Transport Canada
Canada
Permit path requiredForeign 250 g+ pilots need a Canadian certificate and SFOC-RPAS
Canada is excellent for prepared pilots, but foreign pilots flying a drone of 250 g or more need a Canadian drone pilot certificate and, in most cases, a Foreign SFOC-RPAS.
The trip, step by step
- Bring it
- No blanket tourist ban for small drones, but the foreign-pilot paperwork can be the trip blocker.
- Register it
- Foreign pilots cannot register drones in Canada. For drones of 250 g or more, the Foreign SFOC-RPAS satisfies the registration requirement.
- Fly it
- Foreign pilots flying a drone of 250 g or more need a Canadian drone pilot certificate, even if they are authorized at home. Most also need a Foreign SFOC-RPAS, which is simpler for non-commercial flights. Drones under 250 g need neither, except at advertised events.
- Map check
- Use the NRC drone site selection tool and NAV Drone for controlled airspace planning.
Before you travel
- 01If the drone is under 250 g, still avoid events, controlled/restricted airspace, and unsafe operations.
- 02For 250 g+ drones, earn a Canadian drone pilot certificate and apply for a Foreign SFOC-RPAS before travel.
- 03Use NAV Drone or the NRC site tool for airspace and controlled-zone planning.
Operating notes
- Max altitude
- 122 m / 400 ft AGL for basic operations unless authorized.
- Commercial work
- Paid, client, or sponsored travel work can require SFOC/RPOC-style authorization when flown by foreign pilots or outside normal operating rules.