Citizens of visa-exempt countries (EU, UK, etc.) need an eTA ($7 CAD, online). Citizens of Russia, Ukraine, China, India, and others need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). eTA valid for 5 years, allows stays up to 6 months. eTA not required for land entry, only flights.

Medical insurance is MANDATORY — healthcare is very expensive for tourists. Doctor visit costs $100-300 CAD, ambulance $500-1000 CAD, hospitalization thousands per day. Minimum coverage: $100,000 CAD. Include evacuation and repatriation. Check winter sports coverage if skiing.

Tips 15-20% are mandatory in restaurants (not included in bill). Taxis: 15%. Hairdressers: 15-20%. Prices shown are BEFORE tax — 5-15% added at checkout (varies by province). Cards accepted everywhere but small places may have $10 minimum. Chip-and-PIN cards preferred.

Canada is huge — domestic flights needed for long distances. Car rental ideal for flexibility, especially in Rocky Mountains. VIA Rail offers scenic routes but slow. Intercity buses (FlixBus, Rider Express) are budget option. In cities: metro (Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver), buses, Uber/Lyft.