Documents for entry into the United States

Document requirements for Canadian children

Canadian citizens travelling by air to, through or from the United States must present one of the following valid documents:

• a passport; or
• a NEXUS card when used at a kiosk at participating Canadian airports and at all U.S. airports when returning to Canada.

This requirement applies to all travellers, regardless of age, including children.

Refer to the air travel requirements for more information.

Upon full implementation of the U.S. WHTI on June 1, 2009, Canadian citizens 15 years of age or under will only be required to present proof of citizenship, such as an original or a copy of a birth certificate, or a Canadian citizenship card, when entering the United States by land or water. Canadian citizens 18 years of age or under who are travelling with a school or other organized group, under adult supervision with parental/guardian consent, may also present proof of citizenship alone.

Since January 31, 2008, and until May 31, 2009, Canadian citizens aged 18 and under are only required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or citizenship card, when entering the United States by land or water.

Refer to the document requirements for land and water modes for more information.

Permanent residents

Entry requirements to the United States have not changed for non-Canadian citizens aged 18 and under, including permanent residents residing in Canada. For more information on U.S. entry requirements, visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Web site.