Foreign travel advice

Canada

Health

Before you travel, check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 911 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check:

  • the latest information on health risks and what vaccinations you need for Canada on TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre)
  • where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Canada, including the ski and hiking destinations in the Canadian Rockies, such as Banff and Lake Louise. More information about altitude sickness is available from TravelHealthPro.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

TravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines.

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.

Healthcare facilities in Canada

The cost of medical treatment can be very expensive. There are no special arrangements for British visitors. 

For emergency healthcare, go to a hospital emergency room or a walk-in clinic.

If you have dual British-Canadian citizenship, you may still have to pay for medical treatment if you don’t meet provincial residency requirements for healthcare. Check with the relevant province or territory for more information.

COVID-19 healthcare in Canada

Check the latest information on risk from COVID-19 for Canada on TravelHealthPro.

Seek medical assistance if you develop COVID-19 symptoms while in Canada. Follow the advice from Public Health Canada  for updates and guidance. These Twitter accounts are also official sources of information and guidance:

The TravelHealthPro website has more advice on travel abroad and reducing spread of respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro.