Is military service compulsory in Canada?
- No, but serving in the regular Canadian Forces is a noble way to contribute
- Yes, but only for men
- Yes, during every federal election year
- Yes, for every citizen at age 18
Answer: No, but serving in the regular Canadian Forces is a noble way to contribute
There is no compulsory military service in Canada, so no one is forced to join. Choosing to serve in the regular Canadian Forces, in the navy, army or air force, is a noble way to contribute and an excellent career choice. Part-time service in the reserves is also possible.
Learn more: Defending Canada
- There is no compulsory military service in Canada.
- The regular Canadian Forces (navy, army and air force) are an excellent career choice.
- Part-time service is possible in the local navy, militia and air reserves, giving valuable experience, skills and contacts.
- The cadets help young people learn discipline, responsibility and skills.
- You can also serve in the Coast Guard or emergency services such as a police force or fire department.
- The Canadian Rangers are part of the Canadian Forces Reserves (militia). Drawing on indigenous knowledge and experience, they travel by snowmobile in winter and all-terrain vehicles in summer from Resolute to the Magnetic North Pole.
- The Rangers play a key role in meeting the security and sovereignty challenges of Canada’s North and keep the flag flying in Canada’s Arctic.