Canada
Region
🌍 Americas
Population
👥 41
Currency
💱 Canadian dollar
Languages
🗣️ English, French
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Canada, a vast and diverse nation, beckons with its breathtaking natural wonders, from the snow-capped peaks of the Rockies to the stunning coastlines of the Maritimes. Immerse yourself in multicultural cities, friendly locals, and a wealth of outdoor adventures.
Official NameSource: REST Countries
Canada
Continent
America
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Canadian
Independence
Canada's independence evolved gradually; it's often considered to have occurred with the Statute of Westminster in 1931.
Top-Level Domain
.ca
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+1
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC-08:00, UTC-07:00, UTC-06:00, UTC-05:00, UTC-04:00, UTC-03:30
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
Ottawa
ISO Alpha-2
CA
ISO Alpha-3
CAN
UN Code
124
Geographic Coordinates
60,-95
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
9,984,670#3 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
41,798,407#37 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
4.56
Highest Point (m)
5,959
Lowest Point (m)
0
Land Use
4.8% arable land, 0.5% permanent crops, 53.6% other.
Irrigated Land
13,630 sq km (2012)
Coastline Length
202,080 km
Climate
Varies significantly, from arctic in the north to temperate in the south.
Natural Resources
Petroleum, natural gas, coal, uranium, gold, nickel, zinc, copper, iron ore, potash, diamonds, and timber.
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
United States
Major Rivers
St. Lawrence River, Mackenzie River, Yukon River, Fraser River
Major Lakes
Great Bear Lake, Great Slave Lake, Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, Lake Ontario
Government Type
Parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy
Administrative Divisions
10 provinces and 3 territories
Legal System
Common law (except in Quebec, where civil law based on the French civil code prevails)
Chief of State
King Charles III (represented by the Governor General)
Head of Government
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
Cabinet
Cabinet is appointed by the Prime Minister.
Elections
Elections are typically held every four years, or sooner if the government loses the confidence of the House of Commons.
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court of Canada
Legislative Branch
Bicameral Parliament (Senate and House of Commons)
Major Political Parties
Liberal Party, Conservative Party, New Democratic Party, Bloc Québécois, Green Party
CurrencySource: REST Countries
Canadian dollar
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
2,319.9#10 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
2,780.07#16 of 201
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
55,697.66#29 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2022)Checked September 29, 2026
1.93
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2022)Checked September 29, 2026
27.35
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2022)Checked September 29, 2026
64.11
Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
2.07#129 of 191
Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
22,846,475
Unemployment Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Unemployment, total (% of total labor force) (modeled ILO estimate) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
6.91#62 of 185
Public Debt (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Central government debt, total (% of GDP) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
64.13
Budget
Canada's federal budget is published annually and available from the government.
Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
726.88#15 of 192
Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
746.5#13 of 192
Foreign Reserves
Canada maintains significant foreign exchange reserves.
Currency Exchange
Exchange rates can be found at major financial websites and banks.
GDP by Sector
Services (70%), Manufacturing (10%), Real Estate (10%), Other (10%).
Major Industries
Manufacturing, natural resources, services, and technology.
Major Export Partners
United States, China, United Kingdom, Japan, and Germany.
Major Import Partners
United States, China, Mexico, Germany, and Japan.
Society
Literacy Rate (%)
Approximately 99%.
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
8.9
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
7.9
Net Migration Rate
Approximately 6 migrants per 1,000 population.
Median Age
Approximately 41 years.
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
82.88#51 of 214
Urbanization Rate
Urbanization is ongoing, but relatively slow.
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
82.1#34 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
HIV/AIDS prevalence is relatively low.
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
11.31
Ethnic Groups
Canadian, British, French, Chinese, South Asian, Indigenous, and other groups.
Religions
Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism, Buddhism, and others.
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
English, French
Education
Education System
Publicly funded education system with provincial/territorial jurisdiction, encompassing primary, secondary, and post-secondary levels.
School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2018)Checked September 29, 2026
16.2
Government Education Spending
Generally spends a significant portion of its GDP on education, varying by province/territory.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia, University of Waterloo.
Culture
Cultural Overview
Multicultural nation with influences from Indigenous peoples, European settlers, and diverse immigrant communities; bilingual in English and French.
