Transport Canada
Canada
Permit path requiredForeign 250 g+ pilots usually need SFOC-RPAS
Canada is excellent for prepared pilots, but foreign-owned drones 250 g and up usually need the foreign-pilot SFOC-RPAS path rather than the normal Canadian registration flow.
Bring it
No blanket tourist ban for small drones, but the foreign-pilot paperwork can be the trip blocker.
Register it
Canadian registration applies to eligible Canadian aircraft. Foreign pilots should start with Transport Canada's foreign pilot permission page.
Fly it
Under 250 g has the lightest paperwork path. From 250 g to 25 kg, Canadian pilots use Basic/Advanced certificates, while foreign pilots should check SFOC-RPAS requirements.
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+ foreign-owned drones, start the SFOC-RPAS process 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.
- Recreational
- Under 250 g has the lightest paperwork path. From 250 g to 25 kg, Canadian pilots use Basic/Advanced certificates, while foreign pilots should check SFOC-RPAS requirements.
- Commercial work
- Paid, client, or sponsored travel work can require SFOC/RPOC-style authorization when flown by foreign pilots or outside normal operating rules.
- Airspace
- Use the NRC drone site selection tool and NAV Drone for controlled airspace planning.