Quick answer: For a qualifying 1-ounce letter or postcard sent from the United States to Canada, use one Global Forever stamp. Its current postage value is $1.75. Two ordinary domestic Forever stamps total $1.64 and are 11¢ short; three total $2.46 and cover the rate but overpay by 71¢.
This answer uses USPS prices effective July 12, 2026 and checked August 31, 2026. It applies only when the mailpiece meets First-Class Mail International letter or postcard standards.
One-Ounce Letter or Postcard to Canada
| Stamp option | Total postage | Result at the $1.75 rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Global Forever stamp | $1.75 | Exact current rate |
| 2 ordinary Forever stamps | $1.64 | 11¢ short |
| 3 ordinary Forever stamps | $2.46 | Covers the rate; 71¢ overpayment |
You may combine valid U.S. postage to reach the required amount. A Global Forever stamp is the simplest exact option for a basic qualifying one-ounce letter or postcard.
If the Letter Weighs More Than One Ounce
Current retail First-Class Mail International letter prices to Canada rise after one ounce. The table below shows the required postage and the minimum number of ordinary 82¢ Forever stamps that covers it:
| Weight not over | Current Canada letter rate | Ordinary Forever stamps | Total applied |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 oz | $1.75 | 3 | $2.46 |
| 2 oz | $2.35 | 3 | $2.46 |
| 3 oz | $2.95 | 4 | $3.28 |
| 3.5 oz | $3.50 | 5 | $4.10 |
Those combinations use only ordinary domestic Forever stamps and intentionally round up to the required amount. You can reduce overpayment by combining Global Forever stamps with other valid denominations. For example, two Global Forever stamps total exactly $3.50 for a qualifying 3.5-ounce letter at the current rate.
When the Table Does Not Apply
- Nonmachinable letter: the current international nonmachinable surcharge is 49¢.
- Large envelope or flat: it follows a separate price table; a one-ounce flat to Canada currently starts at $3.30.
- Rigid, nonrectangular or uneven piece: it can be charged as a package rather than a letter or flat.
- Merchandise or customs requirements: contents can change the eligible service and documentation. Do not assume letter postage is sufficient.
- Different origin: this calculation is for mail sent from the United States to Canada.
Before You Mail
- Weigh and measure the finished envelope, including every insert.
- Confirm it qualifies as a postcard, letter or flat.
- Identify whether it contains documents or merchandise.
- Use the USPS international postage calculator for the finished piece.
- Check current international service availability and customs rules before mailing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mail a letter to Canada with ordinary Forever stamps?
Yes. Valid ordinary Forever stamps contribute their current domestic one-ounce value. At 82¢ each, two are short of the current $1.75 one-ounce Canada rate, while three cover it but overpay.
Are two Forever stamps enough for Canada?
Two ordinary 82¢ Forever stamps total $1.64, which is 11¢ short for a qualifying one-ounce letter or postcard to Canada. Add valid postage to reach the rate or use one Global Forever stamp.
Can I use three Forever stamps to mail to Canada?
Three ordinary Forever stamps total $2.46. That covers a qualifying Canada letter up to two ounces at current rates, but it overpays the one-ounce rate.
Does one Global Forever stamp cover a two-ounce letter to Canada?
No under the current July 12, 2026 price table. One Global Forever stamp provides $1.75, while a qualifying two-ounce letter to Canada costs $2.35.
How many Forever stamps do I need for a card to Canada?
A qualifying postcard costs $1.75, so one Global Forever stamp is exact. A folded greeting card is usually evaluated as a letter; its weight, dimensions, thickness and shape determine the price.
For broader destination and format guidance, read Forever Stamps for International Mail. To shop the appropriate international postage type, browse Global Forever Stamps.
Source checked: USPS Notice 123 and USPS First-Class Mail International. Rates and requirements can change; verify the finished mailpiece before mailing.