Travel Documents for Entering the United States

As of January 31, 2008, the United States will require all travellers to present documents to enter the U.S.

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is a U.S. law that will require all travellers, including U.S. and Canadian citizens, to present a valid passport or other secure document when travelling to the United States from within the western hemisphere. The new document requirements were implemented for air travellers to the United States in January 2007. Document requirements have not yet been implemented for those seeking to enter the United States at land or sea ports of entry.

Attention Canadian citizens traveling to the United States by land or water

As of January 31, 2008, if you travel to the U.S. by land or water, a U.S. law will require you to present:

• a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's licence;

AND

• a birth certificate or a citizenship card;

OR

• A valid passport;

OR

• A NEXUS or a Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card;

OR

• For those 18 and under, a birth certificate.

Canadian citizens flying to or through the U.S. must present a valid Canadian passport.

Air Canadian citizens flying to or through the United States must present one of the following documents to enter the United States by air:

• A valid Canadian passport; or

• A valid NEXUS card when used at a NEXUS kiosk at participating airports.

This requirement applies to all travellers, regardless of age, including children. Canadian citizens intending to fly to the United States should apply for a passport, keep it up to date and carry it with them when travelling.

The NEXUS program offers a simplified and expedited border clearance process to low-risk, pre-approved travellers.