Entering Canada: Tips for Travelers

All visitors must have valid travel documents and identification to enter Canada, such as a passport or visa.

Find current information on entry requirements on the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) website. 

Requirements may vary depending on the country you’re travelling from — or transiting through.

Visa-exempt foreign nationals (excluding U.S. citizens) must apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), ideally prior to booking their flight to Canada.

Visa-required foreign nationals must submit fingerprints and a photo (biometrics) to acquire their visa for travel to Canada.  

Visa Information

Information Letter for International Attendees:

This letter contains important information related to the visa and electronic travel authorization (eTA) application process and the biometric requirement for international delegates seeking to enter Canada to attend the CTBUH 2025 International Conference. Please read this letter carefully. Should you have any questions, please email [email protected].

Letter of Invitation and Special Event Code

Events registered with IRCC are issued with a unique Special Event Code to help track and coordinate visa processing. Applicants must tag their applications with the event’s Special Event Code, which can be found in the letter of invitation provided by the event organizer.

Please find the Letter of Invitation and Special Event Code linked above for international individuals registered to attend the CTBUH 2025 International Conference. Please note that if you need a visa, a letter of invitation does not guarantee that a visa will be issued. Visa officers assess applicants to find out if they are eligible to visit Canada. Some visa offices may need these letters to be notarized. Delegates should contact the Canadian visa office of their country to find out if this is required.

Helpful Links

• Find out if you need a visa to travel to Canada: Determine which travel document is needed to enter Canada.
• Visa-required countries: Individuals who require a visa.
• Visitor visa: Facts about the visitor visa process.
• Visitor visa documents: Documents that are required and recommended when submitting a business visitor visa.
• Visa-exempt (eTA eligible) travelers: Individuals who require an electronic travel authorization (eTA).
• Electronic travel authorization (eTA): Facts about the electronic travel authorization (eTA) process.
• Facts about biometrics: Who needs to give fingerprints and a photograph (biometrics).
• Biometric collection sites: Where to give your fingerprints and photograph (biometrics).
• IRCC processing times: How long it took the IRCC to process most applications in the past for each application type. 
• IRCC web form: Submit an inquiry to the processing office.
• IRCC Help Centre: Frequently asked immigration-related questions.

Do You Need an eTA?

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is now a mandatory requirement for all visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air, with the exception of U.S. citizens or travelers with a valid Canadian visa.

Available Airports

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ): This is Toronto’s primary international airport, located about 27 kilometers (17 miles) from downtown Toronto.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ): A smaller airport located on Toronto Islands, only 3 kilometers (2 miles) from downtown. It’s a great option for travelers flying in from U.S. destinations and regional flights.

Getting to the Westin Harbour Castle from the Airports

1. From Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

• UP Express (Union Pearson Express)
  • A fast, convenient train that connects Toronto Pearson Airport to downtown Toronto. Travel Time: 25 minutes | Cost: $12.35 CAD one-way.
  • Departure Location: The UP Express station is located on the ground floor of Terminal 1.
  • Arrival Location: Union Station (10-minute walk to the Westin Harbour Castle).
  • Tip: The UP Express is the fastest and most efficient way to reach downtown Toronto, and trains depart every 15 minutes.
• Taxis and Ride-Sharing (Uber, Lyft)
  • Taxis: You can find the taxi stand at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3
  • Uber & Lyft: These ride-sharing services are available at both terminals

2. From Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)

• Ferry to the Mainland & Walking
  • What it is: Billy Bishop Airport is located on Toronto Islands, and to reach the mainland, you will take a free ferry. The ferry operates 24/7 and is a quick 1-2 minute ride.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 5 minutes total to reach downtown.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Arrival Location: The Billy Bishop Airport ferry terminal is just steps away from the mainland, and you will be in downtown Toronto immediately upon arrival.
• Taxis & Ride-Sharing (Uber, Lyft) available from the mainland (10-minute drive or 25-minute train ride to the Westin Harbour Castle hotel).

Transportation

• Public Transit (TTC)
  • The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) offers convenient bus, streetcar, and subway services around the city.  TTC subway: If you are looking for an economical way to get around, consider taking the subway, which can take you across the city efficiently.
• Taxis
  • Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked via phone or app.
• Uber & Lyft
  • Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Toronto and can be an easy, comfortable way to get around. Simply use their apps to book a ride.

Helpful Tips for Travelers

Currency: The local currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Most major credit cards are accepted throughout the city, and ATMs are widely available.

Weather: Toronto weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast and dress accordingly. Temperatures can be cool in Toronto in October, but not unpleasant. Rarely does it snow in October.

Language: English is the official language in Toronto, but the city is diverse, with many different languages spoken.

Time Zone: Toronto operates in the Eastern Time Zone (ET).

Electrical Current: The electrical current in Canada runs on 120-volt with a frequency of 60Hz.