Canada Arrival Card Guide: How to Complete Your Declaration
Planning a dream trip to Canada? Whether you’re imagining maple syrup in Quebec 🍁 or exploring the Canadian Rockies 🏔️, there’s one important thing you should do before you land — submit your Canada Advance Declaration (CAD) through the ArriveCAN app or website. 🛂
I just returned from a trip to Toronto, and let me tell you — using ArriveCAN saved me a ton of time at the airport. So here’s everything I learned to help my fellow Malaysians travel smoother.👇
📄 What’s the Canada Advance Declaration (CAD)?
The Canada Advance Declaration (CAD) is a digital arrival form introduced by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to streamline entry into the country. It lets you fill out your customs and immigration info online before your arrival.
🔍 In simple terms, it’s an online declaration that international travellers (including Malaysians) can fill in before landing in Canada. It collects:
- Full name & passport details
- Flight information
- Declaration of goods (like food, alcohol, etc.)
- Travel history & contact info
✅ After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation email or QR code, which you scan at self-service kiosks in Canadian airports — no paper forms needed!
🧾 Is CAD a Visa?
No, it’s not a visa. Malaysians need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) or a visitor visa to enter Canada depending on their travel purpose.
The CAD is not a visa — it’s a customs declaration form, similar to what we used to fill out on paper during flights, now done digitally through ArriveCAN.
🛃 Why Is It Important?
- ✈️ Speeds up the airport arrival process
- 📉 Reduces paper forms and manual checks
- 👮 Helps Canadian customs officers process entries faster
- ⏱️ Shorter queue times at self-service kiosks
- 📱 Accessible on mobile via ArriveCAN app or web
✅ Key Takeaways
- CAD is optional for now but highly recommended — some airports will make it mandatory soon
- You can submit via ArriveCAN app or online portal
- It’s free, easy, and makes immigration smoother
👥 Who Should Submit the Canada Arrival Declaration?
If you're a Malaysian citizen flying to Canada, you're eligible to submit the Advance Declaration using ArriveCAN. It’s supported at major Canadian airports, including:
- Toronto Pearson (YYZ)
- Vancouver (YVR)
- Montreal (YUL)
- Calgary (YYC)
- Halifax, Winnipeg, Quebec City, Ottawa, Edmonton — and more!
Even if you're entering visa-free with an eTA, it’s still a good idea to submit this digital form.
📝 How to Fill Out the Canada Advance Declaration
💻 Option 1: Online via Web Portal
Go to https://arrivecan.cbsa-asfc.cloud-nuage.canada.ca
✅ Step 1: Sign In or Continue as Guest
You can create an account (optional) or continue as a guest. If you plan to travel often, creating an account makes future trips faster.
✅ Step 2: Select Your Arrival Information
You’ll be asked to input:
- Arrival airport (e.g., Toronto Pearson, Vancouver, Montreal)
- Arrival date and time
- Flight number
- Country of departure (e.g., Malaysia)
🕐 Must be completed within 72 hours before your scheduled arrival in Canada.
✅ Step 3: Enter Your Personal Information
Provide:
- Full name (as in your passport)
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Email address (for your receipt)
✅ Step 4: Provide Travel Details
You’ll need:
- Your Canadian address (hotel, Airbnb, or friend’s home)
- Reason for travel (tourism, business, etc.)
- Length of stay (if known)
✅ Step 5: Complete the Customs Declaration
Answer standard customs questions such as:
- Are you bringing food, plants, or animals?
- Are you carrying more than CAD $10,000 in cash?
- Do you have gifts or commercial goods?
- Any duty-free or alcohol purchases?
🧳 Answer honestly — these are routine questions.
✅ Step 6: Review and Submit
- Double-check your info
- Click Submit
📧 You will receive a confirmation receipt with a QR code via email.
✅ Step 7: Save or Screenshot Your QR Code
📸 Take a screenshot or save it offline — you’ll need to scan it at:
- Airport kiosk
- E-gates (available at major airports)
- Or show it to a CBSA officer manually
📱 Option 2: ArriveCAN App
Download the ArriveCAN app on iOS or Android. Sign up, select your trip, and complete the Advance Declaration in under 5 minutes.
