‘Chilled’ is the ideal word to describe Canada, a nation as famous for its cool temperatures as it is for its relaxed inhabitants. Canada is the ultimate multi-national nation with the largest percentage of immigration in the world. A vast range of different cultures have been welcomed into this friendly nation, yet despite its varied population, much of the country remains largely untouched. The majority of Canadians live close to the border with the United States, which leaves huge areas of remote and unspoilt country for you to explore at your leisure. From lively, cosmopolitan cities such as Toronto and Montreal, to a world of peace and solitude in the famous Rocky Mountains, you’ll never be short of variety in Canada. From grizzly bears to cold beers, from moose to maple syrup this is a country with a fantastic range of things to do, see and experience. Just make sure you wrap up warm before you set off on your Canadian gap year adventure.
When you think of Canada, you picture Banff. This is where you go to experience the country’s awe-inspiring wilderness in all its glory, from epic expanses of jade forest to the rugged peaks of the Canadian Rockies and bright turquoise pools like Lake Louise. Canada’s first-ever national park is calling you into adventure paradise…
Home to a global melting pot of cultures and one of the most LGBTQIA+ friendly scenes in the world, Toronto welcomes all travellers with open arms. Discover the best of Canada’s vibrant nightlife and take a foodie adventure around the globe all in one place. Of course, who could forget about the Hockey Hall of Fame?
Towering mountains meet enchanting lakeside views in Jasper, the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies territory. Between kayaking across crystal-clear waters, hiking through jaw-dropping canyons and chasing adrenaline rushes with whitewater rafting, a wealth of activities awaits in Jasper National Park.
North America’s largest waterfall is a mighty force of nature split between Canada and the USA. Discover the beauty of this epic natural wonder up close on a cruise, or marvel at it from above as you zipline or take a helicopter ride over the waters. If there is one thing you have to see here, it has to be the mesmerising Horseshoe Falls!
Backed by mountains and facing out to the sea, the landscapes of Vancouver make it a strong contender for one of our favourite cities in the world. From the stunning harbour to secret beaches, treetop trails and giant stretches of greenery inside Stanley Park, nature is never far away while discovering Vancouver on our Canada group tours.
Just when you think you have seen it all on our Canada group tours, Whistler beckons. Picture yourself hiking through blossoming meadows with snowy mountain peaks in the background, or gliding from peak to peak on a scenic gondola ride. From ziplining to canoe adventures, Whistler is just as magical beyond its legendary ski season.
Vancouver Island is one of those destinations that you could spend a lifetime exploring and still find something new at every corner. Escape to the sleepy surfer town of Tofino, where golden sand greets you, or wander the ancient rainforest trails along rugged shores. Canada's gorgeous wildlife thrives here, including whales!
Adventure calls in Yoho National Park, one of Canada’s greatest kept secrets. Inside this enchanted haven, you can expect to find glacial waterfalls that cascade from astonishing heights and secluded hiking trails along the sapphire lakes. Soak in its breathtaking atmosphere as you dive deeper into the Canadian Rockies' stunning hidden gems.
So you’ve fallen in love with Canada and are asking yourself the question, “Should I move here?” The answer is yes! Although places on this working holiday programme can be competitive, choosing Canada for a gap year is immensely rewarding. Experience the best of both worlds, paid work and travel, and find your second home today.
Canada = Maple syrup and lots of it! Canada is home to many Maple trees, and the Maple leaf has become the national symbol of Canada, even featuring centrally on its national flag. Maple syrup is the valuable and delicious product of the Maple tree and is widely used in Canada - you can try it on anything from pancakes to waffles, and even with bacon. Maple Syrup comes in different grades so if you have a sweet tooth make sure you try them all!
Canadian cuisine also offers a great line in cheeses and meats, whilst the French influence means French cuisine is alive and well in Canada. Toronto’s wide range of cultural influences means that you can find excellent Indian and Chinese food options to enjoy. There is plenty to tantalise your taste buds if you choose to spend your gap year in Canada!
