What Foreign Affairs Canada Can and Cannot Do

What Foreign Affairs Can and Can Not Do


DIANE Ablonczy, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas and Consular Affairs), issued the following statement reminding Canadians of the importance of careful planning for safe travel and what consular officials can and cannot do:

“During this holiday season, the many Canadians travelling abroad are reminded to be proactive in reducing the risks and increasing the chances of having a safe and enjoyable trip. Consular services are available in more than 150 countries around the world, it is important for Canadians to know which services we do and do not provide.”

“Our consular website offers advice for planning a safe trip, including Travel reports and warnings for more than 200 countries, the Traveller’s Checklistand tips for travelling with children.”

Consular Officials CAN:

• Provide advice and information for medical services.

• Contact relatives or friends when you need serious help.

• Provide sources of information for local laws and customs.

• Replace lost or stolen passports.


Consular Officials CANNOT:

• Ask your mother-in-law to leave your house.

• Purchase tickets for a musical or entertainment event.

• Settle disputes between you and your partner.

• Pick up your dog at the airport.

Travelling anywhere involves a degree of risk, but this risk can be lessened with a little advance planning. Our government encourages Canadians going abroad to observe the three Rs of international travel:

• Read up on relevant topics such as safety, security and local laws in the destination country by consulting the travel reports and warnings.

• Register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service, which lets Foreign Affairs contact and assist Canadians in the event of emergency.

• Reach Foreign Affairs at their Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa if a Canadian experiences problems abroad.

“Safe and secure travel is primarily the responsibility of travellers. However, when travellers find themselves in situations beyond their control, Canadian officials are there to help.”

For more information on these and other topics, please consult www.travel.gc.ca.

Source: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada