Getting to Nova Scotia
Getting to Nova Scotia by Air
Halifax Stanfield International Airport is located approximately 33km/20mi from the capital city of Halifax. It contains pre-clearance for U.S. Customs and is the Atlantic Canadian hub for all domestic, regional and international services. Scheduled air service into Nova Scotia is also available.
Getting to Nova Scotia by Ferry or Cruise
Arrive by sea by ferry - where you can come by car, motorcycle, RV, or as a walk-on passenger - or by cruise ship. Halifax and Sydney are the main ports of call for more than 20 major cruise ship lines.
- Bay Ferries - Saint John, NB - Digby, NS and (new in 2016) Portland, Maine, USA - Yarmouth, NS
- Northumberland Ferries - Wood Islands, PEI - Caribou, NS
- Marine Atlantic Ferries - Argentia/Port aux Basques, NL - North Sydney, NS
Getting to Nova Scotia by Land
Whether you are travelling by car, motorcycle or RV or sitting back and relaxing on a train or bus, you'll be amazed at the scenic beauty and friendly folks you'll meet along your travels in Nova Scotia.
Nova Scotia is a world-renowned motorcycle touring destination and entry either by road or by ferry is a breeze for all visitors driving here.
Information on Travelling to Nova Scotia, Canada
NEW for 2016: Electronic Travel Authorization Program (eTA)
As of March 15, 2016 it will be legally mandatory for incoming visitors from visa-waiver countries other than the United States to have an eTA upon entering Canada.
Please visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/department/media/multimedia/video/visitcanada/visitcanada.asp to learn more.
Entering Canada via Customs
Passport and visa requirements for visiting Canada will vary according to your citizenship, residency and purpose for visiting Canada. We recommend you obtain more information before you complete your travel plans by contacting the nearest:
- Canadian Embassy
- High Commission
- Your country’s Customs/Immigration office
Information on visas for temporary residents can be found on the Citizenship and Immigration website or by calling 1-888-242-2100.
United States Citizens
Citizens of the United States (U.S.) travelling between the U.S. and Canada require a valid U.S. passport, Air NEXUS card or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner document.
For up-to-date information for visitors from the Canadian Border Services Agency, go to www.cbsa.gc.ca or call 1-800-461-9999 (within Canada) or (506) 636-5064.
Information on visas for temporary residents, please visit www.travel.state.gov.