Is ArriveCAN mandatory? How to fill out the declaration

ArriveCAN is not mandatory in 2026. In the app or on the website you can submit the Advance Declaration up to 72 hours before flying into a participating airport, and you still confirm it at the kiosk on arrival.

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What is ArriveCAN and why should you use it?

O ArriveCan is an official digital platform of the Canadian government, available both as an app and as a website, that allows travelers to submit their travel information in advance. In 2026, although it is no longer mandatory as it was during the pandemic, completing the ArriveCan remains a recommended practice for everyone traveling to Canada.

By using this tool, you can significantly streamline your entry process into the country, reducing the waiting time for immigration and avoiding the manual filling of forms upon arrival. For students who plan study and work in Canada, this prior preparation makes arriving less stressful after a long international flight.

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How to access ArriveCAN

In 2026, the Canadian government maintains multiple options for accessing ArriveCan, ensuring flexibility for different preferences and devices. You can choose the method that best suits your needs:

• Web version: Access directly through the browser, ideal for those who prefer larger screens or do not want to install the application. The official website allows you to complete the entire process in a simple and intuitive way.
• iOS app: Available on the App Store for all Apple devices. The mobile version is optimized for use on smartphones and tablets, allowing you to fill in information even without access to a computer.
• Android app: Easily found in the Google Play Store, offering the same functionality as the iOS version, but for Android devices.
• Offline version: Most of the information can be filled out even without an internet connection, as long as you finalize the shipment when you are online before boarding.

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Detailed step by step to fill out the ArriveCan

Let's now go to the complete ArriveCAN filling out guide, divided into clear steps to make your process easier:

Step 1: Create an account and sign in

The first step is to create your account in the ArriveCAN system:

• Go to the app or site and click “Create Account”
• Accept the presented terms of use
• Fill in your personal email and create a secure password
• Remember: the password must contain at least 8 characters, include uppercase and lowercase letters, at least one number and a special symbol
• Confirm your account through the verification email that will be sent
• Sign in with your newly created credentials

Step 2: Add travelers and passport information

After successful login, you need to add your personal and document information:

• Click “Add Traveller” to get started
• You can choose to scan your passport using the device's camera or enter the data manually
• Carefully fill in all the requested information, exactly as it appears on your passport
• Check that your name, date of birth, and passport number are correct before proceeding
• If you're traveling in a group, you can add other travelers to the same statement

Step 3: Complete the CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency) form

This is the most detailed part of the process, where you will provide information about your trip and stay in Canada:

1. Airport and arrival date: Select the Canadian airport where you will be disembarking and the exact date of your arrival
2. Traveler selection: Confirm your previously entered passport details
3. Contact Information: Enter your phone number with country code
4. Country of origin: Tell us what country you are coming to Canada from (Brazil)
5. Country of residence: Indicate where you currently live by selecting “Other” and then “Brazil”
6. Purpose of the trip: Specify the reason for your visit to Canada by selecting “Study” for student exchange or “Work” for work programs
7. Length of stay: Tell us how many days you plan to stay in Canada, according to your visa and program
8. Visitor permissions: Answer if you exceed the standard visitor permissions
9. Firearms and other weapons: Indicate if you are bringing any type of weapon
10. Commercial Merchandise: State whether you bring products for sale or resale
11. Food, plant and animal products: Tell us if you are bringing meat, fish, seafood, eggs, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, seeds, plants, or derived products
12. Money over 10,000 CAD: Declare if you are bringing money or property valued at more than 10,000 Canadian dollars
13. Unaccompanied goods: Indicate if you have goods that will arrive separately
14. Visit to farms: Answer if you visited a farm recently or are planning to visit one in Canada
15. Cannabis and related products: Declare if you are bringing cannabis or products containing cannabis

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How to check and submit your statement on ArriveCan

After completing all the fields on the CBSA form, you will reach the final step of the process:

• Carefully review all information provided before submitting
• Make sure there are no typos in critical data such as name, passport number, and dates
• Click “Send Declaration” to submit your information
• You will receive an on-screen confirmation and a receipt (Declaration Receipt) with a QR code
• Save the receipt to your device or take a screenshot for easy access
• It is also recommended to print a physical copy of the receipt in case of problems with your device.

This receipt will be requested by the immigration officer when you arrive in Canada, so it's essential to keep it accessible during your trip.

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Deadline for filling out and tips to avoid problems

To ensure a smooth arrival, observe these important recommendations about completing the ArriveCan:

• Submit the Advance Declaration up to 72 hours before the flight. If you do not confirm it at a kiosk within those 72 hours, it expires
• Avoid leaving it until the last minute, as connection or system problems may occur
• Check that all the details are exactly as they appear on your passport and visa documents
• If you have problems with the app, try accessing the web version of ArriveCan
• If you're traveling as a family or group, one person can fill in for everyone, as long as they have all the necessary information
• Keep your information up to date if there are changes to your flight or itinerary

Travelers who participate in programs such as Learn a language abroad they often have additional documents that must be mentioned during the process or presented in person at immigration, such as acceptance letters from educational institutions.

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Frequently asked questions about ArriveCAN

To clarify the most common questions, we've put together the key questions about using ArriveCAN in 2026:

• Is ArriveCAN mandatory in 2026? No, filling out is optional, but highly recommended to expedite the Canadian entry process.
• Do I need an internet connection to use ArriveCAN? You need internet to create your account and submit the final declaration, but you can fill out most of the information offline.
• What happens if I don't fill out the ArriveCan? You'll have to complete all forms manually upon arrival in Canada, which can lead to significantly longer immigration time.
• Can I change my information after submission? Yes, you can update your information up to the time of shipment, if necessary.
• How long is the ArriveCan receipt valid for? The receipt is only valid for the specific trip it was generated for. Each new entry into Canada requires a new filing.

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You know ArriveCAN is optional. What about college in Canada?

The declaration only organises arrival. The study project sits in public college in Canada and learning a language abroad.

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Be Easy: boutique exchange consultancy

Be Easy is a boutique exchange consultancy. A senior consultant organises visa, college and arrival, without treating ArriveCAN as mandatory. Contact us for specialised senior consultancy.