📧 You’ll get a digital receipt with a barcode — scan it at the airport kiosk for faster clearance!
✅ Quick Recap:
Question | Answer |
|---|---|
Is CAD a visa? | ❌ No |
Is it required? | 🔶 Optional but recommended |
Submit through? | ✅ ArriveCAN App or Website |
Cost? | ✅ Free |
Time to submit? | ⏰ Within 72 hours before arrival |
Benefits? | ⏱️ Faster immigration, no paper needed |
Cheap Hotels in Toronto
5 star
Great154 Ulasan
Downtown Toronto Toronto|0.81km dari pusat bandar
The room was a bit small, but still big enough to open two large suitcases. The hotel is historic, and the bathroom facilities seem to have been renovated, so it doesn't feel run-down, though the water pressure was quite low. The bedding was comfortable. There's an ice machine on my floor, and a LCBO (liquor store) connected to the underground level on B1, which is great for those who enjoy a drink. Since it was our anniversary, the receptionist gave us a room with a view of the CN Tower, which was a nice touch, and the chocolates we received at check-in were also delicious. The hotel's B1 level connects directly to the CN Tower, so the location is absolutely unbeatable. I would definitely stay here again if I have the chance.DariJPY 29,351
Very Good136 Ulasan
Entertainment District Toronto|0.51km dari pusat bandar
The location in Toronto's Financial District is impeccable. Breakfast is à la carte and costs extra. The room was a bit small, and although bath salts were provided for the tub, I didn't use them. I happened to be there during TIFF, so the lobby was a bit chaotic.DariJPY 91,319
Amazing114 Ulasan
Niagara Toronto|3.2km dari pusat bandar
The room was clean and tidy, the front desk staff was warm, the service was thoughtful, the sea was on the side, the scenery was very good, I would stay here in the future, very recommended, praise, praise, praise, praise, praise, praise, praise, praise, praise, praiseDariJPY 40,605
Amazing122 Ulasan
Church and Wellesley Toronto|2.12km dari pusat bandar
Still quite satisfied, lived well, lived for 10 days, the surrounding area was also visited, the restaurant also ate a few times. The spa is also reflected, the overall is not bad. The exterior is being built, the sound is always bad during the day, and there is a fire truck, you can hear a lot of times a day. Toiletries are not provided daily, they need to be explained, and the service attitude is OK. At least the brand is there. I hope I can have a better stay experience next time.DariJPY 101,905
Amazing109 Ulasan
Toronto|2.12km dari pusat bandar
When staying at the hotel, the front desk informed that all non-alcoholic beverages in the mini-bar are free because they have been prepaid.
After that, bring some desserts.
Someone knocked on the door at night, asking if a turndown service was needed.
Before leaving, I was told that there are additional charges: facility charge $12, Neighbourhood Mktg $4.89. This is required upon check-in.DariJPY 112,849
Amazing106 Ulasan
Fashion District Toronto|1.86km dari pusat bandar
Very sustainable hotel😂I forgot to bring toothpaste. I called and they said they didn't have any. The price of $650CAD+a night. Bottled water was also charged $7. There were no amenities but there was an Amenity Fee of $29 a night..1.5 languages
The service attitude was OK. The gym had no view. The swimming pool was only open for a few months in the summer. The rooftop bar was also closed due to recent maintenance. The price for two breakfasts booked on Ctrip was actually a $60 breakfast credit per day. The price was a bit expensive. The actual meal cost $60 per person. The excess and tax had to be paid extra. The taste was average.DariJPY 61,539
Great102 Ulasan
Entertainment District Toronto|1.19km dari pusat bandar
We had an amazing experience at the Soho hotel. The room was impeccable with a spacious closet area and huge bathroom. The room offered all the amenities. And the turn down service every evening was a nice touch.
The location was great as well. Many food establishments nearby and it was close to everywhere we planned on going.
