Scenic Moraine Lake in the Canadian Rockies surrounded by mountains

Sending a Postcard from Canada: Postage, Stamps & Delivery Times

From scenic Moraine Lake to the Toronto and Vancouver skylines and the vast Yukon – all about Canada Post, stamps, red mailboxes, and delivery times.

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Whether hiking in the national parks of Alberta, visiting Vancouver, or marveling at Niagara Falls – Canada captivates outdoor enthusiasts and city travelers alike. To let your loved ones back home join in on your adventures, sending a classic postcard is a must.

However, mailing a postcard from the second-largest country in the world comes with a few details to keep in mind. How much is international postage for postcards? Where can you buy stamps? And how do you use Canada Post's red mailboxes? We have gathered all the key facts for a smooth postcard mailing experience.

Last updated: June 2026

The Journey of Your Postcard in Canada

Use the official Canada Post system and drop your postcards into the bright red mailboxes to ensure reliable delivery.

A red telephone booth on a brown brick wall representing a post office location

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Canada Post Office

Official outlets of Canada Post / Postes Canada are easily recognized by their red logo. Besides standalone offices, you will find post counters inside drugstores (such as Shoppers Drug Mart or Pharmaprix in Quebec) or local convenience stores. Here you can buy stamps and get helpful assistance.

A graffiti-covered Canada Post mailbox stands against greenery

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The Red Mailbox

Canada Post mailboxes are bright red and located on street corners, outside shopping centers, and post offices. Important: Many mailboxes have two slots. One is for local mail (often labeled 'Local' or with the city's name), and the other is for all other destinations ('Other' / 'Autres'). Always drop your postcards to Europe in the Other/Autres slot.

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Getting the Right Stamps

For an international postcard to Europe, you need an International Rate stamp, which currently costs $3.65 CAD. Alternatively, you can use three domestic Permanent Stamps (marked with a 'P' symbol, currently valued at $1.24 CAD each). The total value of $3.72 CAD covers the $3.65 CAD international postage requirement and saves a trip to buy single stamps.

How much does postage from Canada cost?

Official rates of Canada Post for standard postcards to Europe and worldwide (as of: 2026).

Canada Post (Official Mail)

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Postcard (Souvenir Shop)approx. $1.50 - $3.00 CAD

Stamp (International)$3.65 CAD (or 3x Permanent Stamps for $3.72 CAD)

Real Total Cost per Cardapprox. $5.15 - $6.72 CAD

Effort on VacationFind a post office (e.g., in a drugstore), buy stamps, and locate a red mailbox

Delivery Time (Estimated)4-7 business days (can take up to 2 weeks from remote/northern areas)

Tired of stamp hunting?

Photo by John Lee on UnsplashPhoto by Edward Koorey on Unsplash

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Inspiration: Greetings from the Land of the Maple Leaf

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Frequently Asked Questions about Postcards from Canada

How much is postage for a postcard from Canada to Europe?

To send a standard postcard internationally, Canada Post charges $3.65 CAD (International Letter-post up to 30 g).

Can I use domestic Permanent Stamps for international mail from Canada?

Yes, you can. A Permanent (P) stamp covers the domestic rate of currently $1.24 CAD. You can combine three P stamps (3 x $1.24 = $3.72 CAD) to cover the $3.65 CAD international postage. This is often simpler than searching for individual international stamps.

Where can I buy stamps in Canada?

Stamps are available at Canada Post offices, which are frequently located inside pharmacies (like Shoppers Drug Mart or Pharmaprix in Quebec) and convenience stores.

How long does a postcard from Canada to Europe take?

Regular airmail from Canada to Europe typically takes 4 to 7 business days. From remote areas like the Yukon, Northwest Territories, or Newfoundland, it can take up to two weeks.

Is there anything to keep in mind when dropping mail in Canada Post mailboxes in Canada?

Yes. Many red mailboxes have two slots: one for local mail ("Local" or the city name) and one for other destinations ("Other" / "Autres"). Postcards to Europe must go in the "Other/Autres" slot.