How to Travel Between Canada and the USA on a Tourist Visa

This article was last updated and fact checked on October 21, 2024 by Mani Karthik.

So, you’ve got a tourist visa for the U.S., and you’re thinking, “Can I hop over to Canada as well?”

Good question! The short answer is yes—but it depends on a few factors.

Traveling between Canada and the USA on a tourist visa can be relatively smooth if you’re aware of the requirements and logistics.

Let’s break it down and guide you through the process of border-hopping between these two neighboring countries.

1. Do You Need a Visa to Enter Canada?

The first thing to figure out is whether you need a visa to visit Canada. Your U.S. tourist visa doesn’t automatically allow you to enter Canada.

Who Needs a Visa?

• Indian citizens: Yes, if you’re an Indian passport holder, you’ll need to apply for a Canadian visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa).
• Other nationalities: Check if your country is part of Canada’s visa-exempt countries. If you’re from one of these, you may just need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.

Tip: Apply for your Canadian visa before planning your travel to avoid delays. You can apply online or through a visa application center.

2. Crossing the Border: Documents You Need

Traveling between Canada and the U.S. requires some specific documentation, depending on your mode of transport.

By Air:

• Valid passport: Make sure your passport is up-to-date and will be valid for the duration of your stay in both the U.S. and Canada.
• U.S. tourist visa (B1/B2): This allows you to enter the U.S. and return after visiting Canada.
• Canadian visitor visa: Required for Indian citizens and certain other nationalities.
• Return ticket: Border officials may ask to see proof that you plan to return home after your trip.

By Land (Car or Bus):

• Passport: Just like air travel, you’ll need your passport.
• U.S. tourist visa: Keep your B1/B2 visa handy for when you re-enter the U.S.
• Canadian visitor visa: This is a must for Indian travelers.
• Proof of funds and itinerary: You may need to show proof that you have enough money for your trip and details of your travel itinerary.

Tip: At the land border, the crossing can sometimes be quicker, but you’ll still need all the documents ready for inspection.

3. How Long Can You Stay in Canada?

Once you’re in Canada, how long can you stay? Usually, visitors are allowed to stay for up to six months at a time, but the immigration officer at the border will decide how long you’re allowed to stay based on your travel plans.

Your U.S. visa is unaffected by your stay in Canada, so long as it remains valid when you return.

Tip: Be upfront with the border officials about your travel plans and the duration of your stay in both countries to avoid any confusion or issues.

4. Returning to the USA: What to Know

After your trip to Canada, returning to the U.S. with a tourist visa is possible—but you need to make sure you follow the rules.

Key Points to Consider:

• Re-entry permit: With a B1/B2 visa, you’re generally allowed to re-enter the U.S. after visiting Canada. However, it’s at the discretion of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers, who may ask about your trip and ensure your visa is still valid.
• Stay duration: You can’t automatically reset your six-month U.S. tourist visa limit by visiting Canada. CBP officers might limit your stay on re-entry based on how long you’ve already spent in the U.S.
• Proof of ongoing travel: Be prepared to show that you still intend to leave the U.S. at the end of your stay, such as a return ticket to your home country.

Tip: Always carry all your important documents, such as proof of funds and accommodation, when returning to the U.S. to make re-entry smoother.

5. Things to Keep in Mind

ESTA and Canadian eTA:

• If you’re from a visa-exempt country traveling to the U.S. on an ESTA, you’ll also need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for Canada. Be sure both are valid when crossing the border.

Double-Check Visa Validity:

• Before you travel between Canada and the U.S., ensure that both your U.S. and Canadian visas are valid. Expired visas could lead to problems at the border.

Customs and Duties:

• When crossing the border, remember that you’ll pass through customs on both sides. If you’re bringing any goods with you, be sure to declare them to avoid fines or penalties.

Tip: Always be respectful and patient with border officials—they can ask detailed questions, and it’s important to stay calm and polite.

Conclusion

Traveling between the USA and Canada on a tourist visa can be an exciting and seamless experience if you prepare properly.

While your U.S. tourist visa won’t get you into Canada, having the right visas and documents in place can make the whole process easy.

Enjoy your trip across the border and take in the best of both worlds!