Can you travel internationally from Canada without passport?

For Canadian citizens Always carry a valid Canadian passport when you travel outside Canada.



Generally, no, you cannot travel internationally from Canada without a passport in 2026, with one major exception for U.S. travel. For all overseas destinations (Europe, Asia, etc.), a valid passport is the only universally accepted identification for air travel. However, for Canadian citizens traveling to the United States, you can use a NEXUS card instead of a passport when traveling by air, land, or sea, provided you are a pre-approved member of the program. If you are traveling by land or water only (not air) between Canada and the U.S., you may also use an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or a FAST card. For all other international "non-U.S." travel, or for permanent residents of Canada, a valid passport from your country of citizenship remains mandatory. It is a high-value "pro-tip" to always carry your passport regardless, as it is the only document that guarantees entry back into Canada without delays at immigration.

People Also Ask

Canadian citizens should always carry a valid Canadian passport when travelling outside Canada.

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Yes, Americans need a passport to go to Canada, or an appropriate alternative document.

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All travelers must have a passport book for international air travel. Please note that hospital-issued birth certificates, voter registration cards, and affidavits cannot be used. If you were not born in the United States, you can use your original Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship.

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Yes, Canadian citizens need a visa.

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With two exceptions, U.S. citizens were not required to have a passport for travel abroad until 1941. Passports were required for a short time during the Civil War (August 19, 1861–March 17, 1862) and during World War I (May 22, 1918–1921). After World War II began, passports became mandatory for all U.S. travelers.

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A secure document is a passport, U.S. permanent resident card, or Stateless travel document, Re-Entry Permit, NEXUS card, U.S Merchant Mariner Card, military ID or emergency travel document issued by an embassy or consulate. U.S. passport cards are not valid for air travel outside the United States.

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Entry into Canada: Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry proof of citizenship and identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens. Children under 16 only need proof of U.S. citizenship.

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In actual fact, you can be absent from Canada as long as you want. The Canadian government recognizes that citizens may travel extensively, work or study abroad. You will always maintain your Canadian citizenship. What absentia may affect is your Canadian health care coverage and income tax.

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