Free Government Service Helps Canadians Stay In-the-Know When Travelling Abroad

The new Canadian passport is unveiled at an event at the Ottawa International Airport on May 10, 2023. Sean Kilpatrick/The Canadian Press

Staying informed when travelling outside Canada has been made a little bit easier thanks to a service designed specifically for Canadians abroad.

The Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) is a free government service that notifies Canadian citizens living or travelling outside the country of emergencies both abroad and at home. It is especially handy for those travelling in areas prone to natural disasters or civil unrest, the government said on its online information page.

“We encourage you to register whether you are planning a vacation or living abroad,” the government said.

ROCA has been used by Canadians abroad in several past emergencies, including during the initial outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The government said the service helped 62,580 Canadian citizens and permanent residents return home, while continuing to provide stranded Canadians with updates.

How to Register

Online registration is available here and can be done for a single person or a group of travellers.

Although those registering must provide personal details, such as date of birth and emergency contact information, all personal information obtained through registration is kept confidential, the government said.

Those planning to travel to more than one destination simply registers the details of their first destination country and then selects the option ‘I will be visiting other countries’ in the “Other Information” section.

Cruise-goers must select every port as a separate destination, including multiple ports in a single country. Simply enter the cruise ship name and add the name of the company in the ‘additional information’ field.

While Ottawa recommends use of its notification service, it noted that doing so does not guarantee travellers will receive consular assistance in a foreign country.

“The decision to travel is your responsibility,” the information page said. “You are also responsible for your personal safety abroad.”

Ottawa recommends all travellers purchase “the best travel insurance” they can afford as well as check travel advice and advisories for their destination while planning the trip and again before departure.

Knowing the location and contact information for the Canadian embassy or consulate closest to your travel destination is also recommended.