Traveling from the United States into Canada

Previously, U.S. residents required only ID and not a passport to enter Canada by land or air. As of January 23, 2007, this has changed. U.S. citizens arriving by air must have a valid passport. 

On June 1, 2009, this requirement will be extended to all land border crossings, as well as air and sea travel.

If you are driving into Canada prior to June 1, 2009, and you do not have a US passport, in order to enter Canada, you will need:

• A certified copy of your birth certificate issued by the city, county or state in the U.S. where you were born.

• Photo identification, such as a current, valid driver’s license.

NOTE:

• A driver’s license, voter’s registration card or Social Security card is NOT valid proof of U.S. citizenship.

• All U.S. citizens entering Canada from a third country must have a valid passport.
• If you are a dual U.S./Canadian citizen you should always present yourself as a Canadian citizen when entering Canada.
• It is recommended that U.S. citizens use their U.S. passports when entering or leaving the United States.

For further information, including information on business travel, visitors can contact the Embassy of Canada at 501 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20001, (202) 682-1740. Also, please visit the State Department's website to verify American requirements.

Re-entry into the United States from Canada

A U.S. passport is proof of both citizenship and identity. Persons who are dual nationals should enter the U.S. using U.S. documents only, as they could be fined under U.S. law for entering the U.S. on a foreign passport. U.S. citizens returning to the U.S. via air or bus who lack proof of citizenship should contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. consulate for assistance.

Be sure to contact your local government agency to verify what is required to re-enter the United States.

Traveling from a Country Other than the United States to Canada

For those coming to Canada from a country other than the United States, the documentation requirements will vary. Some may need VISAs since the documentation required will be dependent upon your country of origin. Visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/visas.asp or the Canadian Consulate in your home country to determine what is required in order to enter Canada

Please contact your local government agency to determine you re-entry requirements.