We would definitely stay here again.DariJPY 38,053
Great97 Ulasan
Downtown Toronto Toronto|1.84km dari pusat bandar
The breakfast was very rich, the chef was very warm, the restaurant had a classic temperament, and I saw a chic wedding reception in the restaurant. It was really a very good hotel! The location is in the university town, surrounded by high-end residences, Remowa is next to it, the intersection is facing Hermes.... The bottom of the alley can directly enter the Victorian University campus, the living function is super good, from the BAY of Metro Line 2 STATION is also very close and the traffic is very convenient.DariJPY 66,641
Business travel
Great199 Ulasan
Downtown Toronto Toronto|0.28km dari pusat bandar
Centrally located, with City Hall Square just a short distance away. You can easily walk to the CN Tower and the University of Toronto. There are also plenty of dining options nearby. The room was clean and tidy, and well-equipped with amenities, including a coffee machine.DariJPY 29,088
Very Good277 Ulasan
Downtown Toronto Toronto|0.59km dari pusat bandar
The hotel upgraded me to a sea view room for free and allowed me to check in early. The front desk staff was excellent. Plus, the hotel's location is super convenient, with Chinese restaurants, a supermarket, and a convenience store nearby. It was a very pleasant stay.DariJPY 26,442
Great138 Ulasan
Downtown Toronto Toronto|1.35km dari pusat bandar
Nice place for business travel. Located in the downtown. 3mins walk to CN Tower. Perfect breakfast.DariJPY 39,198
Very Good386 Ulasan
Downtown Toronto Toronto|0.42km dari pusat bandar
The room was spacious with a great view and a convenient location, within walking distance to the Eaton Centre and Union Station, surrounded by major corporations like KPMG. The deposit was refunded quickly; the pre-authorization was released instantly upon check-out, unlike other hotels in North America where it can take up to two weeks.DariJPY 33,213
Great91 Ulasan
Financial District Toronto|0.46km dari pusat bandar
The location is super convenient, right in the city center. It's about a ten-minute walk to the lake, the train station, or the biggest shopping mall. The room is a decent size, a suite with a separate bedroom and living area, but it's a bit dated. Also, the bathroom doesn't have an exhaust fan.DariJPY 24,344
Very Good122 Ulasan
Toronto|13.08km dari pusat bandar
Everything was quiet and clean EXCEPT the bath and sink drains in the room were extremely slow. Standing in water above my ankles by the end of a shower. Things don't get this way overnight so I expect infrastructure maintenance isn't as timely as it should be.DariJPY 24,248
Very Good124 Ulasan
The Harbourfront Toronto|1.62km dari pusat bandar
A great hotel in a prime location. The Radisson Blu is situated right on the harbor. It is surrounded by iconic locations, great restaurants and attractions. The CN tower and Roger Center are just a few minutes walk. You can walk along the harbor boardwalk or sit in a nice cafe and watch planes take off and land at the small island airport just across the water.DariJPY 40,485
Very Good134 Ulasan
Entertainment District Toronto|1.13km dari pusat bandar
The location is fantastic, super convenient for sightseeing. I loved that I could always see the CN Tower from my room. Big thanks to the friendly staff at the front desk!DariJPY 16,785
Breakfast
Very Good79 Ulasan
Downtown Toronto Toronto|0.64km dari pusat bandar
Excellent location just steps from King subway station and a short walk to Union Station. Clean, spacious room with comfortable bed and an amazing view (from top floor tower room). Bathroom was a bit tight.DariJPY 28,111
Very Good58 Ulasan
Garden District Toronto|0.37km dari pusat bandar
The hotel is in the city center and the location is great. The front desk service was also excellent. The room was quite spacious. I stayed Friday night and checked out Saturday. Early Saturday morning, the fire alarm went off repeatedly. It scared me, and I wasn't sure what was happening, so I quickly grabbed my passport and wallet and went downstairs. Later, I found out it was just a drill. So early in the morning... I was really quite speechless.DariJPY 26,084
Great166 Ulasan
Downtown Toronto Toronto|0.17km dari pusat bandar
The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, which immediately made us feel at ease. During the Christmas period, the hotel even offered complimentary hot chocolate and churros, which was such a lovely festive touch and really added to the atmosphere.
