Sherbrooke Entry Requirements

Children under 18 need their own passport and travel authorization (eTA or visa). If traveling with only one parent or with someone other than parents, carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) including contact information, trip details, and duration. If one parent has sole custody, bring legal documentation. Border officers are vigilant about child abduction and will question children separately if concerns arise. For divorced parents, bring custody documents. Children from visa-required countries need their own visitor visa.

Dogs and cats over 3 months old require a valid rabies vaccination certificate showing vaccination at least 30 days before entry (not required for puppies/kittens under 3 months from rabies-free countries). Certificate must identify the animal, vaccination date, expiry date, and veterinarian information. Service animals must still meet these requirements. Other pets may require permits from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Some breeds may be restricted by airline or province. Pet food must be declared and may be inspected. Emotional support animals are not recognized as service animals in Canada.

Tourist visitors are typically allowed to stay up to 6 months. To extend your stay, apply online at least 30 days before your current status expires. If you wish to study for more than 6 months, you need a study permit (apply before arriving in Canada). For working in Canada, you need a work permit. Super Visa is available for parents/grandparents of Canadian citizens/permanent residents, allowing stays of up to 5 years. Overstaying your authorized period can result in removal and future entry bans. If you wish to stay in Sherbrooke long-term, explore immigration programs through IRCC and Quebec immigration.

Business visitors can enter Canada without a work permit for specific activities like attending meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts. You cannot enter the Canadian labor market or receive payment from a Canadian source. Bring documents proving your business purpose: invitation letters, conference registration, proof of employment abroad, and evidence you'll leave Canada after your business is complete. Some business activities require a work permit, so verify your specific situation with IRCC.

Canadian dual citizens must enter and exit Canada using their Canadian passport. If you're a citizen of both Canada and a visa-exempt country, you cannot use your non-Canadian passport to enter Canada by air (eTA will be denied). If entering by land or sea, show proof of Canadian citizenship. Carry both passports when traveling internationally to facilitate entry to other countries.

Canadian Permanent Residents must present a valid PR card or Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) when returning to Canada. If your PR card has expired, you may face delays at the border. Ensure you meet residency obligations (physically present in Canada for at least 730 days in the past 5 years). If arriving without proper documents, you may not be able to board your flight or may face questioning at the border.

If you have a criminal record, even minor offenses, you may be inadmissible to Canada. DUI/DWI convictions can prevent entry. You may need to apply for Criminal Rehabilitation or a Temporary Resident Permit before traveling. Previous immigration violations (overstaying, working without authorization, misrepresentation) can result in entry bans. If you've been refused entry or deported from Canada, consult with an immigration lawyer before attempting to return. Disclose any issues honestly - border officers have access to extensive databases.