Canada Country Report

Canada, a North American member of the Commonwealth, ranks among the most developed economies in the world. The country is known for its vast natural resources and relatively low crime rates. The biggest threat for those visiting Canada will often stem from inclement weather, as the winter months between December and March can be extremely harsh. There is also a risk of opportunistic crime in the major cities.

There is no notable conflict threat to Canada, although it has at times been involved in conflicts abroad. Crime levels in Canada compare favorably against those of the United States and even against Western European averages. Both transnational and domestic terrorism are minor yet real concerns for the country and are likely to persist for the foreseeable future. Protests occur occasionally in major cities and near natural resource exploitation sites, but are nearly always non-violent.

Air travel is considered safe for travel to and from Canada.

The Canadian road network in the southern provinces is vast and comprehensive but becomes sparse further north.

Canadian ports are reliable and efficient.

Basic services such as water, electricity and fuel availability are reliable in Canada.

The country is vulnerable to cyber attacks, and financial institutions, government and large private sector corporations have all been targeted.

Canada's climate is known for frigid winter temperatures. Because of the country's relatively strict environmental codes and enforcement, pollution is not generally a problem. Canada's West Coast lies along an active seismic zone, and mild-to-moderate quakes are sometimes felt. The eastern regions also experience mild earthquakes. Storm systems are an annual issue for the country, generally in terms of blizzards and some tropical systems. The hurricane season typically impacts the country June-November, with activity peaking by September. During the summer, dangerous wildfires can occur across most of the country, with British Columbia Province and the Boreal forest areas of the Canadian Prairies Region, Ontario and Quebec provinces, Northwest Territories, and Yukon Territory typically the worst impacted.

Canada has several disease and health threats; however, each is actively managed by health authorities. Healthcare services are accessible and efficient, however, these services are limited in rural areas. All major medications can be obtained in some form in Canada. Tap water is considered safe for drinking unless otherwise specified.

Corruption in Canada is considered to be extremely low, as anti-corruption measures and enforcement are strong. Rule of law is also considered strong. Canada’s system of governance is extremely stable.