As we prepare for the upcoming ISC World Tournament in Melbourne, Ontario, Canada, the International Softball Congress (ISC) reminds all teams, players, coaches staff and fans traveling from outside Canada to verify their travel documentation well in advance of their trip.
International travel requirements vary depending on your country of citizenship, and it is the responsibility of each individual traveler to ensure they have the proper documents to enter Canada. Failure to obtain the correct travel authorization could result in denied boarding on flights or delays at the Canadian border, so please take time now to confirm your eligibility.
Note: This document is for general guidance only. Always refer to official Government of Canada resources for the most current information: https://travel.gc.ca
1. Valid passport required
All travelers entering Canada from outside the country must carry a valid passport (or other accepted travel document) from their country of citizenship.
Your passport should:
- Be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada
- Match the name used on airline tickets and travel bookings
More information: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/documents/visas
2. Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
Many visitors traveling to Canada by air from visa‑exempt countries must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before boarding their flight.
An eTA is:
- An electronic entry requirement linked to your passport
- Required for most visa‑exempt travelers flying to Canada
- Valid for up to five years or until your passport expires
The application is simple and usually approved within minutes.
Cost: 7 CAD. (date; May 30, 2026)
Apply for an eTA here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta/apply.html
3. Visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa)
Travelers from certain countries must apply for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) before traveling to Canada. Visa applications require additional documentation and processing time, so teams should apply as early as possible.
Use this official tool to determine whether you need a visitor visa or an eTA: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/check-visa-eta.html
4. United States citizens
U.S. citizens do not need a visa or an eTA to travel to Canada. However:
- When traveling by air, U.S. citizens must have a valid U.S. passport.
- When entering by land or sea, U.S. citizens must carry acceptable travel documents as per Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative rules (for example, a U.S. passport or certain other approved documents).
Please confirm current document requirements before departure using official Government of Canada resources.
5. U.S. permanent residents (Green Card holders)
Travelers who are lawful permanent residents of the United States must carry:
- A valid passport from their country of citizenship
- A valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
They do not require a visitor visa, but they do require an eTA if traveling to Canada by air, because they are visa‑exempt air travelers. They do not require an eTA when entering Canada by land or sea.
6. Additional travel considerations
Teams should also consider the following when planning travel:
- Ensure passports will not expire during travel
- Check airline requirements before departure (including name matching and document requirements)
- Confirm any transit visa or transit eTA requirements if connecting through other countries
- Allow extra time for visa or eTA processing if required
For official travel information from the Government of Canada, visit: https://travel.gc.ca
7. Plan early to avoid travel issues
The ISC expects teams, players and fans from multiple countries to participate and attending the World Tournament. To help ensure a smooth arrival in Canada, we strongly recommend that all teams and fans verify their travel requirements immediately using the Government of Canada’s online tools.
If your team includes players from multiple countries, each individual should check their own entry requirements based on their citizenship and how they will travel to Canada (air, land, or sea).
We look forward to welcoming you to Canada
The ISC World Tournament is the premier event in men’s fastpitch softball, and we look forward to welcoming players, coaches, and fans from around the world to Melbourne, Ontario. Safe travels, and we look forward to seeing you on the field.