National HolidaysSource: Nager.Date
- New Year's Day (2026-01-01)
- Louis Riel Day (2026-02-16)
- Islander Day (2026-02-16)
- Heritage Day (2026-02-16)
- Family Day (2026-02-16)
- Saint Patrick's Day (2026-03-17)
- Good Friday (2026-04-03)
- Easter Monday (2026-04-06)
- Saint George's Day (2026-04-23)
- National Patriots' Day (2026-05-18)
- Victoria Day (2026-05-18)
- National Aboriginal Day (2026-06-21)
Popular Music
Diverse genres, including pop, rock, hip hop, country, and Indigenous music; artists like Drake, Justin Bieber, The Weeknd.
Traditional Food
Poutine, butter tarts, Nanaimo bars, maple syrup.
Sports
Ice hockey (national sport), lacrosse, Canadian football, curling, skiing.
Major Festivals
Toronto International Film Festival, Montreal International Jazz Festival, Calgary Stampede.
Famous People
Ryan Reynolds, Michael J. Fox, Shania Twain, Justin Bieber, Wayne Gretzky, Neil Young.
Cultural Heritage Sites
Many National Historic Sites.
UNESCO Sites
Multiple sites, including the Rideau Canal, Old Town Lunenburg, and Gros Morne National Park.
Annual Tourist Visits
around 25 million/year
Tourism Overview
Canada offers diverse experiences, from vibrant city life to vast wilderness. Typical trips include urban exploration in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, road trips along scenic routes such as the Icefields Parkway, or adventurous expeditions into its numerous national parks. Key highlights include the majestic Rocky Mountains, the historic charm of Quebec City, and the wildlife-rich coastlines. It suits a wide range of travelers, including nature enthusiasts, families seeking outdoor activities, urban explorers, and those looking for a safe and welcoming destination. Canada's sheer size means distinct regional attractions, from the maritime provinces to the Pacific coast.
Top Tourist Attractions
Experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Niagara Falls, the majestic Rocky Mountains, and the historic charm of Old Quebec. Explore vibrant national parks and picturesque coastlines.
Famous Cities
Discover vibrant metropolises like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, each offering unique cultural experiences, world-class dining, and bustling urban landscapes.
National Parks
- Banff National Park: Famous for its turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife.
- Jasper National Park: The largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, offering stunning vistas and outdoor recreation.
- Pacific Rim National Park Reserve: Features rugged coastlines, ancient rainforests, and surfing opportunities.
- Gros Morne National Park: Known for its unique geological landscapes, including fjords and exposed earth's mantle.
- Nahanni National Park Reserve: A remote wilderness area renowned for its dramatic canyons and waterfalls.
- Cape Breton Highlands National Park: Offers spectacular ocean views along the Cabot Trail.
- Yoho National Park: Adjacent to Banff, boasting impressive waterfalls and the Burgess Shale fossil beds.
- Waterton Lakes National Park: Where the prairies meet the mountains, with beautiful lakes and hiking trails.
Protected Areas
—
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Canada depends largely on your desired activities. Summer (June to August) offers warm weather ideal for exploring cities, hiking in the Rockies, and enjoying beaches along the coasts. Spring (April to May) and Fall (September to October) are excellent for city breaks and viewing autumn foliage, with fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures. Winter (December to March) is perfect for skiing and snowboarding in mountain resorts, enjoying winter festivals, and experiencing the magic of a snowy landscape. For wildlife viewing, the shoulder seasons can also be rewarding.
Tourist Visa Info
For many nationalities, a valid passport is sufficient for stays up to six months. However, if you are from a country that requires a visa, you must apply for one before you travel. An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying into Canada. Always confirm your entry requirements with official Canadian government sources, as rules can change. Be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds and intent to depart Canada at the end of your visit.
Visa Requirements Overview
Tourist visa requirements for Canada vary significantly based on your country of citizenship. Many visitors from Europe, the United States, and Australia do not require a visa for short stays, typically for tourism or business. However, citizens of many other countries will need to apply for a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) prior to arrival. It is essential to check the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website well in advance of your travel dates to determine the specific requirements for your nationality. Overstaying your permitted duration can have serious consequences for future travel.
Travel Advisory
Canada is a welcoming destination with generally safe travel conditions. Standard travel precautions are recommended, such as being aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar urban areas. Weather can be extreme and unpredictable, particularly during winter and in remote regions, so pack accordingly and check forecasts. It is advisable to have travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical needs or trip disruptions. Respect local laws and customs to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Healthcare
Healthcare Quality
Canada's healthcare system generally scores well in international comparisons.
