Canada Freedom Portal 2026

French citizens are visa-exempt but must obtain electronic authorization before flying.

• Online Application: Apply for the **Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)** via the official Canada.ca site. Approval typically takes minutes.
• Cost: Remains **$7 CAD** in 2026.
• Validity: Valid for **5 years** or until your passport expires. It is digitally linked to your passport.
• Entry: Allows stays of up to **6 months** for tourism, business, or transit.

As of 1 January 2026, financial requirements for students have increased dramatically.

• Quebec Mandate: Single students (18+) must show **$24,617 CAD** for living expenses, up from $15,508.
• Rest of Canada: Outside Quebec, the requirement is **$22,895 CAD**.
• CAQ: For Quebec, you must obtain a **Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ)** before applying for the federal study permit.
• Proof: Bank statements for the last 4 months, scholarship letters, or GICs are accepted.

French citizens residing in the archipelago of St Pierre and Miquelon have specific travel rights.

• Direct Entry: Residents do NOT need an eTA if flying directly to Canada from the islands.
• Return Exception: An eTA is required if returning to the islands via a flight from any country other than Canada.
• Identification: Must carry a valid French passport or proof of residency in the territory.

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has moved to a kiosk-first entry system.

• ArriveCAN: It is strongly recommended to submit your **CBSA Declaration** via the ArriveCAN app **72 hours** before landing to skip kiosk lines.
• Currency: You MUST declare cash or monetary instruments exceeding **$10,000 CAD**.
• Food & Plants: France's famous cheeses or meats must be declared. Fines for "forgotten" risk items can reach **$1,300+ CAD**.
• Electronic Devices: Be prepared to turn on devices at security; specific recalled power banks (e.g., Anker models) are prohibited on board.