The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) remind summer visitors to bring the right documents when crossing either border.
According to the CBP, the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) requires U.S. and Canadian citizens aged 16 or over to present a valid, acceptable travel document that denotes both identity and citizenship when entering the U.S. by land or sea. U.S. and Canadian citizens under age 16 may present a birth certificate or alternate proof of citizenship when entering by land or sea.
WHTI-compliant documents accepted at land and sea ports include U.S. or Canadian passports; U.S. Passport Card; Trusted Traveler Card (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST/EXPRESS); state or province-issued Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (when and where available). See also the WHTI website, www.GetYouHome.gov.
A radio frequency identification (RFID) travel document, such as a U.S. Passport card, enhanced driver’s license / enhanced identification card, or trusted traveler program card expedites entry and makes border crossing more efficient.
Canada’s requirements for entry have not changed much as a result of the WHTI. Canadians returning home, including children, are encouraged to provide proper identification to assist in confirming their legal right to enter Canada.
U.S. citizens do not need to carry a passport to enter Canada but do need proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, and photo ID.
Visitors to Canada need also be aware of requirements regarding the import of firearms. Many weapons are not allowed into Canada and travelers must declare firearms or weapons in their possession. Anyone who fails to do so can face prosecution plus seizure of both firearms and the vehicle used to transport them.
See www.cbsa.gc.ca for more entry requirements into Canada for non-Canadians and to download “I Declare,” a detailed publication describing what to expect when bringing goods into Canada. Border wait times are posted on the CBSA website and Twitter.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Society charged with the management, control, and protection of American borders at and between official points of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
For further information, write U.S. Customers and Border Protection, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20503.
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