Is Canada Safe to Travel to in 2026?
Risk level: Low-Moderate risk
Last updated
Overview
Large, wealthy, and generally very safe country with high quality of life. Most areas are calm and orderly, though some major cities have visible social issues such as homelessness and open drug use.
Best time to visit
Varies: most cities are best May to September; ski season is roughly December to March; far north is summer-only for most visitors.
Safety
Low violent crime in most of the country. Petty theft, car break-ins, and scams are common in big cities. Some urban areas have visible homelessness, open drug use, and disorder (particularly parts of Vancouver and Toronto). Rural and suburban areas are generally extremely safe. Gun violence is much lower than in the United States.
Recommendations
Be cautious of petty theft and scams in major cities (especially Toronto and Vancouver). Avoid walking alone at night in certain downtown areas. Be prepared for extreme cold in winter - dress in layers and check weather forecasts. Use common sense in urban centers. Domestic flights are often the most practical way to cover long distances.
Health and tap water
Tap water: Excellent — generally safe to drink from the tap.
Excellent healthcare system, though wait times for non-emergency care can be long. Tap water is safe to drink across the country. Pharmacies are well-stocked and easy to access.
Entry and exit
Visa required for most nationalities (eTA for visa-exempt travelers). Entry process is generally straightforward and efficient.
Laws
Strict gun control compared to the United States. Drug laws vary by province but are generally more lenient than in the U.S. Police are professional and corruption is very low.
Other notes
Incredible natural beauty and vast wilderness. The country is extremely car-dependent outside major cities, and distances between places can be enormous - flying is often more practical than driving for longer trips. Winters are long and harsh in most of the country. Major cities have good public transport, but service is limited in smaller towns. Culture is generally polite and reserved. Tipping (15-20%) is expected in restaurants and for many services. Food is diverse and generally decent quality, though portions tend to be large. Healthcare is excellent but can involve long wait times for non-urgent issues. The country feels very safe and well-organized in most areas. If planning to hike the northern wilderness or remote areas, be prepared for extreme weather and limited services.
Emergency numbers: Police 911, Ambulance 911, Fire 911.
Regional risk notes for Canada
- Ontario (Toronto, Ottawa) — Low-Moderate risk: Large and varied province. Toronto has some petty crime and visible urban issues, but overall Ontario is safe and well-organized. Ottawa is particularly calm.
- Québec (Montreal, Quebec City) — Low-Moderate risk: Generally safe and pleasant. Montreal has some petty crime in tourist areas, but Quebec City is very orderly. Most of the province feels calm and well-managed.
- British Columbia (Vancouver) — Moderate risk: Vancouver has significant visible homelessness, open drug use, and petty crime in many areas. The rest of the province is generally much safer and more relaxed.
- Alberta — Low-Moderate risk: Very safe province overall. Low violent crime and strong sense of order. Calgary and Edmonton have some urban issues but remain manageable.
- Saskatchewan — Low-Moderate risk: Low crime rates and very safe in most areas. Rural and small-town character dominates. One of the calmer provinces.
- Manitoba — Low-Moderate risk: Generally safe outside of Winnipeg, which has some urban crime issues. Rural areas are very calm and low-risk.
- Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador) — Low-Moderate risk: Among the safest and most relaxed parts of Canada. Very low crime and friendly communities across the region.
- Yukon — Moderate risk: Extremely safe with very low crime. Main risks are the cold, weather and remoteness rather than violence or theft.
- Northwest Territories — Moderate risk: Very low crime. Extremely safe in terms of personal security. Isolation, cold and harsh weather are the main concerns.
- Nunavut — Moderate risk: Extremely safe from a crime perspective. Very low population and strong community ties. Isolation, cold and harsh weather are the main concerns.
Independent assessment — not a government advisory. Feedback: [email protected]