Safety and security

Terrorism

Although the threat from terrorism in Canada is low, there is still a global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by tourists and expatriates.

Crime

Crime remains relatively low in Canada but you should take sensible precautions:

• Don’t carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place.
• Don’t carry your passport unless absolutely necessary and leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home.
• Avoid showing large sums of money in public and don’t use ATMs after dark, especially if you’re alone. Check no one has followed you after conducting your business.
• Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, and arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible.
• Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafés, train and bus stations.

Petty theft

As with any country, crimes such as mugging, bag-snatching and pickpocketing are not uncommon in Canadian cities and towns. However, most visits to Canada are trouble-free.

Reporting crime

If you are a victim of a crime while in Canada, report it to the local police immediately and get a police report. You will need this if you are applying for a replacement passport or making an insurance claim.  If you need help or consular assistance, you can contact us at the nearest Embassy or Consulate.

Driving

If you’re planning to drive in Canada, be aware that cars drive on the right side of the road but otherwise road safety conditions are fairly similar to Ireland.

If you want to drive:

• Bring your full Irish driving license and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is against the law and you risk being detained, fined or banned from driving if caught
• Keep your vehicle doors locked and your bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching if you’re stopped at traffic lights

Vehicle hire

If you’re hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If you’re allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Illegal drugs

Cannabis is legalised for personal use, however any attempts to traffic the drug outside of Canada bring with it the possibility of stiff penalties inclusive of fines and long prison terms. Remember taking drugs will reduce your ability to make considered decisions and may make you vulnerable to accidents and unintended consequences.

Fentanyl 

The Government of Canada warns that Fentanyl has been detected in the illegal drug supply in all Canadian jurisdictions and significantly increases the risk of drug related overdose.

Additional Information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

Please see ‘Overview’ tab for information on the eTA which is required to enter Canada.

Passports should be valid for the duration of your stay.

Health

Check with your doctor well in advance of travelling to see if you need any vaccinations for Canada.

Natural disasters and climate

Thunderstorms

Summer thunderstorms are fairly frequent in most parts of Canada, with some becoming severe and potentially life threatening.

Tornadoes

May to September are the prime tornado months with the peak season in June and early July. Listen to local weather bulletins and check the National Hurricane Centre, Environment Canada and The Weather Network websites. This is especially important if camping or travelling by recreational vehicle.

Forest fires

Forest fires can break out at any time, regardless of the season. Please heed local warnings and monitor news bulletins for latest details on local outbreaks. For more information visit the Environment Canada website.

Snow Storms

During the winter, highways can be closed because of snow storms and avalanches. Even when roads remain open, winter driving conditions may still be treacherous. Listen to local weather bulletins and check the Weather Network website. Always comply with avalanche advisories and don’t enter closed trails. For more information and avalanche bulletins check the Canadian Avalanche Foundation.

Earthquakes

Though rare, Canada can have earthquakes and tremors. The coast of British Columbia is the region most at risk from a major earthquake. Earthquake reports and general information is provided by Earthquakes Canada. For information on earthquake preparedness check out GetPrepared.ca