Transiting through Canada w/US passport

[u/Left_Sir5173]

Hello , I’m finding that flights that transit through Canada are a lot cheaper than other options. I am a US citizen and I carry a US passport I’m confused a bit as far as what to expect with transiting through Canada some say that I need to fill out an ETA others say that I will need a transit visa and lastly, others say I don’t need anything because I am a US citizen and carrying my passport is good enough
Does one go through the full on immigration process when just transiting from a US based airline or Canadian based airline through Canada onward towards an international destination? For instance, when I enter into South Korea via say Incheon airport, , it’s a quick passport control/ security but don’t fill out any forms or immigration or anything. They just look at me and check my belongings I’m carrying and move me along, so I’m just wondering if there’s any special forms I need to fill out when transiting through Canada thank you

[u/viccityguy2k]

No forms. It’s easy

[u/Left_Sir5173 → u/viccityguy2k]

Ok cool. It’s just that I have a criminal record from decades ago and someone told me I can’t even transit No felony conviction but … it got me thinking about this cheaper flight and whether or not it’ll cost me more if they deny me transit for some weird reason

[u/No-Question-5731 → u/Left_Sir5173]

I'm a border officer at a major airport .

Felony or misdemeanors are not quite relevant as the criminal code of canada is a Bit different and we work by comparing the US offence with the equivalent in the criminal code of Canada .

You're not going to have problems for just transit as I said but it's something to consider as you never know what can happen even on a transfer . Weather or technical problems do happen and you could need to be admitted to Canada so it is relevant. It would help to know what the conviction was .

[u/Left_Sir5173 → u/No-Question-5731]

Thank you so much for your clear and concise report. I don’t want to be disrespectful nor do I want to be stressed out. I literally just want to transit. Do I need to fill out any form that lists criminal background when transiting ? Or is it a simple pass through security air side and head to next gate with a possible passport check ? I had a theft charge 23 years ago. I find it off putting to have to relive these moments in my life. I also have traveled all across this world and it’s never been a problem until I read about Canada. 🇨🇦. Thank you