They say variety is the spice of life, and Canada is perfect if you want to try a completely new experience and steer away from the usual sun, sea and sand options. Or you can plan it in to a wider itinerary and also take in some sunnier destinations to complement your visit to Canada. Seasons are the same as in Britain, with May to September being the warmer months and the best time to visit if you want to avoid the freezing winters. Be aware though, there can be summer thunderstorms and even tornadoes at this time of year. Canada has a reputation as a cold country but that is part of its charm; if you choose to brave the winter be prepared for much colder conditions than you expect at home, with plenty of snow! This icy environment can make for some beautiful scenery where everything is crisp and clear and the beers are always refreshingly cool! Also you can jump on a snowmobile and try out the wonderful array of winter sports and activities on offer. Enjoy the stunning view to snow-capped mountains or visit the brightly-lit inviting cities where you can curl up in a warm bar after a day out in the snow.
Visas may be required depending on your nationality, travel plans, and length of stay. Below are the FCDO travel advice for British travellers. Entry rules can change at any time, so always check with the relevant embassy before travelling.
To make things easier, we’ve partnered with The Travel Visa Company, a UK-based visa specialist. Their team can guide you on requirements and, for a fee, apply for visas on your behalf.
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Canada’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Canada set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK.
To enter Canada, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.
If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from Canada, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport.
When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual Citizenship.
To enter or transit through Canada, most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) – not both.
Check if you need a visa or an eTA online.
You do not need a visa for short visits (normally up to 6 months). You may need an eTA instead.
You do not need an eTA, if you are:
See Canada’s entry requirements for full details of eTA and visa requirements.
Contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK if you are unsure about visa requirements or your eligibility to enter the country, for example, if you have a criminal record or have been arrested.
Canadian border officials may ask you to show a return or onward ticket and proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay, even if you are staying with family or friends.
See information on visas for permanent residence, study or work in Canada.
As a public health measure, Canada has introduced temporary border measures for travellers arriving from regions affected by the Ebola outbreak.
Canada is suspending certain immigration documents for residents of the Democratic Republic of 4Congo, Uganda and South Sudan until August 28, 2026.
Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and foreign nationals entering Canada who, in the previous 21 days, have been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda or South Sudan will be given a health assessment upon arrival. Those who do not have symptoms will have to quarantine for 21 days. If they do not have a place where they can quarantine safely, they will be provided with an appropriate location. Travellers who have symptoms will be isolated at a hospital for further assessment. These measures are being implemented under the Quarantine Act. This border measure will be in place until August 29, 2026.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared this a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
Check the Government of Canada’s official website for more information.
If you are travelling through Canada (transiting) by air, you must have an eTA or a transit visa.
If you have questions, contact:
Find out more about transiting Canada.
Some unauthorised websites charge for submitting visa applications. These websites are not associated with the Canadian government.
You can check your eTA status online with the Canadian government. If it has been 72 hours since you applied, and you have not received confirmation of your application, complete an enquiry form.
If a child travels alone or with only one parent or legal guardian, they should carry a letter of consent from the non-travelling parents or guardians. Immigration officers have the right to question children using simple and appropriate language to see if there are any concerns about child abduction.
For more information, check with the Canadian High Commission in the UK or the Canada Border Services Agency.
For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Canada guide.
There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Canada. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
The Canadian authorities will confiscate banned food products and you could get a fine. For more information, see importing food, plants or animals to Canada.
If you visit a farm or have contact with wild animals before entering Canada, and plan to visit a farm during your stay, you must declare this on your Customs Declaration Card. For more information, see biosecurity at the Canadian border.
Canada is similar to the U.K. in many of its cultural heritage and customs although it is a bilingual country with many inhabitants speaking French as well as English.
There are no specific health warnings associated with travelling to Canada, however you should visit your GP at least six weeks before your departure to ensure you are up to date with all of your jabs.
Please check our general guide to health when travelling.
During the winter months severe snow storms can occur. Check the environment Canada website regularly for warnings about weather: http://www.ec.gc.ca/ otherwise please refer to our general guide to safety when travelling.
We do not recommend hiring motorbikes, scooters, ATV vehicles, quad bikes or other types of motorised vehicles whilst abroad. Safety and quality of vehicles vary considerably and the traffic conditions can be much more dangerous than what UK travellers are used to. Should you wish to go against this advice, you should ensure you are hiring from a reputable company and that your travel insurance covers you for such activities.
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