New ID requirements for crossing the U.S. and Canadian border by land or sea now apply as of June 1, 2009. These rules are based on the U.S. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), which began as a result of 9/11.
Upon arrival into Canada, proof of citizenship is required. But Canada doesn’t require a passport (a photo ID and a government-issued document is still OK). It’s returning home to the United States that a passport — or proper ID — is required for proof of citizenship. Here’s a border crossing Q & A.
What are the Acceptable Forms of ID when Crossing the Canadian Border and Returning to the U. S.?
Documents that show proof of citizenship and comply with the WHTI for adults include:
- A passport
- A U.S. Passport Card
- Trusted Traveler Program Cards of NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST
- Enhanced Driver’s License
A birth record, baptismal record, a Certificate of Citizenship, or Certificate of Naturalization AND a photo ID are NO LONGER VALID forms of ID as of June 1, 2009. This is the same rule that applies to flying. The rule also applies if crossing the border and traveling by cruise ship or small boat. A visa is not required for U.S. citizens traveling to Canada.
- A passport book lasts for 10 years
- It currently costs $100 for those 16 and older.
- Allow four to six weeks for delivery
- For expedited two- to three-week delivery time add $60
- Apply for your passport at your local post office
Is a U.S. Passport Card a Valid Form of ID when Crossing the U.S. Canadian Border?
Yes. A U. S. Passport Card provides valid proof of citizenship for entry to and from the United States and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda. But take note: it is not valid for international air travel.
- A U. S. Passport Card currently costs $45 for those aged 16 and older
- A U. S. Passport Card costs $35 for youngsters under age 16
- An optional card is provided for $20 upon request when applying for a new passport or renewing an expired passport
- A U.S. Passport Card is valid for 10 years for adults or five years for children under 16
What is an Enhanced Driver’s License?
An Enhanced Driver’s License provides identity while verifying citizenship and is a WHTI-compliant document for use between the U.S. and Canada by land or sea.
- The EDL is not valid for international air travel
- The EDL is currently available in New York, Vermont, Michigan, and Washington State
What is a NEXUS Card?
NEXUS falls under the WHTI’s Trusted Traveler Programs category, which includes NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST cards.
A NEXUS card isn’t a passport as it is only good for travel between the United States and Canada. But a NEXUS card pre-clears low-risk Canadians and Americans. NEXUS card approval includes an interview by both U.S. and Canadian Immigrations. A word of note: the NEXUS powers that be only inform of the interview date through their Web site. Missing the appointment means a re-application is necessary, besides being out the $50 fee.
The good news about NEXUS is that it usually offers a dedicated car lane, meaning NEXUS holders can bypass long lines at the border. That said, everyone traveling in the car needs their own NEXUS card. Even with a NEXUS card, all items must be declared. A NEXUS card currently costs $50 and is valid for five years.
While NEXUS was designed for northern border crossings, SENTRI for the southern border crossings, and FAST for commercial truckers, any of these cards can be used at all U.S., Canadian and Mexican land and sea ports of entry.
What is the Passport or ID Requirement for Children?
Children under the age of 16 arriving by land or sea do not need a passport. They will, however, need an original or copy of their birth certificate. A Naturalization Certificate or a Canadian Citizenship Card is also valid.
If a child is traveling with only one parent when both parents are alive, or if the party traveling with a child is not the child’s parent or guardian, a letter from the child’s parent granting permission to travel to Canada is required. Having this letter notarized is the best way to go.
For groups of U.S. and Canadian citizen children under age 19 traveling with the likes of a school group, cultural organization, or sports team, an original or copy of their birth certificate, the Naturalization Certificate, or a Canadian Citizenship Card is acceptable.
U.S. and Canada Customs and Immigration Web Sites and Information
- U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services
- Department of Homeland Security
- U.S. Department of State or call 1-800-333-4636
- Citizenship and Immigration Canada or call 1-800-622-6232
- For NEXUS information in the U.S. and Canada call 1-866-639-8726.
Steven Howell - I have been a freelance writer for 14 years as a weekly contributor to the Plattsburgh Press-Republican. I have written more than 1,200 ...
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