Government Service Helps Canadians Stay Informed While Travelling Internationally at No Cost
Staying informed when traveling outside Canada has been made a little bit easier thanks to a service designed specifically for Canadians abroad.
The Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) is a free government service that notifies Canadian citizens living or traveling outside the country of emergencies both abroad and at home. It is especially handy for those traveling in areas prone to natural disasters or civil unrest, the government said on its online information page.
“We encourage you to register whether you are planning a vacation or living abroad,” the government said.
ROCA has been used by Canadians abroad in several past emergencies, including during the initial outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The government said the service helped 62,580 Canadian citizens and permanent residents return home, while continuing to provide stranded Canadians with updates.
How to Register
Online registration is available here and can be done for a single person or a group of travelers.
Although those registering must provide personal details, such as date of birth and emergency contact information, all personal information obtained through registration is kept confidential, the government said.
Those planning to travel to more than one destination simply register the details of their first destination country and then select the option ‘I will be visiting other countries’ in the “Other Information” section.
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Cruise-goers must select every port as a separate destination, including multiple ports in a single country. Simply enter the cruise ship name and add the name of the company in the ‘additional information’ field.
While Ottawa recommends the use of its notification service, it noted that doing so does not guarantee travelers will receive consular assistance in a foreign country.
“The decision to travel is your responsibility,” the information page said. “You are also responsible for your personal safety abroad.”
Ottawa recommends all travelers purchase “the best travel insurance” they can afford as well as check travel advice and advisories for their destination while planning the trip and again before departure.
