- Most visa-exempt visitors flying to Canada need an eTA; US citizens don't.
- Terminal 1: Air Canada and Star Alliance partners. Terminal 3: most other airlines.
- Downtown Toronto is about 25–30 km away: roughly 30–45 minutes by road.
- The UP Express train runs from Terminal 1 to Union Station in about 25 minutes.
1. Get your eTA before you fly
If you're visiting from a visa-exempt country such as the UK, you need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to board a flight to Canada. US citizens don't need one. Apply only on the official Government of Canada website; other sites charge extra for the same form. The fee is CAN$7 at the time of writing, and many applications are approved within minutes.
The eTA is linked to the passport you used to apply, so travel on that same passport.
2. Know your terminal
Pearson has two passenger terminals. Terminal 1 handles Air Canada and its Star Alliance partners. Terminal 3 handles most other airlines, including British Airways and WestJet. Airlines do move, so check your boarding pass.
A free Terminal Link train connects the two terminals if you need to switch.
3. What happens after you land
- Immigration. Your eTA is checked electronically. Eligible passport holders can use the kiosks or eGates.
- Baggage claim. Collect your bags from the carousel shown on the screens.
- Customs. Declare food, plants and goods over your allowance.
- Arrivals hall. This is where a pre-booked driver waits for you.
4. Getting into the city
UP Express train
The fastest public option to downtown: about 25 minutes from Terminal 1 to Union Station, with trains every 15 minutes for most of the day. From Terminal 3, take the Terminal Link train to Terminal 1 first. Check current fares and hours on the UP Express website.
Taxi and rideshare
Usually 30 to 60 minutes to downtown. Prices vary with traffic and demand and are higher at busy times.
Private transfer
A driver meets you in arrivals, helps with your bags and takes you straight to your door, at a price fixed before you travel. It's the simplest option with children, lots of luggage, or a destination outside downtown such as Oakville or Niagara Falls.
5. Tips for your first hour
- Set up an eSIM or roaming before you land, so you can message your driver.
- Carry a little Canadian cash; cards are accepted almost everywhere.
- Dress in layers. Toronto weather can change quickly, especially in spring and autumn.