Everything international visitors need before arriving in Toronto — eSIM data, travel insurance, currency, tipping, transit cards, safety tips, weather packing guide, power adapters, and practical city advice.
Citizens of the US, EU, UK, Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa. However, most non-US citizens need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) to fly into Canada. It costs $7 CAD and takes minutes to obtain at canada.ca. Check the official site for your specific country.
Buy an international eSIM for data on arrival, travel insurance (Canadian healthcare doesn't cover visitors), and confirm your eTA if required. Once in Toronto, your first stop should be a PRESTO card at any TTC subway station for transit.
Canadian dollars (CAD). Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere. American Express is accepted at most restaurants but not universally. ATMs are plentiful. You rarely need cash in Toronto.
Strongly recommended for all non-Canadian visitors. Canada's public healthcare system does not cover tourists. A simple emergency room visit or ambulance ride can result in very large bills. Travel insurance is inexpensive relative to the potential cost.
Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad offer reliable Canada eSIMs. Buy and activate before you travel so you have data as soon as you land at Pearson airport. Most modern smartphones (iPhone XS and newer, most Android flagships) support eSIM.
Yes — tipping is standard in Toronto. 15–18% is the minimum at restaurants; 20% is common for good service. Tip $1–2 per drink at bars, and 10–15% for taxis and rideshares. Many restaurant terminals now start gratuity prompts at 18–20%.
Canada uses the same Type A and Type B plugs as the United States — the two-prong flat-blade and three-prong grounded varieties. Voltage is 110V/60Hz. Visitors from the UK (Type G), Europe (Type C/E/F), or Australia (Type I) need an adapter. Most modern chargers and laptops are dual-voltage (100–240V) and only need an adapter, not a converter.
Emergency (police, fire, ambulance): 911. Non-emergency police: 416-808-2222. Toronto Public Health: 416-338-7600. Distress Centre Toronto (mental health crisis): 416-408-4357. If in doubt, call 911 — dispatchers will route you to the right service.
WTF Toronto creates guides using independent editorial research, official sources, local knowledge and firsthand experience where available. Commercial relationships are disclosed where applicable.