What do I need to know before crossing the Canadian border?

When you enter Canada, a Canada Border Services Agency officer may ask to see your passport and a valid visa, if one is necessary. If you are a citizen of the United States over the age of 16, you will need a Passport, a Passport Card or Enhanced Driver's Licence (only issued by certain states) to enter Canada.



Before crossing into Canada in 2026, you must have a valid U.S. Passport, Passport Card, or Enhanced Driver's License (EDL). Standard REAL ID cards are not sufficient for international border crossings. While COVID-19 restrictions (vaccination and testing) have remained lifted through early 2026, you should still use the ArriveCAN app to submit your mandatory customs declaration up to 72 hours before arrival to save time. Be aware of strict regulations regarding firearms (which must be declared in writing) and "prohibited" items like radar detectors or certain fresh produce. Crucially, while recreational cannabis is legal in both Canada and many U.S. states, it is strictly illegal to carry it across the border in either direction. If traveling with minors and both parents are not present, you should carry a signed, notarized letter of consent to avoid questioning regarding potential child custody issues or abduction concerns.

People Also Ask

Be prepared to answer these questions:
  • What are you bringing with you to Canada?
  • Do you have any live animals or plants with you?
  • Do you have any firearms, ammunition or fireworks with you?
  • Do you have any meat or dairy products with you?
  • Do you have any fresh fruits or vegetables with you?


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Prepare for Likely Questions From U.S. CBP Officials
  • Why are you visiting the United States? ...
  • Where will you be staying? ...
  • Who will you be visiting? ...
  • How long will you be staying in the U.S.? If you're coming in with an immigrant visa (have been approved for U.S. permanent residence), you won't likely be asked this.


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Ensure that you have proper identification for you and your family readily available. Acceptable forms of identification for entry into Canada include a passport, a NEXUS card and an enhanced driver's licence.

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If changes are required, you can edit and update your declaration prior to certification. Use of the Advance CBSA Declaration feature of ArriveCAN is entirely optional. This app supports English, French and Spanish (as per your device's language settings).

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Travellers crossing the border by land are encouraged to cross during non-peak hours such as early morning. The Monday of holiday long weekends tend to be the busiest, with longer border wait times – pick another day to cross the border if you can.

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There are no air security restrictions against putting food in your checked luggage. (For carry-on luggage, of course, you'd have to worry about the liquids restrictions.) You'd want to make sure it's well wrapped -- changes in pressure can cause things to leak and make a big mess.

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If you're arriving by land, follow the signs to the first checkpoint, also called “primary inspection.” Here, a border services officer will examine your identification and other travel documents and take your verbal declaration. Visit U.S. to Canada border wait times for estimated wait times at certain locations.

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If you are a U.S. citizen, you need only answer questions establishing your identity and citizenship, although refusing to answer routine questions about the nature and purpose of your travel could result in delay and/or further inspection.

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