From 1939 to 1945, exit visas were required for individuals planning to leave Canada by ship, unless they were serving in the military. The source is Library and Archives Canada/Privy Council Office/RG 2, A-l-a,
The 1,242 records in the collection may include: Name, Age, Birthplace, Place of residence, Marital status, Name of spouse, Destination, Reason for emigrating.
The latter includes caring for an ailing relative and getting married. Some were for family reunification or to pursue a career, such as journalism or to receive an award.