One of the lesser-known perks of holding Canadian permanent residency (PR) is the ability to travel to certain countries without applying for a visa. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous weekend escape, a relaxing tropical vacation, or a cultural experience just a few hours away, having a Canadian PR card can open doors to stress-free international travel. These visa-free travel opportunities are especially convenient for PRs who want to explore the world without the hassle of lengthy paperwork. Many countries near Canada welcome PRs without needing a separate visa, provided you carry your valid passport and PR card. If you’re a Canadian PR looking for the perfect short getaway destination, this guide will walk you through some of the top visa-free destinations close to Canada for PRs.
Each country offers something unique—beaches, wildlife, history, and luxury. We’ve also included flight times from major Canadian cities and details about visa-free stay durations to help you plan your ideal trip.
So, without further ado, let us begin!
Visa-Free Travel Options For Canadian PRs
Here’s a quick overview of the top visa-free destinations close to Canada for PRs and how long you can stay, along with approximate flight times from Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary.
| Destination | Length of visa-free stays | Flight Time (from Toronto) | Flight time (from Montreal) | Flight time (from Vancouver) | Flight time (from Calgary) |
| Bermuda | Short stays | Under 3 hours | Under 3 hours | N/A | N/A |
| The Bahamas | Up to 30 days | Under 3.5 hours | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Costa Rica | Up to 30 days | 5.5 hours | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Dominican Republic | Short visits | 4.5 hours | 4.5 hours | N/A | N/A |
| Jamaica | Short trips | 4–5 hours | 4.5 hours | N/A | 6.5 hours |
| Mexico | Up to 180 days | 4 hours | 4.5 hours | 5.5 hours | 5.75 hours |
| Sint Maarten | Up to 90 days | Under 5 hours | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Turks & Caicos Islands | Short trips | Under 4 hours | 4+ hours | N/A | N/A |
Bermuda: Island Elegance Close To Home
Entry: Visa-free for short stays
Flight Time: Direct flights from Toronto and Montreal to Hamilton take less than three hours.
Bermuda is one of the most easily accessible visa-free escapes for Canadian PRs and offers a unique combination of British charm and tropical relaxation. Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, this British Overseas Territory is famous for its pink-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and pastel-colored colonial architecture.
Whether you’re strolling through the cobblestone streets of St. George (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) or relaxing at Horseshoe Bay Beach, there’s something undeniably refined yet relaxed about Bermuda. Golf lovers will also enjoy the world-class courses that overlook the island’s scenic coastline.
The Bahamas: Crystal Waters And Laid-Back Luxury
Entry: Visa-free for up to 30 days
Flight Time: Under 3.5 hours from Toronto to Nassau.
Known for its postcard-worthy beaches and crystal-clear waters, The Bahamas is a favorite for travelers seeking a luxurious yet easygoing tropical break. Nassau, the capital, offers the perfect mix of vibrant local culture, stunning resorts, and historical sites.
Water sports like snorkeling, diving, and jet skiing are widely available, and if you’re looking for total relaxation, the island’s resorts offer some of the best all-inclusive experiences in the Caribbean.
Important to note: Canadian PRs must carry a valid PR card and passport, a return ticket, and ensure their PR card is valid for at least three months beyond the return date (or six months if transiting through the U.S.).
Costa Rica: Nature’s Playground
Entry: Visa-free for up to 30 days
Flight Time: Direct flights from Toronto to San José take about 5.5 hours.
Costa Rica is a dream for eco-tourism lovers and adventure seekers alike. From hiking in lush cloud forests and spotting howler monkeys to relaxing in hot springs near the Arenal Volcano, the country offers incredible biodiversity and friendly hospitality.
You can enjoy both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, each with its own charm—surfing in Tamarindo or enjoying the tranquil Caribbean vibes in Puerto Viejo.
Entry requirement: A valid PR card (even with just one day of validity) is accepted. You must also prove you have at least $100 USD for each month of your intended stay.
Dominican Republic: Sun, Sand, And Culture
Entry: Visa-free for short visits
Flight Time: About 4.5 hours from both Toronto and Montreal to Punta Cana.
Famous for its all-inclusive resorts, the Dominican Republic is also one one of the top visa-free destinations close to Canada for PRs which offers rich culture and natural beauty beyond the beaches. You can explore historical architecture in Santo Domingo, hike to waterfalls, or go whale watching near Samaná.
Punta Cana remains a go-to destination for Canadians, thanks to its pristine beaches, excellent hospitality, and abundant leisure activities.
Mexico: Endless Experiences Await
Entry: Visa-free for up to 180 days
Flight Time: Direct flights to Cancún take about 4 hours from Toronto and up to 5.75 hours from Calgary.
Mexico remains one of the most generous and versatile visa-free destinations for Canadian PRs. Whether you’re drawn to Cancún’s white sands, the historic streets of Mérida, or the ruins of Chichén Itzá, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
Travelers can indulge in traditional cuisine, enjoy vibrant nightlife, or relax at beachfront resorts. The country’s six-month visa-free allowance offers plenty of time to truly experience its cultural richness.
Jamaica: Vibes And Natural Beauty
Entry: Visa-free for short trips
Flight Time: 4–5 hours from Toronto to Montego Bay, and around 6.5 hours from Calgary.
Jamaica offers more than just reggae and rum—though those are certainly highlights. The island is full of natural wonders, from the Blue Mountains to the Seven Mile Beach.
Kingston’s energetic music scene and cultural history offer an authentic experience, while all-inclusive resorts in Montego Bay make planning a trip easy for families or couples.
Sint Maarten: Dual Culture, Double The Fun
Entry: Visa-free for up to 90 days
Flight Time: Direct flights from Toronto to Sint Maarten under five hours.
This Caribbean island is shared between the Dutch and French, offering a fascinating blend of cultures. On the Dutch side (Sint Maarten), you’ll find casinos, nightlife, and shopping. The French side (Saint-Martin) leans more toward boutiques and gourmet dining.
One of the island’s biggest draws is Maho Beach, where planes fly startlingly low over sunbathers—a favorite for aviation enthusiasts.
Turks And Caicos Islands: Caribbean Calm
Entry: Visa-free for short trips
Flight Time: About 4 hours from Toronto to Providenciales.
Turks and Caicos is all about peace and pristine beauty. With some of the clearest waters in the Caribbean and award-winning beaches like Grace Bay, it’s the perfect place to relax.
Visitors often enjoy snorkeling, exploring coral reefs, or just lounging in luxury resorts. The island’s upscale ambiance is ideal for anyone needing a quiet retreat.
Final Reminders For Travelers
As we discussed some of the top visa-free destinations close to Canada for PRs, there are certains things to keep in mind.
While these destinations allow Canadian PRs to enter without a visa, make sure you still carry:
- A valid passport from your country of citizenship
- Your Canadian PR card
- A return or onward ticket
Also, entry requirements can change at any time. It’s strongly advised to double-check with the embassy or consulate of your destination country before making any bookings.
With these visa-free travel options just a short flight away, Canadian PRs can enjoy spontaneous getaways and unforgettable adventures without the visa stress. Start planning and take advantage of the travel freedom your status offers!
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