All international travellers must carry acceptable identification and a valid visa (if necessary) when entering Canada. A passport is recommended because it is the only reliable and universally-accepted travel and identification document for the purpose of international travel.

For U.S. citizens traveling to Canada in 2026, the required documentation depends entirely on your mode of transport. If you are flying into Canada, a valid U.S. Passport is mandatory for all travelers, regardless of age. However, if you are crossing the border by land (car or bus) or sea (cruise ship or ferry), you have more flexibility. You can use a standard U.S. Passport, but you can also use a U.S. Passport Card or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL). It is vital to note that a standard "REAL ID" compliant license is not sufficient for international border crossings; only the "Enhanced" versions (currently issued by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington) are valid for land/sea entry. Trusted Traveler cards like NEXUS or SENTRI are also accepted at all ports of entry. For children under 16 traveling by land or sea, a birth certificate or naturalization certificate is usually sufficient proof of citizenship. While the EDL is a convenient and cheaper alternative for those living in border states, carrying a full passport remains the "gold standard" as it covers all possible travel scenarios and ensures a smoother return process to the United States.