Medical Cost
Medical costs are covered by the public healthcare system for residents.
Number of Hospitals
Canada has a network of hospitals across the country.
Universal Healthcare
Universal healthcare, publicly funded through taxes, provides access to medically necessary services.
Medical Services Overview
Canada has a universal healthcare system providing access to medical services.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency medical services are available throughout Canada.
Emergency & Safety
Emergency Number (Police)
911
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
911
Emergency Number (Fire)
911
Crime Rate
—
Safety Index
—
Military Expenditure
—
Emergency Services Overview
Emergency services in Canada are well-established and accessible. In case of a serious emergency requiring police, medical, or fire assistance, dialing the national emergency number will connect you to the appropriate services. It's crucial to provide your exact location and a clear description of the situation. Paramedics and hospitals are equipped to handle medical emergencies. Local police departments are responsible for law enforcement and responding to public safety concerns. Familiarize yourself with the emergency number before your trip.
Safety Overview
Canada is a very safe country for tourists, with low crime rates in most areas. However, like any major destination, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy urban areas or at night. Common sense precautions like not leaving valuables unattended and being mindful of personal belongings on public transit apply. Petty theft can occur in crowded tourist spots. While rare, be aware of potential scams targeting tourists, often involving fake charity collectors or over-priced goods. Stick to well-lit and populated areas when exploring at night.
Military Branches
—
Infrastructure
Electricity Access
—
Water Access
—
Sanitation Access
—
Railways
Extensive railway network, including passenger and freight services, like Via Rail.
Roadways
Canada's road network is generally well-maintained, especially the Trans-Canada Highway, which spans the country. Driving is an excellent way to explore the vast landscapes, particularly for scenic routes. Speed limits are posted and enforced, and drivers must be aware of changing weather conditions, which can impact road safety, especially in winter. Tolls are present on some highways and bridges, particularly around major urban centers, though many are not tolled. Self-driving is a very good idea for exploring national parks and less populated regions, offering the most flexibility.
Transportation System
Well-developed transportation infrastructure, including roads, railways, and air travel.
AirportsSource: OurAirports
Calgary International Airport (YYC), Edmonton International Airport (YEG), Halifax / Stanfield International Airport (YHZ), John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (YHM), Kelowna International Airport (YLW), Montreal / Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
Ports
—
Public Transit
Major Canadian cities boast comprehensive public transit systems, primarily consisting of buses, and in larger centers like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, subway (metro) and light rail (tram) networks. Ticketing often involves single-ride fares, daily passes, or reloadable smart cards that offer better value for frequent use. Tourists can usually purchase these passes at transit stations, convenience stores, or through mobile apps. It's advisable to check the specific transit authority's website for the city you are visiting to understand route maps, schedules, and fare options. Using public transit is an efficient and cost-effective way to navigate urban areas and experience local life.
Technology & Communication
Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
94.35#36 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
—
Tech Startups
—
Innovation Index
—
ICT Development Index
—
TV Broadcast Stations
—
Radio Broadcast Stations
—
Plug Type & Voltage
Type A and B, 120V, 60Hz
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
14.01#13 of 202
Air Quality Index
Generally good, but can be affected by wildfires during summer months.
Water Pollution Level
Tap water in most Canadian cities is safe to drink. Surface water in remote wilderness areas should be treated.
Renewable Energy Usage
—
Environmental Issues
—
Natural Hazards
Canada can experience various natural hazards. Wildfires are a concern, particularly during dry summer months in forested regions, which can sometimes affect air quality. Earthquakes are more common in British Columbia. Severe winter storms, including blizzards and ice storms, can impact travel and daily life, especially in Eastern and Central Canada. Coastal areas may be susceptible to flooding, and depending on the region, avalanches are a risk in mountainous terrain during winter. Travelers should stay informed about local conditions.
Waste Management
Canada has strong recycling programs, especially in urban areas. Travelers will notice distinct bins for recyclable materials (paper, plastic, glass, metal) and general waste. It's common to find these systems in public spaces, hotels, and restaurants. Some regions also have composting initiatives. Being mindful of sorting your waste correctly contributes to local sustainability efforts. Smaller towns might have simpler systems, but general awareness of waste reduction is high.
Environmental Agreements
—
UN MembershipSource: REST Countries
Yes
Diplomatic Missions
—
International OrganizationsSource: REST Countries
NATO, G7, G20, Commonwealth, OECD
Major Treaties
—
Visa-Free Countries
—