Immigration Tips
Don’t forget your Passort!
After June 1st a passport or WHTI compliant document will be required by anyone, US or Canadian, wishing entry into the United States.
US Citizens returning to the US
After June 1st ,2009 U.S. citizens must present a passport or WHTI compliant document to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Services even when returning from travel only to Canada.
Canadian Visitors to the U.S.
Presently citizens of Canada are exempt from Visa and passport requirements as long as they carry documents that establish their citizenship such as a birth certificate, citizen certificate or passport. However, after June 1st. Canadians must have a passport in order to enter the United States.
Visitors to the U.S. from Outside the Western Hemisphere
In general, a nonimmigrant visitor to the U.S. from outside the Western Hemisphere must present a passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond the initial period of stay in the U.S. and nonimmigrant visa.
Canadian Residents returning to Canada
A Canadian citizen may be required to prove citizenship by presenting either a passport or a government issued birth certificate and a photo identification document like a valid driver’s license.
Visitors traveling to Canada
Visas are not required for U.S. citizens entering Canada. You will, however, need proof of your U.S. citizenship such as a passport or certified copy of your birth certificate issued by the city, county, or state in the U.S. where you were born, and photo identification such as valid driver’s licence. If you are a naturalized U.S. citizen and do not have a passport, you should travel with your naturalization certificate.
Alien permanent residents of the U.S must present their Alien Registration Card, commonly known as a “Green Card”
If you are a dual U.S. /Canadian citizen then present yourself as a Canadian citizen.
Single parents, grandparents or guardians traveling with children to Canada often need proof of custody or notarized letters from the other parent authorizing travel. (This is in addition to proof of citizenship as explained above.)
Any person under the age of 18 and traveling alone should carry a letter from his/her parent or guardian authorizing the trip. Travelers without such documentation may experience delays on clearing customs.
This is general information that is unofficial, subject to change and may not apply specifically to you. For current and comprehensive Customs and Immigration information, contact the U.S. and Canadian border protection agencies referenced below.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection:
www.cbp.gov
(315) 482-2261 (Alexandria Bay office)
Canada Border Services Agency:
www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
(613) 659-2301 (Lansdowne office)
