When are visas, entry and exit permits, and health certificates required?

Every country has the right to set entry requirements, limit the duration of visits and deny entry to foreigners. You may require visas, entry and exit permits, and health certificates when entering a country. You must plan ahead since these documents may be difficult or even impossible to obtain at your point of entry. To avoid possible delays or even detention, consult a travel agent or the diplomatic or consular mission of the countries concerned prior to departure. Allow enough time for processing of visas and other documents.

You should also ask your air carrier which travel documents you should have before check-in to avoid confusion at that time. Some countries may require that you show the return portion of your air ticket and other documentation upon your arrival. For further information about travel documents, contact Foreign Affairs Canada which publishes travel reports about various countries on its Web site under its Consular Affairs section. Canada has embassies and consular missions in many countries to provide assistance. Many foreign countries also have embassies or consular missions in Canada.

Permanent residents returning to Canada now require a valid Permanent Resident Card before boarding their airplane. For more information, consult Citizenship and Immigration Canada.