2018 was another record breaking year for Canadian tourism
For a second consecutive year, a record number of tourists chose Canada for their holiday destination.
A massive 21.13 million travellers visited Canada in 2018 - the first time Canada has topped the 21 million mark.
The record numbers have been attributed to a number of different factors.
For instance, it's now easier than ever before for tourists to explore Canada. In recent years the Canadian Government has implemented visa changes for priority markets by introducing the Electronic Travel Authorization (Eta) Visa.
In addition, new flight routes and increased service to Canadian airports have seen flight capacity rise by 6% (when compared to 2017) to the highest level ever – representing an additional two million seats on flights to Canada.
Last year overnight arrivals to Canada from countries other than the United States reached an all-time high of 6.7 million (32% of total arrivals). Overseas tourists typically stay in Canada longer and spend more, benefiting tourism businesses in communities across Canada, and the economy.
Tourism generates 745,300 jobs in communities across Canada and contributes an estimated $102.5 billion to the economy.
So where do Canadian tourists come from?
Figures from December 2018
- United States – 944,886 (2% increase from 2017)
- China – 737,379 (first time exceeding 700,000, 6% increase)
- France – 604,166, (first time exceeding 600,000, 5% increase)
- Mexico – 404,402 (first time exceeding 400,000, 5% increase)
- India – 287,416 (15% increase)
Travelling to Canada?
If you’re planning a trip to Canada, Visa First can help you!
Whether you’re thinking about a vacation or dreaming of living and working in Canada, we take the stress out of the visa application process.
Our Canadian visas
Want to visit Canada on holiday? You’ll need a Canadian ETA. Apply for yours here.
Live and work in Canada for up to two years. Apply for your Working Holiday Visa here.