Traveling To Canada: What You Need To Know

Canadian citizens, including dual citizens, need a valid Canadian passport to enter Canada. American-Canadians can travel with a valid Canadian or U.S. passport. Canadian permanent residents need a valid permanent resident card or permanent resident travel document. U.S. citizens must carry proper identification such as a valid U.S. passport. As of April 26, 2022, lawful permanent residents of the United States must show a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an acceptable travel document) and a valid green card (or equivalent proof of status in the U.S.) when travelling to Canada.

Entry requirements for US citizens

US citizens must carry proper identification when entering Canada. A valid US passport is the only universally accepted identification document and it proves that you have a right to return to the US.

US citizens who are members of the NEXUS program can use their membership card as proof of identification and citizenship when entering Canada by land, air or water. This applies when using either conventional or NEXUS-only lanes. US citizens who are members of FAST may use their membership card when entering Canada by land or water only. When travelling by air, FAST cards will only be accepted as proof of identification when travelling to Canada from the US.

If you are a US citizen or permanent resident, you must carry proof of citizenship such as:

• A certificate of citizenship or naturalization
• A certificate of Indian Status along with photo identification
• A US Permanent Resident Card

If you are a US permanent resident, ensure you carry proof of your status such as a US Permanent Resident Card.

In addition to your passport, you may need a travel authorization such as a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada. For tourist visits to Canada of less than 180 days, US citizens do not need visas. Other types of travel generally require visas.

Identification documents for Canadian citizens

All individuals entering Canada, including Canadian citizens, must carry acceptable identification documents. A valid Canadian passport is the only universally accepted identification document and proves one's right to return to Canada. It is recommended that even visits to the US are accompanied by a valid Canadian passport.

If one does not have a Canadian passport, other acceptable documents that support identity and/or citizenship include:

• Canadian emergency travel document
• Canadian temporary passport
• CANPASS authorization, held by a Canadian citizen
• Commercial driver registration program card, held by a Canadian citizen
• FAST card (Free and Secure Trade), held by a Canadian citizen
• NEXUS card, held by a Canadian citizen
• Citizenship and immigration documents such as a Canadian permanent residence card, Canadian citizenship card, or a Certificate of Canadian citizenship
• Provincial or territorial documents such as a birth certificate (for individuals born in Canada), enhanced driver's license, enhanced identification/photo card, health insurance card, or vehicle registration
• Other valid documents such as Canadian Forces identification, employment or student card with photo and signature, police identification, firearms acquisition certificate, Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) card or Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) card, or vehicle insurance certificate

For permanent residents with a NEXUS/FAST membership, a passport and proof of permanent residence are required, and these documents may need to be presented to a border services officer upon arrival at the border.

For those registered under the Indian Act, the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) or the Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) can be used to confirm status and the right of entry.

When applying for a new adult passport, individuals must submit at least one valid document to support their identity. This can include a driver's license, health card, Certificate of Indian Status, non-driver's license, ID card issued by the government, or employee identification. Foreign identity documents that are equivalent to Canadian identity documents, such as a passport or government-issued identification documents, may also be accepted.

Entry requirements for Canadian permanent residents

Canadian permanent residents need a valid permanent resident card or permanent resident travel document to enter Canada.

If you are a permanent resident with a NEXUS/FAST membership, you must travel with a passport and proof of permanent residence, and you may be asked to present these documents to the officer upon arrival at the border.

If you are registered under the Indian Act, you can enter and remain in Canada by right under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. The Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) is an identity document issued by Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, confirming that the cardholder is registered as a Status Indian under the Indian Act. The Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) has been replaced by the SCIS, but both are accepted at the border.

Canadian permanent residents must also carry proper identification for any children or minors travelling with them.

In addition to your passport, you may need a travel authorization such as a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.

Identification requirements for international visitors

International visitors to Canada must carry acceptable identification and a valid visa (if necessary) when entering the country. A passport is the only reliable and universally accepted identification document for international travel, so it is recommended that visitors carry one.

However, there are other forms of identification that can be used to enter Canada. These include:

• A valid Canadian visa
• An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)—this is required for visa-exempt foreign nationals to fly to or transit through Canada. Exceptions include U.S. citizens, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (USLPR), and travellers with a valid Canadian visa.
• A NEXUS card, which can be used as proof of identification and citizenship when entering Canada by land, air, or water.
• A FAST card, which can be used as proof of identification when entering Canada by land or water.

In addition to the above, visitors must also ensure that the name on their identification matches the name on their airline ticket and boarding pass.

Travel advice for US citizens

Entry Requirements

US citizens must carry valid identification such as a US passport when travelling to Canada. US citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits to Canada of less than 180 days. However, other types of travel generally require visas. It is recommended to check the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for current information.

Identification for Children

Children under 16 only need proof of US citizenship.

Travel Authorisation

US citizens are exempt from the requirement to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to enter Canada.

Border Crossing

If you are crossing the US-Canada border by road, be aware that criminals often target travellers leaving airports or other tourist destinations. They may signal that there is an issue with your vehicle, forcing you to pull over so they can grab valuables. Avoid pulling over and instead drive slowly to a gas station, police station or other safe area.

Crime

Canada generally has a lower crime rate than the US, but violent crimes do occur, especially in urban areas. Criminals often target parked cars, even in the trunk, so do not leave possessions unattended. Some jurisdictions, such as Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver, may fine you for leaving your car unlocked or leaving valuables visible. Pickpocketing is also common in tourist areas, so it is important to safeguard yourself and your property.

Protests and Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur frequently in Canada and may be unpredictable. They can take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. It is recommended to avoid areas where protests and demonstrations are taking place and to monitor local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Firearms

Canada controls firearms more strictly than the US. Visitors bringing any firearms or ammunition into Canada must declare them in writing using a Non-Resident Firearm Declaration form. Failure to declare may result in confiscation and arrest.

LGBTQI+ Travellers

There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organisation of LGBTQI+ events in Canada.

Child Pornography

Canada has strict laws concerning child pornography and there have been increased random checks of electronic devices at the border. Possession of child pornography may result in the seizure of the device as well as detention, arrest and prosecution.

Medical Insurance

Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage in Canada. It is recommended to purchase supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Driving

US driver's licenses are valid in Canada for visitors. Proof of auto insurance is required and US auto insurance is accepted for tourists. Some provinces require snow tires and drivers to keep their headlights on during the day. The use of hand-held cell phones while driving is banned in some provinces.

Frequently asked questions