Biographical information on certain travellers seeking entry to Canada will be disclosed to the U.S so that entry into one country confirms the exit from the other. Find out more on the Entry/Exit Initiative Web page.
Canada has specific requirements for who can and cannot enter Canada and the type of identification they require.
The CBSA is vigilant in determining the admissibility of individuals by verifying identification and checking for violations of Canadian law.
Make sure you carry proper identification for yourself and any children travelling with you to assist in confirming your legal right to enter Canada.
The Government of Canada recommends that Canadian citizens travel with a valid Canadian passport because it is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel.
International transportation companies such as airlines may require travellers to present a passport. Therefore, Canadian citizens may face delays or may not be allowed to board the plane or other conveyance if they present other documents such as those noted below.
Requirements to Enter Canada
Tell us why you would like to come to Canada and we will provide you with the requirements to enter Canada that apply to your personal situation.
When you enter Canada, a CBSA officer may ask to see your passport and a valid visa, if one is necessary. If you are a citizen of the United States, you do not need a passport to enter Canada. However, you should carry proof of your citizenship, such as a birth certificate, certificate of citizenship or naturalization, as well as photo identification. If you are a permanent resident of Canada or the U.S, you should bring your Permanent Resident Card with you.
Parents who share custody of their children should carry copies of the legal custody documents. It is also recommended that they have a consent letter from the other custodial parent to take the child on a trip out of the country. The parents’ full name, address and telephone number should be included in the consent letter.
When travelling with a group of vehicles, parents or guardians should arrive at the border in the same vehicle as the children.
Adults who are not parents or guardians should have written permission from the parents or guardians to supervise the children. The consent letter should include addresses and telephone numbers where the parents or guardian can be reached.
CBSA officers watch for missing children, and may ask detailed questions about the children who are travelling with you.
People can be denied a visa, refused admission or removed from Canada for a number of reasons.