Note: Please be careful when traveling to the U.S. via Canada.

-Documents required for travel to the U.S. via Canada

When traveling to the United States via Canada, certain documents are required. First, you must obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) to enter the United States. This is mandatory for travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program and can be applied for online. Approval is usually granted within a few minutes to 72 hours, so please apply well in advance of your departure.

On the other hand, eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is required for Japanese citizens traveling through Canada. eTA is necessary for Japanese citizens visiting Canada by air, and can be easily applied for online. It usually takes less than a few minutes to be approved, but for your own safety, we recommend that you apply for it as soon as possible. The eTA is valid for 5 years, but you will need to re-apply if you get a new passport or your personal information changes.

A valid passport is also a must. Be careful about the expiration date, which in most cases must remain valid for at least 6 months from the time of departure. Make sure that your passport number, personal information, and other details are correct as well.

In addition, there may be additional documents or requirements depending on your travel itinerary and airline, so please check with your airline or travel agent in advance to ensure that you are prepared without any shortfalls. Also, check the latest information on restrictions and requirements related to new coronavirus infection, and additional documents (e.g., vaccination certificates) may be required accordingly.

By preparing the above documents and procedures well in advance, you will have a smooth transit and a worry-free itinerary, so please do not forget to have them ready.

-The difference between ESTA and eTA and how to obtain them

When traveling to the U.S. via Canada, it is important to understand the difference between ESTA and eTA and to obtain each properly. First, ESTA stands for "Electronic System for Travel Authorization" and is an electronic travel authorization system required for citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program, including Japan, to travel to the United States. On the other hand, eTA stands for "Electronic Travel Authorization" and is an electronic travel authorization required for travel to a third country via Canada or for a short stay in Canada.

ESTA must be applied for online before entering the U.S. and is usually approved within 72 hours. The application requires passport information and details of travel plans. The fee can be paid by credit card, and once approved, the application is valid for two years, during which time the passport must remain valid.

The eTA, on the other hand, is for air travelers to Canada and also requires an online application. You will usually be notified of the results within a few minutes, but be sure to apply well in advance to be on the safe side. The fee is relatively inexpensive and can be paid by credit or debit card. The validity period is 5 years, but you will need to re-apply if you get a new passport or if your personal information changes.

To ensure that these procedures proceed smoothly, please access directly from the respective official websites to check the latest information. We also recommend that you contact the official support center if you have any questions or problems. By taking these precautions without fail, you will be able to proceed with your travel plans with peace of mind.

-About the immigration inspection at the time of transit

The following is an explanation of immigration requirements for transit through Canada to the United States. Transit travel in Canada usually requires immigration clearance. This is because even if your final destination is the U.S., you will enter Canada once.

First, follow the instructions for transit at the airport you arrive at. In most cases, you will see signs such as "International Connections" or "US Connections". Then, head to the Canadian immigration area. At this point, have your passport and necessary documents ready.

Particular attention should be paid to cases where an eTA (electronic travel authorization) is required. Although Japanese nationals can usually travel from Japan to Canada without a visa, it is necessary to obtain this eTA in advance. It is recommended that you complete the procedure as soon as possible, as it can be applied for online and is valid for 5 years or until the expiration date of your passport.

At immigration, you will be asked basic questions. You will be asked questions such as "Where do you plan to go?", "How long will you stay in Japan?", and "What is your purpose? You may also be asked to provide biometric information at this stage, such as fingerprints or a photograph of your face.

After the formalities, proceed to the baggage inspection area. Here you will be subjected to another security check, so please make sure that all liquids and electronic devices are easily removed from your carry-on luggage. You will then proceed to your boarding gate.

As a final note, plan to allow plenty of time for connections. Some airports can experience significant delays due to congestion and processing times, so as a safety measure, it is best to allow 2-3 hours for your flight. Please keep these points in mind to ensure a safe and smooth itinerary.

Baggage claim and re-check-in procedures

The following is a detailed explanation of the baggage claim and re-check-in procedures for travel to the U.S. via Canada. First, if you are making a connection at a Canadian airport, you will usually need to pick up your baggage once. This is to allow you to pass through customs and immigration when entering Canada.

At the airport upon arrival, you will first go through immigration and then to the baggage claim area to pick up your baggage. Here, pick up your baggage from the turnstile where your flight number is displayed. Then fill out the Customs Declaration Form, if required, and proceed to the Customs Inspection area. Even if you do not have anything specific to declare, you will always go through this process once you do.

Next, you will connect to a flight to the U.S. In most cases, you will need to check your baggage again at the check-in counter or in the dedicated transit area. Please have your ticket and passport ready at this time. Some airports also offer a service where you can re-check your baggage directly in the transit lounge, so the process may vary depending on the airport you are visiting.

As a further precaution, please check with your airline and the latest information before departure, as regulations and procedures may differ among airlines and airports. It is also recommended that you allow sufficient time for connections as this process may take some time.

By preparing yourself for a smooth trip through this process, you will be able to travel to the United States without any worries. We wish you a safe and comfortable trip.

-Points to ensure transit time

When traveling to the U.S. via Canada, it is very important to allow time for connections. If the connection time is too short, you may end up rushing through procedures and transfers. Here are some tips on how to ensure a good connection time.

The first consideration is the choice of flight schedule. When booking your airline ticket, keep in mind to choose one that allows enough transit time in Canada. Generally, it is recommended to allow at least 2-3 hours. This time will allow you to calmly go through immigration, baggage screening, and other procedures.

Next, it is a good idea to gather information about the facilities and gate layouts in the airport in advance. In most major airports, terminal maps are available online, so it is a good idea to know the distance between your arrival gate and departure gate and how to get there. Some airports also offer dedicated apps, which can be even more convenient.

In addition, check in early on the day of your flight and make sure you know where you need to go. Especially if you are visiting an airport for the first time, you should also use the signage to help you navigate without getting lost. Also, be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances, so be sure to act early.

Last but not least, please consider the possibility of uncertainty. For example, delays due to bad weather may be unavoidable. Therefore, it is safer to plan your entire trip with an extra day in reserve. This kind of preparation and preparedness will lead to a smooth transit experience.

-Convenient services and facilities at Canada Airport

If you are flying to the United States via Canada, knowing about the convenient services and facilities offered at Canadian airports will make your transit easier. First, many major Canadian airports offer free Wi-Fi. This allows you to use the Internet to gather information and keep in touch with family and friends during your transit time.

The airport also offers an abundance of dining and shopping areas. Local specialties and international brand products are available for a quick shopping and dining experience. It is recommended that you take advantage of these facilities to refresh yourself, especially if you are in transit for a long time.

In addition, many airports are equipped with lounges. For a fee, lounges offer comfortable seating, snacks and beverages, and shower facilities. If you have Priority Pass, you can also take advantage of free access to some lounges.

For families, there may be a kids' play area, so you can bring your little ones along. Some airports also offer unique services such as fitness centers and sleep pods so you can rest in a way that works for you.

Lastly, our multilingual staff provides information services, so please feel free to consult with them if you have any questions or problems. By taking advantage of this wide variety of services and facilities, your itinerary to the U.S. via Canada will be more comfortable.