The vibrant and vast neighbor to the north is a quick vacation option for many U.S. citizens. Though laws changed recently making it a bit more difficult to pop over like in earlier days, travel up north to Canada is still a quick and easy jaunt for most travelers. The law changes as of June 1st, 2009 state that any U.S. citizen re-entering U.S. territory by land or sea must have a passport or other secure, appropriate document. If you’re planning on traveling without a passport, pay attention to the document requirements as you don’t want to be turned away at the border. Prior to your trip, check with the U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) for the latest travel updates.

The WHTI

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is a U.S. law that requires all travelers to present a valid passport or other secure document upon entering the United States from inside the western hemisphere. Documents that fall under WHTI-compliant include a valid passport or passport card, enhanced driver’s license, a NEXUS card, military identification card, or a U.S. Merchant Mariner Document. Have your WHTI-compliant document ready well in advance of your trip to avoid delays or hassles at the border.

NEXUS Trusted Traveler Program

The NEXUS program is an option for permanent residents of both Canada and the United States, and any citizen of a foreign country temporarily and lawfully residing in either country. Both the U.S. and Canadian governments urge frequent travelers between the two countries to enroll in the NEXUS trusted traveler program. Enrollment in this program expedites the border crossing and you will receive a special card that denotes your participation in the program.

Entry Without a Passport

Passports are not strictly required for land travel to and from Canada. If you are in possession of a NEXUS card, that can take the place of carrying a passport for travel between Canada and the U.S. If you plan on traveling to Canada by land without a passport or a NEXUS card, you can gain access with a government-issued photo ID and proof of U.S. citizenship, such as your birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or an expired passport. Children under 16 must present proof of citizenship only.

Private Drivers

Entering Canada by a private car requires additional documents related to your vehicle if you are the driver. You will be required to show your driver’s license and vehicle registration at the border. Be sure that your car insurance covers travel into Canada or, if renting a car, that your renter’s insurance covers your travel into Canada. Your insurance must include liability coverage for your vehicle.

Tips

If your travel plans include entry to Canada via a third country or if you're traveling by air, you must have a valid U.S. passport.

About the Author

Shannon Bradford began publishing work in 2000. She has published humor pieces in the offbeat newspaper "The Amusement," and inspirational travel articles in the travelzine, Vagabondish. She graduated from Miami University with a B.A. in Spanish and Latin American studies.

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