Arriving in Canada
WELCOME TO CALGARY!
Entering Canada and the border
When you arrive at an airport in Canada, you can expect to answer some questions from a Canadian border services officer. Answer calmly and truthfully. Perior to traveling to Canada, prepare for arrival and review the documents you will need to travel with.
Tips:
- Make sure your documents are with you in your carry-on luggage when you travel, not in your checked luggage.
- Your study permit (and co-op work permit, if applicable) will be printed upon entry – take a moment to review that the information on it, such as name and dates, are correct.
- Conditions of your study permit (and co-op work permit, if applicable) will be printed on your documents, if there are none at all, please confirm with the CBSA officer before leaving the airport.
Transportation from the Calgary International Airport
There are several transportation options available from the Calgary International Airport into the city. Public transportation is the least expensive option, while a taxi or TNC operator is generally faster and will take you directly to your destination.
Public transportation
Calgary Transit provides public bus transportation to and from Calgary International Airport (YYC). Route 300 connects from the airport terminal to downtown, and Route 100 connects from the airport terminal to McKnight- Westwinds LRT Station (LRT Blue Line).
Purchase a ticket
- You will need to purchase a boarding pass (ticket) in the terminal before you can board a bus.
- Ticket vending machines are located at Door 15, Pillar 32 and Door 1, Pillar 7.
- Debit, credit and coin payment are accepted.
- The fare costs $11.25 and includes all-day access to all Calgary Transit buses and CTrains.
Boarding the bus
From the domestic terminal – board at Bus Bay 7 or 8 (located across the roadway on the arrivals level). From the international terminal – board at Bus Bay 32 (located on the outer curb on the arrivals level).
Taxi service
On-demand, round the clock taxi service is available at Calgary International Airport. Fares are based on meter rates. Under normal driving conditions, the approximate fare from the airport to downtown is approximately $40 – $50. Depending how far you are travelling, your fare may be more or less expensive. Taxis can typically accommodate four or five adult passengers, but vans are available to assist if you are travelling with additional passengers or excess luggage.
From the domestic terminal: Taxi stands are located on the arrivals level outside of doors 1 and 6.
From the international terminal: Taxi stands are located on the arrivals level outside of doors 16 and 17.
Transportation Network Company (TNC)
TNCs provide affordable transportation by connecting passengers with drivers exclusively through a website or mobile app. To request TNC services, you will need to use the providers’ mobile app or website. After arranging your ride on the app, you can meet your TNC driver at one of the designated zones – located on the arrivals level outside Door 1 or Door 12.
Authorized TNC operators at the Calgary International Airport currently include Cowboy Taxi, TappCar and UBER.
Pre-arrival
Prepare for arrival in Canada, at the Calgary airport and make sure to pack your immigration documents in your carry-on luggage. Review the Canadian Border Services Agency website to plan your trip across the border.
When you arrive
- If you will be arriving in the winter, make sure you pack a warm jacket – the weather will more than likely be cold!
- Have the address handy for your first night’s accommodation.
- If you will arrive at nighttime, you might want to have some snacks with you for your first night, as stores and restaurants in your neighborhood may be closed.
- Once you arrive at your destination, remember to check in with friends or family back home so they know that you have arrived safely.
Applying for Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)
If you are a student studying in Alberta with a valid study permit apply for AHCIP immediately upon your arrival.
Please see this following document (PDF) for all the details.
