How to Visit and Stay in Canada as an American Citizen (2025 Guide)

How Can American Citizens Visit and Stay in Canada? Your Full 2025 Guide

If you’re an American RVer or digital nomad dreaming of spending summer in Canada, you’re not alone. With rising temperatures in the southern U.S., many travelers are looking north for cooler weather, scenic beauty, and a more affordable extended stay. But how exactly does it work when Americans want to visit Canada for an extended period?

This guide breaks down the rules, policies, and best practices for Americans visiting Canada—from border crossing to healthcare, travel limits, and how to stay the full six months legally.

1. Visa and Entry Rules for U.S. Citizens

American citizens do not need a visa to enter Canada for tourism, which includes camping and RV travel. You can stay in Canada for up to six months (180 days) at a time as a visitor.

What you need to enter:

  • A valid U.S. passport

  • Proof of intent to return to the U.S. (e.g., return ticket, U.S. residence, etc.)

  • Sufficient financial resources to support your stay

  • No criminal record or immigration flags that would make you inadmissible

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, immigration, tax, or travel advice. Policies may change, and entry decisions are made at the discretion of border agents. Always consult official government resources or qualified professionals before making travel decisions or interpreting regulations.

Border agents can ask about your travel plans, funds, or proof of residence. Be polite, clear, and truthful.

2. How Long Can You Stay in Canada?

American visitors are allowed to stay up to 180 days (about six months) in any 12-month period. This is not a rolling six months; it is cumulative.

Best practices:

  • Track your days using an app or calendar

  • Avoid staying exactly 180 days—leave a buffer in case of questions

  • Upon re-entry, officials may assess whether you’re "living" in Canada vs. visiting

Many Americans spend May to October in Canada and winter in the U.S., creating a legal and balanced travel cycle.

3. Healthcare for Americans in Canada

Canada does not provide free healthcare to tourists. Americans should purchase travel health insurance that covers:

  • Emergency medical care

  • Hospitalization

  • Medical evacuation (back to the U.S.)

  • Trip cancellation/interruption (optional)

Top providers for RVers and long-term travelers include:

  • SafetyWing

  • IMG Global

  • Seven Corners

Northern Stay strongly recommends coverage for the full duration of your stay.

4. Crossing the Border with an RV

When traveling to Canada with your RV, be sure to:

  • Have your vehicle registration and insurance ready

  • Declare all food, alcohol, pets, and firearms

  • Carry a pet vaccination certificate (if applicable)

  • Avoid bringing produce, meat, or restricted goods

Fuel up, cross early in the day, and always check the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) website for up-to-date regulations.

5. Cell Service, Currency, and Internet

  • Consider an international roaming plan or a Canadian SIM card for reliable mobile data

  • Most U.S. credit cards work in Canada—just notify your bank in advance

  • ATMs are widely available, and the Canadian dollar (CAD) offers excellent value for U.S. travelers

  • Starlink and mobile hotspots work well in rural areas (great for digital nomads)

6. Where to Stay: Seasonal Membership Options

If you're planning a 3-6 month stay, campground bookings can get expensive and complicated. That’s why seasonal RV memberships like Northern Stay are a smart solution:

  • Unlimited camping across Canada from May to October

  • No nightly fees

  • Curated partner parks in beautiful, remote regions

  • No need to bounce from site to site—stay up to 21 nights per park

  • Easy booking via our Member Portal

It’s the kind of long-term RV membership Americans have enjoyed for years—now finally built for Canada and designed for travelers who stay the season, not just the weekend.

7. Can You Work in Canada as a Visitor?

No. U.S. citizens cannot legally work in Canada while on a tourist visa. However, remote work for a U.S-based company is allowed and common among digital nomads.

You may:

  • Take work calls

  • Run your U.S-based business

  • Freelance for U.S. clients

But you may not accept employment from a Canadian company or advertise services to Canadian residents.

8. Taxes, Residency, and Vehicle Limits

You are not considered a tax resident of Canada unless you establish significant residential ties (e.g., lease, job, dependents). If you're simply visiting and maintaining U.S. residency, your tax and vehicle registration obligations remain in the U.S.

You may drive your U.S.-plated RV in Canada as long as:

  • It is legally registered in your name

  • You do not leave it in Canada after your departure

Final Tips for an Amazing Stay in Canada

  • Don’t overstay—track your days

  • Keep all entry/exit documentation

  • Use campground memberships to simplify your journey

  • Carry proper insurance and maintain U.S. residency links

  • Embrace slower travel and enjoy the northern beauty

Need help planning your extended stay in Canada?
Contact Erin at Erin@thenorthernstay.com to learn more about our seasonal RV membership options for American citizens.

Let Canada be your summer home—safely, legally, and affordably.

Disclaimer: 
This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, immigration, tax, or travel advice. Policies may change, and entry decisions are made at the discretion of border agents. Always consult official government resources or qualified professionals before making travel decisions or interpreting regulations.