Canada
Polite, multicultural, and proud of its civility.
Apologise often, tip generously, and respect the diversity around you.
Strictly Prohibited
Public consumption of alcohol outside licensed areas — fines on the spot.
Cannabis is legal but smoking in many parks, near schools, and in vehicles is restricted.
Hate speech, slurs, or discriminatory comments — taken very seriously; can lead to charges.
Wildlife harassment (feeding bears, photographing too close to elk/moose) — heavy fines in parks.
No state religion — respect indigenous sacred sites; ask before photographing ceremonies.
Don't skip tipping — 15-20% expected at restaurants.
Don't confuse Canadian identity with American — they're proud of the distinction.
Don't litter — even cigarette butts can lead to fines in many provinces.
Laws to Know
Cannabis is legal nationwide for adults, but public consumption rules vary by province.
Open alcohol in public is generally illegal except in licensed areas.
Hate speech laws are strictly enforced.
Common Immigration & Visa Mistakes
Missing biometrics appointment within deadline — application closed.
Submitting fake hotel/job letters — IRCC cross-checks; lifetime ban risk.
Students missing PAL (Provincial Attestation) since Jan 2024.
Insufficient GIC of CAD 20,635 for study permit.
Hiding past US/UK visa refusals — recorded permanently.
Booking flights before visa approved.
Penalties for Foreigners
Overstay 6+ months: removal order + 1-year ban.
Working without permit: deportation + 5-year ban.
Drug trafficking: up to life imprisonment.
Drunk driving: CAD 1,000+ fine + criminal record + deportation risk.
Hate speech: up to 2 years prison.
Feeding wildlife in national parks: CAD 25,000.
Social Etiquette
Say 'sorry' liberally — it's used as a polite filler, not just for mistakes.
Hold doors open for the person behind you.
Recycle and compost — sort waste correctly.
No specific Don'ts in this category.
Tipping
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars.
No specific Don'ts in this category.
Banned Substances — Don't Carry
Cannabis across the border (yes, even though it's legal inside Canada).
All firearms without prior Import Declaration (Form RCMP 5589); pepper spray for human use.
Mace, switchblades, butterfly knives, brass knuckles, taser/stun guns.
Hate-propaganda materials and child-protection-violating content.
Fresh fruit, meat, plants, soil — declare on CBSA card or face C$1,300 fine.
Test what you've learned.
10 quick questions across countries.