United States and Canadian Passport Rules

The rules regarding travel between the United States and Canada have recently changed. Acceptable documents vary according to mode of travel and length of stay.

Entry into Canada

Canadian authorities require that all individuals wishing to enter the country carry proof of citizenship and of identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, NEXUS card, government-issued photo ID (e.g. driver's license) and proof of U.S. citizenship such as a U.S. birth certificate, naturalization certificate or expired U.S. passport will be accepted by the Canadian government.

Re-entry into the U.S. by Air or Land

The U.S. government requires all citizens traveling by air to present a passport or passport card for entry or re-entry into the U.S. Citizens traveling by land may present a passport, passport card or enhanced driver's license (EDL).

Re-entry into the U.S. by Sea

Stipulations regarding re-entry into the U.S. by sea depend on whether the traveler's itinerary is a closed-loop cruise. Closed-loop, or cruises departing and returning to the same U.S. port, are exempt from passport requirements and may present an original or certified copy of a birth certificate, a certificate of naturalization, a passport card or an enhanced driver's license (EDL), along with a government-issued photo ID for re-entry.

Exception

U.S. citizens who visit a third country are required to present a passport for re-entry.

Canadian Citizens

Canadian citizens wishing to travel to the U.S. and/or re-enter Canada must present a Canadian passport, enhanced driver's license or NEXUS card.

References

• U.S. Department of State
• Canada Border Services Agency