Help CenterImportant: This is only for participants in our Direct Placement program. For information about traveling to Canada as part of our First-Time program then see our topic articles in 'Pre-Departure Preparation'
Keep in mind: Your electronic travel authorization (eTA) allows you to fly to, or transit through, a Canadian airport. You need to obtain a work permit at the border with the documents we will provide you.
We must have a verified eTA before you fly to Canada. You can read our article on how to apply and/or review your eTA status.
Your Flight to Camp
You will need to organize your own flights, and your own onward travel to camp, speak to your camp director if you need more detailed information.
Always arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to your scheduled departure. Check the screens for the latest gate info as they may change.
It’s not mandatory to book a return flight before you come to Canada if you prefer not to, however, you may be asked to show sufficient funds to book a return flight home. We highly recommend booking a return flight as this is the cheaper option.
I’m considering a connecting flight in Canada, what should I do?
If you have a connecting flight in another Canadian city before reaching your destination, you will need to obtain your work permit at your port of entry (i.e., the first Canadian airport you land in).
While this is not a problem, it can often take some time to get through immigration at the airport. If you are considering a flight with a Canadian stopover, we recommend giving yourself 4 hours before your connecting flight; however no timeline is guaranteed as it depends on how busy things are at immigration at any given time.
If you have already booked a flight with a Canadian stopover and you are concerned about the amount of time you have at the layover airport, reach out to your airline, explain your situation and see if it is possible to adjust your flight plan to accommodate a longer stopover or a stopover in a different country.
Generally, if you miss a connecting flight the airline will assist you and re-book you onto the next available flight - however, this is not guaranteed, especially with budget airlines like Air Transat.
I have a connecting flight in the USA, what should I do?
If you are on a connecting flight through the USA, you must have an approved ESTA or VISA application.
You will not be allowed to board your flight without this. There are many third-party websites that offer ESTA services, but apply through the official ESTA website. The fee for this application is $21 USD.
Do I need a return flight ticket?
Canadian officials don't require you to have a return ticket when you enter Canada, but you may be asked to prove that you can buy one. This means showing your credit card or proof of funds.
In the past, we have found some airlines may require that you buy a return ticket so please check with the airline directly.
Can I arrive earlier than my contract start date?
If you choose to arrive significantly earlier than your employment start date, the immigration officer may not issue your work permit but instead enter you as a visitor. If this case occurs, it will be your responsibility to obtain your work permit by re-entering Canada.
Without a work permit, you cannot work at camp.
Previously, you could re-enter Canada at the US land border to obtain a work permit –this is no longer an option.
We strongly encourage you to arrive close to your suggested arrival date to avoid this situation.
I have my flight details, what do I do?
If you've booked your flights, please ensure you've organized onward travel to your camp with your camp director to avoid being stuck at the airport.