Travel & Visa Information for Halifax 2025
All international attendees traveling to Halifax for the TAICEP conference must ensure they have the correct travel documents to enter Canada. Depending on your citizenship, you will likely need either a Visitor Visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
1. Determine Your Entry Requirement
Entry requirements vary based on your country of citizenship and your method of travel.
U.S. Citizens: You generally only need a valid U.S. passport. No visa or eTA is required.
Visa-Exempt Countries (e.g., UK, Australia, many EU nations): If you are flying into Halifax, you must apply for an eTA ($7 CAD). This is usually approved within minutes but should be done before booking your flight.
Visa-Required Countries: You will need a Temporary Resident Visa (Visitor Visa). Processing times for these can range from a few weeks to several months. We recommend applying at least 12 weeks in advance.
Check your specific requirements: Use the official Government of Canada "Find out if you need a visa" tool.
2. Request a Letter of Invitation
If you need one, TAICEP can provide an official Letter of Invitation. This document confirms your intent to attend the conference as a business visitor.
How to request: TAICEP Invitation Letters
Note: You must be a registered and paid attendee to receive this letter.
3. Biometrics
Most visa applicants (excluding U.S. citizens) are required to provide fingerprints and a photo (biometrics) at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) before their application is processed. Check if this applies to you here.
4. Arriving in Halifax (YHZ)
When you arrive at Halifax Stanfield International Airport, you will clear Canadian customs.
Business Visitor Status: As a conference attendee, you are entering as a Business Visitor.
Documents to Carry: Keep a printed copy of your registration confirmation, your hotel booking, and your Letter of Invitation in your carry-on luggage to show the border officer if requested.
Quick Tips for Attendees
Check Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Canada.
Processing Times: Check current IRCC processing times to avoid travel delays.
Arrive Early: For international flights departing Halifax, the airport recommends arriving 3 hours before your flight.
Returning to the United States
Halifax Stanfield International Airport features a U.S. Preclearance facility. This allows you to clear U.S. Customs and Immigration in Halifax, so you can arrive at your U.S. destination as a domestic passenger and head straight to your next gate or baggage claim.
1. Essential Documents
U.S. Citizens: A valid U.S. Passport or NEXUS card.
U.S. Permanent Residents: Your Green Card and a valid passport from your country of citizenship.
International Attendees (Visa Waiver Program): Ensure your ESTA is still valid for your return or transit through the U.S.
Other International Attendees: A valid U.S. Entry Visa.
2. Crucial Timing: The "4:30 PM Rule"
The U.S. Preclearance facility in Halifax has set operating hours.
Daily Hours: 5:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Cut-off: You must be processed through U.S. Customs by 4:30 p.m., regardless of your flight's actual departure time.
Delayed Flights: If your evening flight is delayed, the Customs officers will still close the facility at 5:00 p.m. If you are not cleared by then, you may not be able to board.
3. Arrival at the Airport
Recommended Arrival: Arrive at the airport 3 hours before your flight.
Check-in Location: Check-in for U.S.-bound flights is located on the 2nd floor of the terminal (above the Arrivals area).
The Process: You will first check your bags, then pass through security screening, and immediately enter the U.S. Customs hall. Once cleared, you will enter a "sterile" U.S. departures lounge with its own shops and food options.
4. Expedited Entry
Mobile Passport Control (MPC): We highly recommend downloading the MPC App (authorized by U.S. CBP). It allows you to submit your travel information digitally and often gives you access to a shorter, dedicated line in the Halifax Customs hall.
NEXUS / Global Entry: Dedicated lanes are typically available for members of these trusted traveler programs.
Returning to Other International Destinations (Non-U.S. Travelers)
If you are flying from Halifax to an international destination (e.g., London, Frankfurt, or via a connection in Toronto/Montreal), please follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth departure.
1. Check-In & Airport Arrival
Location: Check-in for all non-U.S. international flights is located on the Main Level of the terminal.
Timing: Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure. While Halifax is an efficient airport, international document verification can take extra time.
Online Check-In: Most airlines (Air Canada, WestJet, Condor, etc.) allow online check-in 24 hours in advance. We highly recommend this to secure your seat and speed up baggage drop-off.
2. Transit Visas (For Layovers)
If your flight home has a layover, check the transit requirements for that country:
Connecting through the U.S.: Even if you are only in a U.S. airport for two hours, you must have a valid U.S. Transit Visa or ESTA. You will also need to follow the "U.S. Preclearance" procedures in Halifax mentioned above.
Connecting through Canada (e.g., Toronto YYZ or Montreal YUL): If you are on a single ticket, your bags will usually be checked through to your final destination. Ensure your Canadian eTA or Visa remains valid for your departure date.
3. Taxes and Refunds
Sales Tax (GST/HST): Please note that Canada does not currently offer a general sales tax refund program for international tourists on retail purchases (clothing, electronics, etc.).
Duty-Free: You can purchase duty-free goods at the airport after you pass through security. Be mindful of the "liquids" rules if you have a connecting flight later in your journey.
4. Security Screening
International security screening is located on the Main Level.
Verified Traveller: If you have a NEXUS card, you may use the "Verified Traveller" lanes during peak hours for an expedited security experience.