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Do Canadian citizens need a visa for USA?
Visa-free
Canadian citizens can enter the US visa-free for short stays. No ESTA needed for Canadian citizens entering with a Canadian passport.
Last verified: 2026-05-24 · Source:
official government page
At a glance
| Visa type | Visa exemption (Canadian citizens are not VWP — fully visa-free under the Canadian arrangement) |
|---|---|
| Maximum stay | Up to 6 months per entry |
| Processing time | On arrival |
| Application fee | Free |
| Passport validity required | Valid for stay |
| Where to apply | Not applicable |
How to apply, step by step
- Carry valid Canadian passport (or NEXUS / enhanced driver's licence for land entry).
- Present at US immigration.
- Officer determines stay length.
Document checklist
- Canadian passport
- Return travel (sometimes asked)
Frequently asked questions
Do Canadians need ESTA?
No — ESTA is for Visa Waiver Programme countries; Canadian citizens have a separate visa-free arrangement and don't apply for ESTA.
What happens if I overstay?
Fines, possible re-entry bans, and complications for future applications. Always exit before your authorised stay expires.
About this page
Compiled by Julia Heldmann. Cross-checked against the official government source linked above and the Wikipedia article on visa policy of USA.