The facilities were excellent. There is a 24-hour gym, which is very convenient, and the swimming pool stays open until 10pm or 11pm depending on the day. Towels are also provided at the pool, so you do not need to bring your own, which is always appreciated.
Overall, the staff were warm and attentive, and the hotel had a genuinely welcoming and festive atmosphere. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.DariJPY 40,271
42 Ulasan
Toronto|9.25km dari pusat bandar
I love this hotel. It's a great price, in a convenient location (to Uber around the city) and has great amenities. They have a bar on sight (it's simple but the menu is great). They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner there too, which you can get to-go and bring to your room. The outdoor and indoor pools are both very nice - especially the indoor pool. It's very unique and aesthetic. The hallways may be a little dated but again the price and the amenities far surpassed that detail. Some rooms even have balcony access to get some fresh air from your room which is really neat. This has been our go-to hotel when we head to the city to see a concert/show.DariJPY 17,286
Great104 Ulasan
The Harbourfront Toronto|1.45km dari pusat bandar
There was a constant noise coming from the toilet that prevented us from getting any rest. Even though a technician came, he couldn't fix it. However, everything else was fine. We had a good stay!DariJPY 42,679
Great108 Ulasan
Downtown Toronto Toronto|1.13km dari pusat bandar
Amazing cleanliness and accommodations when asked. Great location, views, and very close to everything. Only note is it would be great to have adult swim time secluded from the kids hours, given the pool size. As well, updated coffee machines in room. Overall great stay!DariJPY 44,873
Great58 Ulasan
Toronto|16.15km dari pusat bandar
The hotel provides shuttle service to the airport terminals which is very convenient, its easy to transfer the UP Express to downtown. The service is great too and provide complimentary breakfast. Nevertheless, the shower in the room is a bit old and the water pressure is quite low, and it is close to one of the plane routes for landing in YYZ, so you may hear the sound of airplane engine sometimes, but it still acceptable for me though.DariJPY 19,527
Amazing96 Ulasan
Toronto|2km dari pusat bandar
The hotel's location is excellent, right next to the luxury shopping street, and the area feels very safe. The room was spacious and comfortable, with a great view. It's also super close to the ROM, which is a shame because I visited last time and didn't have enough time for a second visit on this trip.DariJPY 33,118
🧳 Tips for a Smooth Arrival in Canada
📸 Screenshot your ArriveCAN receipt or QR code
🛬 Have your hotel address and eTA/visa info ready
📱 Use your phone or tablet — works great on mobile
✈️ Submit your info 1–3 days before your flight
💳 Don’t forget your eTA if entering Canada by air!
📶 BONUS: Stay Connected in Canada, Don’t forget to pre-purchase a Canada eSIM or travel SIM card so you can access maps, emails, and show your ArriveCAN code on the go!
🍁Explore Canada Now!
Canada is making travel smarter and more digital — and once you’ve sorted your ArriveCAN submission, you can focus on the exciting parts: finding the best halal food in Toronto, visiting Niagara Falls, or skiing in Whistler.
👉 Book your flight to Canada on Trip.com ✈️
👉 Reserve top-rated hotels in Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal 🏨
👉 Get your Canada eSIM to stay online from the moment you land 📱
Safe travels, and bon voyage! 🍁
🙋♂️ FAQs: Canada Arrival Card (Advance Declaration)
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📌 1. Is the Canada Arrival Card (CAD) mandatory?
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📌 2. Is CAD the same as a visa?
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📌 3. Who needs to submit the Advance Declaration?
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📌 4. How do I submit the Canada Advance Declaration?
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📌 5. When should I submit it?
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📌 6. What info is required?
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📌 7. Do I still need to fill out a paper form on the plane?
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📌 8. What happens after I submit the declaration?
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📌 9. Can I edit my submission if my flight changes?
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📌 10. Is ArriveCAN and the Advance Declaration free?
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📌 11. Which airports accept the Canada Advance Declaration?
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