol

1.5 liters of wine OR 1.14 liters of spirits OR 8.5 liters of beer (or a combination not exceeding these limits)

Must be 19 years of age or older (legal drinking age in Quebec). Amounts exceeding allowances are subject to duty and taxes.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 200 grams of manufactured tobacco, AND 200 tobacco sticks

Must be 18 years of age or older. Provincial regulations may impose additional restrictions. Amounts exceeding allowances are subject to duty and taxes.

Currency

No limit on amount, but must declare CAD $10,000 or more (or foreign equivalent)

Declaration applies to cash, securities, bank drafts, cheques, and traveler's cheques. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties.

Gifts/Goods

Visitors may bring gifts valued at CAD $60 or less each, duty-free (alcohol and tobacco excluded from gift exemption)

Personal effects and goods for personal use during your stay are generally allowed. Commercial goods or large quantities may be questioned.

Prohibited Items

Firearms and weapons (without proper permits and declaration) - strict regulations apply
Illegal drugs and narcotics - including cannabis (even if legal in your home country)
Certain food products - fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products from most countries
Endangered species products - items made from protected animals or plants
Hate propaganda and obscene materials
Counterfeit goods - fake designer items, pirated media
Used or second-hand mattresses
Fireworks and explosives (without proper authorization)

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - bring in original containers with labels, carry prescriptions, limit to 90-day supply
Firearms - require proper permits, advance declaration, and must be declared at border; handguns are highly restricted
Plants and plant products - may require inspection and permits from Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Pets and animals - require health certificates and proof of vaccinations (see special situations)
Large amounts of currency - must declare CAD $10,000 or more
Business goods and commercial samples - may require documentation and be subject to duties
Certain food products - some commercially packaged foods allowed but must be declared

Health Requirements

Canada generally does not require specific vaccinations for entry, but health requirements can change based on global health situations. Travelers should verify current requirements before departure.

Required Vaccinations

No routine vaccinations are required for entry to Canada for most travelers
Yellow fever vaccination certificate required if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, etc.) should be up to date
Influenza vaccine (seasonal)
COVID-19 vaccination (check current requirements as policies have evolved)
Hepatitis A and B for longer stays
Rabies for those planning outdoor activities in remote areas

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is strongly recommended and may be required for some visa types. Canada's healthcare system does not cover visitors, and medical costs can be very high. Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Some provinces may require proof of insurance for certain visa applications.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 and other health requirements may change. Check the Government of Canada's travel health notices (travel.gc.ca) and the Public Health Agency of Canada website before traveling. Requirements may include vaccination proof, testing, quarantine, or health declarations. Download the ArriveCAN app if currently required for health screening.

Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

Official government website for visa applications, eTA, and immigration information

Website: canada.ca/immigration | Call Centre: 1-888-242-2100 (within Canada)

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)

Information on customs, border requirements, and what you can bring to Canada

Website: cbsa-asfc.gc.ca | Border Information Service: 1-800-461-9999 (within Canada) or 204-983-3500 (outside Canada)

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Canada

For assistance with lost passports, emergencies, or consular services. Check your government's website for Canadian embassy contact information before traveling.

Emergency Services - Quebec City

Police, Fire, Ambulance

Dial 911 for all emergencies

Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB)

Quebec City's main airport

Phone: +1 418-640-3300 | Website: aeroportdequebec.com

Tourism Quebec

Official tourism information for Quebec

Phone: 1-877-266-5687 | Website: quebec-cite.com

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (cannot be included on parent's passport). Minors (under 18) traveling alone or with only one parent should carry a consent letter from the non-accompanying parent(s) or legal guardian, including contact information and notarized if possible. Carry birth certificates or custody documents if applicable. Border officers may ask questions to prevent child abduction.

Traveling with Pets

Dogs and cats must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate (not required for puppies/kittens under 3 months from rabies-free countries). Certificate must identify the animal, show vaccination date and expiry, and be signed by a licensed veterinarian. Dogs may be inspected for evidence of disease. Birds require import permits and health certificates. Other animals have specific requirements - check CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) website before traveling.

Extended Stays (Beyond Tourist Visa)

Tourist visitors typically receive a 6-month stay. To extend, apply online to IRCC at least 30 days before your status expires (fee: CAD $100). For longer stays, consider study permits (for students), work permits (for employment), or temporary resident permits. Working on a tourist visa is illegal. Overstaying can result in removal and future entry bans.

Business Visitors

Business visitors conducting international business activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations) without entering the Canadian labor market can usually enter on a visitor status. Carry invitation letters, proof of business relationship, and evidence you'll return home. Some business activities may require a work permit - check IRCC guidelines.

Students

Study programs longer than 6 months require a study permit. Apply before arriving in Canada. You'll need a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI), proof of funds, and may need a medical exam and police certificate. Study permits allow some part-time work opportunities.

Dual Citizens

Canadian dual citizens must enter Canada with a valid Canadian passport. You cannot enter as a visitor using your other country's passport. If your Canadian passport has expired, apply for renewal before traveling or visit a Canadian embassy/consulate.

Criminal Record

Criminal convictions, including DUI/DWI, can make you inadmissible to Canada. You may need to apply for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) or Criminal Rehabilitation before traveling. Declare any criminal history honestly - CBSA has access to international databases. Misrepresentation can result in permanent entry bans.

Transit Through Canada

If transiting through a Canadian airport to another country, you may still need an eTA or transit visa depending on your nationality. Some travelers may be eligible for the Transit Without Visa (TWOV) program or China Transit Program. Check IRCC website for specific requirements based on your citizenship.