Flying a Drone in Canada as a Visitor: Rules for Foreign Pilots

Canada’s landscapes attract drone pilots from around the world, but the rules for visitors are stricter than many expect. The key question is your drone’s weight.

The short answer

Source: Transport Canada’s guidance for foreign drone pilots.

Why visitors need an SFOC

Drones of 250 g or more must be registered in Canada, but foreign pilots can’t register their drones in the usual way. The Foreign SFOC-RPAS is how Transport Canada satisfies the registration requirement for foreign-owned drones. Your certification from another country (for example, an FAA or EASA certificate) doesn’t replace the Canadian pilot certificate.

Step by step for a 250 g+ drone

1. Get a Canadian pilot certificate by passing the Basic or Advanced exam online. There are no special procedures or credits for foreign pilots. See our Basic exam guide.
2. Apply for a Foreign SFOC-RPAS. Non-commercial (recreational) applications follow a simplified process; commercial work requires more documentation.
3. Apply well before your trip and include your dates, the drone’s details and where you plan to fly.
4. Carry everything when you fly: pilot certificate, SFOC and any conditions attached to it.

A Foreign SFOC-RPAS is usually issued for up to one year.

Rules that apply to everyone, including visitors

• Stay below 122 m (400 ft) and keep the drone in sight.
• Respect distances from people, airports and heliports.
• Don’t fly near emergency operations or wildfires — see wildfires and emergency sites.
• National parks are no-drone zones for recreational use — see flying in Canadian parks.
• Respect privacy and local bylaws — many cities ban take-offs in parks.

Bringing the drone across the border

You can generally bring a drone as personal equipment. Pack lithium batteries in your carry-on with protected terminals and check airline rules — see our battery travel guide.

Canadians travelling abroad

The reverse also applies: your Canadian certificate doesn’t automatically authorize you to fly in other countries. Check the aviation authority of your destination before you go.