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Documents for entry into the United States
Water ports of entry
Since January 31, 2008, and until May 31, 2009, Canadian citizens entering the United States by water must present one of the following valid documents:
- a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's licence, PLUS a birth certificate or citizenship card;
- a passport;
- a NEXUS card;
- a Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card;
- an enhanced driver's licence (EDL) or an enhanced identification card (EIC) from a province or territory where a U.S. approved EDL/EIC program has been implemented;
- a Certificate of Indian Status.
- For those aged 18 years and under, only proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or citizenship card, is required.
During this transition period, travellers who do not present the appropriate documents may be delayed while U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers attempt to verify their citizenship and identity. Travellers may also be given an information sheet explaining the new procedures. The intent of this transition period is to raise awareness of the change, educate travellers and allow ample time for them to obtain the necessary documents.
Upon full implementation of the U.S. WHTI on June 1, 2009, Canadian citizens will be required to present one of the following valid U.S. WHTI-compliant documents when entering the United States by water:
- a passport;
- a NEXUS card;
- a FAST card; or
- an EDL or EIC from a province or territory where a U.S.-approved EDL/EIC program has been implemented.
NOTE: Canadian citizens entering the United States by water but exiting by air must present a valid passport in compliance with U.S. air exit requirements. Refer to the air travel requirements for more information.
The Government of Canada is seeking approval from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to accept the new Secure Certificate of Indian Status as a WHTI-compliant document. If accepted, the document could be used when entering the United States by land and water when the U.S. WHTI is fully implemented on June 1, 2009.
Canadian citizens 15 years of age or under will only require proof of citizenship, such as an original or a copy of a birth certificate, or a Canadian citizenship card. 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.
Entry requirements to the United States have not changed for non-Canadian citizens (permanent residents) residing in Canada. For more information on U.S. entry requirements, consult the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Web site.
For more information:
