Moncton Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Moncton is located in New Brunswick, Canada, and all travelers visiting the city must comply with Canadian federal immigration requirements. As Canada's entry point regulations apply uniformly across the country, visitors to Moncton will go through Canadian customs and immigration procedures at their first point of entry into Canada, whether arriving at Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport or crossing a land border from the United States. Canada maintains a relatively welcoming immigration policy for tourists, with visa-free access for many nationalities and an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system for visa-exempt travelers arriving by air. The entry process is generally straightforward for leisure travelers who have proper documentation, sufficient funds, and a clear purpose for their visit. Most visitors are granted stays of up to six months, though the final decision rests with the border services officer. Before traveling to Moncton, ensure you have the appropriate travel authorization for your nationality, valid travel documents, and can demonstrate the purpose and means of your visit. Processing times and requirements can vary, so it's recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates and stay informed about any temporary measures or policy changes that may affect your entry.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Canada's visa requirements depend on your nationality and how you're entering the country. Visitors to Moncton must obtain the appropriate authorization before arrival.

Visa-Free Entry (with eTA for air travel)

Up to 6 months (determined by border officer)

Citizens of visa-exempt countries can visit Canada without a visa but require an eTA if arriving by air. Land and sea entries do not require eTA.

Includes

U.S. citizens do not need an eTA or visitor visa. U.S. green card holders need an eTA. British Overseas Citizens and British Subjects require a visa.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Valid for 5 years or until passport expires

Visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to or transiting through Canada need an eTA linked to their passport

Includes

All visa-exempt countries when arriving by air Includes UK, EU countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and others

How to Apply: Apply online through the official Government of Canada website. Most applications are approved within minutes, though some may take several days. Apply before booking flights.
Cost: CAD $7

Not required for U.S. citizens or when entering by land or sea. Must have a valid passport, email address, and credit/debit card to apply. eTA is electronically linked to passport.

Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) Required

Usually up to 6 months per visit; visa validity varies (single or multiple entry, typically up to 10 years)

Citizens of countries not on the visa-exempt list must obtain a visitor visa before traveling to Canada

How to Apply: Apply online or through a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country. Requires biometrics (fingerprints and photo). Processing time varies by country, typically 2-8 weeks or longer.

Required for citizens of China, India, Philippines, Vietnam, Russia, Brazil, South Africa, most African countries, and many others. Check the Government of Canada website for the complete list. Cost is CAD $100 per person plus biometrics fee of CAD $85.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival in Moncton (or your first point of entry into Canada), you'll go through immigration and customs screening conducted by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). The process is designed to be efficient while ensuring border security.

Document Preparation

Before approaching the immigration counter, have your passport, eTA/visa confirmation, return ticket, and any supporting documents ready for inspection.

Primary Inspection

Present your passport and travel documents to a CBSA officer. They will verify your identity, travel authorization, and ask questions about your visit. Many airports also use automated kiosks for eligible travelers.

Declaration

Complete a declaration card (or use the electronic kiosk) declaring all goods you're bringing into Canada, including items you must pay duty on and any restricted items.

Secondary Inspection (if required)

Some travelers are selected for additional screening. Officers may ask more detailed questions, review additional documents, or inspect luggage. Cooperate fully and answer honestly.

Baggage Claim and Customs

Collect your luggage and proceed through customs. You may be selected for baggage inspection. Declare all required items truthfully.

Entry Granted

Once cleared, you're free to enter Canada and continue to Moncton. Your passport may be stamped indicating your allowed length of stay.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for the duration of your stay. Recommended to have at least 6 months validity beyond your planned departure date.

eTA or Visa

Confirmation of your Electronic Travel Authorization or visitor visa approval (electronically linked to passport).

Proof of Onward Travel

Return ticket or itinerary showing you plan to leave Canada. Border officers may ask to see this.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate you can support yourself during your stay.

Accommodation Details

Hotel reservations, host's address, or detailed itinerary of where you'll be staying.

Invitation Letter (if applicable)

If visiting friends or family, a letter of invitation with host's contact information and status in Canada.

Travel Insurance

While not mandatory, proof of travel health insurance is highly recommended and may be requested.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Be honest and concise in your answers. Border officers are trained to detect inconsistencies.

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching the immigration counter.

Dress appropriately and be polite and respectful to border officers.

Don't volunteer unnecessary information, but answer all questions directly and truthfully.

If traveling for business, be clear that you're not working in Canada - attending meetings or conferences is generally acceptable for visitors.

Keep contact information for your accommodation and any Canadian contacts readily available.

Declare all items that require declaration, even if you're unsure - it's better to declare than face penalties.

Allow extra time for the entry process, especially during peak travel periods.

Ensure your mobile phone is charged in case you need to show electronic confirmations or bookings.

Customs & Duty-Free

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) regulates what you can bring into Canada. You must declare all goods, including gifts, on your declaration card. Duty-free allowances apply to returning residents and visitors.

Alcohol

1.5 liters of wine OR 1.14 liters of spirits OR 8.5 liters of beer (or a combination within limits)

Must be of legal drinking age in the province/territory where you enter (19 in New Brunswick). Amounts exceeding limits are subject to duty and taxes.

Tobacco

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

Must be 18 years or older. Amounts exceeding limits are subject to duty and taxes. Some provinces have additional restrictions.

Currency

No limit on amount, but must declare CAD $10,000 or more

Declaration required for currency or monetary instruments (cash, bonds, traveler's checks, etc.) valued at CAD $10,000 or more. Applies to Canadian or foreign currency combined. Failure to declare can result in seizure and penalties.

Gifts and Personal Goods

Gifts valued up to CAD $60 per gift are duty-free (excluding alcohol, tobacco, and advertising material)

Personal exemptions vary based on length of absence for returning residents. Visitors should declare all items. Items for commercial use are not eligible for exemptions.

Prohibited Items

Firearms and weapons (without proper permits and authorization) - strict regulations apply
Illegal drugs and narcotics - including cannabis products from other countries
Certain food products - fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy from most countries due to disease concerns
Endangered species products - items made from protected animals or plants under CITES
Hate propaganda and obscene materials - publications, films, or materials deemed harmful
Counterfeit goods - fake designer items, pirated media, and copyright violations
Explosive and incendiary devices - fireworks, flares (without proper authorization)
Used or second-hand mattresses - health regulation prohibition

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be in original packaging with prescription label; bring only personal supply (up to 90 days)
Firearms and weapons - require advance declaration, proper permits (Possession and Acquisition License), and may be prohibited entirely; declare before arrival
Plants and plant products - may require phytosanitary certificates and inspection; many are prohibited
Animal products and pets - require health certificates, vaccination records, and advance arrangements
Certain food items - some processed foods allowed but must be declared; restrictions vary by country of origin
Large amounts of currency - amounts over CAD $10,000 must be declared but are not prohibited
Vehicles and boats - special importation procedures and duties may apply
Cultural property and heritage items - may require export permits from country of origin

Health Requirements

Canada has minimal mandatory health requirements for most travelers, but staying informed about current health measures and having appropriate insurance is essential.

Required Vaccinations

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

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, etc.) should be up to date
Seasonal influenza vaccine during flu season
COVID-19 vaccination (requirements have evolved; check current status)
Hepatitis A and B for certain travelers
Rabies for those planning outdoor activities in remote areas

Health Insurance

Canada does not have mandatory health insurance requirements for entry, but travel health insurance is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED. Canadian healthcare is expensive for visitors, and emergency medical treatment can cost thousands of dollars. Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. U.S. visitors should verify their insurance coverage extends to Canada.

Current Health Requirements: Health requirements can change rapidly based on global health situations. Check the Government of Canada's travel health notices and COVID-19 requirements before departure. As of late 2024, most COVID-19 entry restrictions have been lifted, but requirements may be reinstated. Visit the official Canada.ca website and consult with your healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations and health precautions for your specific situation.

Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

Official website: www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship

For visa applications, eTA information, and official immigration guidance. Call centre: 1-888-242-2100 (within Canada)

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)

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

For customs and border-related questions, declaration requirements, and prohibited items

Emergency Services

911

For police, ambulance, and fire emergencies throughout Moncton and New Brunswick

Your Country's Embassy or Consulate

Locate your embassy or consulate in Canada (most are in Ottawa, with consulates in major cities)

Register with your embassy before traveling. Check your government's travel advisory for Canada and emergency contact numbers.

Greater Moncton International Airport

Phone: +1-506-856-5444 - Website: www.cyqm.ca

For flight information and airport services

Tourism Moncton

Phone: 1-800-363-4558 - Website: www.tourismmoncton.ca

For visitor information, attractions, and local assistance

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children under 18 must have their own passport (or be included on parent's passport if issued before 2013). If traveling with only one parent or guardian, carry a consent letter from the non-accompanying parent(s) authorizing the trip, including contact information and notarized if possible. If traveling with children who are not your own, carry written permission from parents/guardians and copies of their identification. Border officers are vigilant about child abduction and will ask detailed questions. Divorced or separated parents should carry custody documents.

Traveling with Pets

Dogs and cats from most countries must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate (dogs over 3 months old). Certificate must show vaccination at least 30 days before entry and be current. Young puppies and kittens may have additional requirements. Service animals must meet the same health requirements. Birds, reptiles, and other animals have specific import permits and health requirements - contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) well in advance. Some breeds of dogs are restricted. Pets must be examined at the border and may be quarantined if health requirements aren't met.

Extended Stays or Study/Work

Tourist visitors are typically allowed to stay up to 6 months. To extend your stay, apply to IRCC at least 30 days before your status expires. Working or studying in Canada requires separate permits obtained before arrival - you cannot work on a visitor visa. Study permits are required for programs longer than 6 months. Work permits require a job offer and Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) in most cases. Young people from certain countries may be eligible for International Experience Canada (IEC) working holiday permits. Overstaying can result in deportation and future entry bans.

Business Visitors

Business visitors can attend meetings, conferences, and trade shows without a work permit, but cannot enter the Canadian labor market. You must demonstrate you're not seeking employment, will be paid by a foreign employer, and the primary source of income and business is outside Canada. Bring a letter from your employer detailing the purpose of your visit. Some business activities may require a work permit - check IRCC guidelines. Business visitors follow the same eTA/visa requirements as tourists.

Dual Citizens

Canadian dual citizens must enter Canada with a valid Canadian passport. You cannot use your other country's passport to enter Canada, even if that country is visa-exempt. U.S.-Canadian dual citizens can show proof of Canadian citizenship (passport or citizenship card) but are encouraged to travel with a Canadian passport. Dual citizens should also carry their other passport for re-entry to their other country of citizenship.

Criminal Record or Previous Immigration Violations

Individuals with criminal records (including DUI/DWI) may be inadmissible to Canada. This includes convictions from any country. You may need to apply for a Temporary Resident Permit or Criminal Rehabilitation before traveling. Previous immigration violations, including overstays, can also affect admissibility. Be honest if asked about criminal history - border officers have access to international databases. Lying can result in permanent ban. Apply for necessary permits well in advance as processing can take months.

Planning your trip? Make sure you have the right travel insurance for Moncton Entry Requirements before you go.