Skip to content
Rate article
1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
5.00/5 - 2 votes
Share article

Canada is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant communities—and newcomers want to experience it all. And while many newcomers are eager to explore their new home, the costs of admission fees, transportation, and activities can quickly add up. But budgets can be tight, especially for those on temporary permits or settling into life in Canada.

That’s why it’s worth knowing that the federal government is launching the Canada Strong Pass, a new summer initiative that opens the doors to some of Canada’s most iconic parks, museums, and travel experiences—for free or at a steep discount. This initiative will run from June 20 to September 2, 2025, and it’s available to everyone in Canada, including international students, work permit holders, and tourists. 

Key takeaways for newcomers to Canada 

  • Free or discounted access to national parks, museums, and rail travel across Canada from June 20 to September 2, 2025. 
  • No registration required—just show up and enjoy. 
  • Open to everyone in Canada, including temporary residents and newcomers. 
  • Free admission for children and deep discounts for youth (18–24 years old). 
  • Parks Canada Discovery Pass holders get an extra three months added to their pass. 
  • Makes travel and exploration more affordable during the busy summer season. 

Advertisement

What’s included in the Canada Strong Pass?

Whether you’re just starting your life in Canada or visiting family for the summer, the Canada Strong Pass is a great way to experience the best of the country’s nature and culture without breaking the bank. 

Parks Canada access — what newcomers should know

Canada has 48 national parks, 171 historic sites, and dozens of marine conservation areas—and most require paid admission or a Parks Canada Discovery Pass. This includes popular destinations like: 

  • Banff National Park in Alberta, including stays in the town of Banff. 
  • The Icefields Parkway, a scenic route between Banff and Jasper, which typically requires a valid park pass to drive through. 
  • Gros Morne in Newfoundland, Cape Breton Highlands in Nova Scotia, and many more across the country. 

With the Canada Strong Pass, admission to all Parks Canada-administered sites is free for all visitors, and camping fees are 25% off. That means you can explore the country’s most famous natural sites without the extra cost, whether you’re driving, hiking, or setting up a tent. 

Museum and cultural site discounts

Canada’s museums are a great way to explore the country’s history, culture, and diversity—especially if you’re learning about Canada for the first time. 

What’s included: 

  • Free admission for children under 18
  • 50% off admission for youth aged 18–24
  • Applies to national museums, like the Canadian Museum of History (Gatineau), Canadian Museum of Immigration (Halifax), Canadian Museum of Nature (Ottawa), the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (Winnipeg), and the Plains of Abraham Museum and select provincial and territorial museums and galleries. 

Whether you’re into science, art, Indigenous heritage, or immigration stories, you’ll find something that speaks to your experience and helps you understand Canada more deeply. 

Advertisement

Travel across Canada by train — for less 

VIA Rail is Canada’s national passenger rail service, with trains connecting major cities and smaller communities across the country. 

Under the Canada Strong Pass: 

  • Children under 18 travel free, when accompanied by an adult 
  • Young adults aged 18–24 get 25% off regular fares 

This is especially useful for newcomers who want to visit family, explore new parts of Canada, or enjoy a scenic cross-country journey without the hassle of driving or flying. 

Can newcomers use the Canada Strong Pass?

Everyone in Canada is eligible for the Canada Strong Pass. That includes: 

  • Canadian citizens and permanent residents 
  • Temporary foreign workers 
  • International students 
  • Tourists and visitors from abroad. 

You don’t need to be a Canadian passport holder or have permanent status. If you’re in Canada between June 20 and September 2, 2025, you’re eligible to use the benefits. 

This is especially good news for people here on work permits, visitor visas, or refugee claimants who want to explore the country during their stay. 

How to use the Canada Strong Pass

There’s no physical pass to carry, no sign-up form, and no app to download. 

To use the Canada Strong Pass: 

  • Visit a participating location between June 20 and September 2, 2025 
  • Let them know you’re there to access the Canada Strong Pass discount or free entry 
  • Show ID to verify age (for youth or child discounts), if needed 

If you’ve already bought a Parks Canada Discovery Pass that covers the summer of 2025, you’ll automatically get a 3-month extension at no cost. 

You can learn more about it here. 

About the author

Stephanie Ford profile picture

Stephanie Ford

She/Her
Finance, Law and Immigration Writer
Stephanie is a content creator who writes on legal and personal finance topics, specializing in immigration and legal topics. She earned a Bachelor of Laws and a Diploma in Financial Planning in Australia. Stephanie is now a permanent resident of Canada and a full-time writer at Moving2Canada.
Read more about Stephanie Ford
Citation "The Canada Strong Pass Explained for Newcomers to Canada." Moving2Canada. . Copy for Citation

Advertisement

  • Canada Abroad team

    Canada Abroad

    Canada Abroad is a transparent Canadian immigration consultancy with advice you can trust. Led by Deanne Acres-Lans (RCIC #508363), the team delivers professional, regulated, and efficient service.

  • The Doherty Fultz Immigration team staff members

    Doherty Fultz Immigration

    Led by Anthony Doherty (RCIC #510956) and Cassandra Fultz (#514356), the Doherty Fultz team uses their 40+ years of experience to empower you towards settling in Canada.

  • Perez McKenzie team 6

    Perez McKenzie Immigration

    Led by Jenny Perez (RCIC #423103), Perez McKenzie Immigration is a Canadian immigration consultancy based in British Columbia, with offices in Vancouver and Whistler.

Our Partners

Get your immigration questions answered by an expert

Speak with a regulated Canadian immigration consultant to help plan your immigration. Moving2Canada is happy to recommend a handful of exceptional consultants.
  • Smiling young woman at a laptop

    Find the best immigration program for you

    Take our free immigration quiz and we'll tell you the best immigration programs for you!

  • Chef at restaurant spooning vegetables

    Get matched to job opportunities

    Get matched to job opportunities from Canadian employers who are seeking to hire people with your skills.

  • Access our immigration roadmaps

    Our immigration roadmaps will teach you the basics of Express Entry, study permits, and more! Take control of your own immigration process.

Exclusive

Unlock exclusive resources with a free account.

Create a Moving2Canada account to get the resources you need, tailored to your profile. Get matched with the best immigration programs & job offers, and access exclusive events & resources.