Registration of Canadians Abroad

Q: What is the Registration of Canadians Abroad?

A: The Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) is a registration service provided by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada for Canadians travelling or residing abroad for an extended period of time. This service is provided in the event there is a need to contact Canadians to offer urgent advice during a natural disaster or civil unrest, or to inform them of a family emergency at home. Registration
is voluntary, and personal information provided on the registration form is used in accordance with the provisions of the Privacy Act.

Q: Who should register?

A: Canadians are encouraged to register if:

they are going to be abroad for three months or more or

they will be spending any time in a country, or a specific area within a country, that is covered by an official Travel Warning

they will be visiting a country for less than three months that has security concerns and/or does not have a resident Canadian government office. See the Travel Reports for country-specific recommendations.

Canadians making short-term visits abroad are strongly advised to:

leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada

provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada

keep on-hand phone numbers for the Canadian government offices in the countries they plan to visit

Q: Why should I register?

A: Registration helps Canadian government offices abroad communicate with you in an emergency, such as a family emergency at home, natural disaster or civil disturbance or hostilities, in order to ascertain your well‑being and provide consular assistance as required.

Q: How do I register?

A: Registration can be done on-line. If you are unable to register on-line, contact the responsible Canadian government office to request a registration form. Please complete all required fields.

Q: When should I register?

A: It is recommended that you register before your trip. You can also register while you are abroad.