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.
People Also Ask
Taking a road trip from the U.S. to Canada, or simply arriving by car, requires crossing the border at one of the 24 official locations. Americans will need to present a valid U.S. passport or other acceptable form of identification upon arrival to the country.
Q: Do I need a passport if I have a REAL ID? If you are traveling internationally you will still need your passport. If you are traveling domestically, you will only need one valid form of identification – either your REAL ID or another acceptable alternative such as a passport, not both.
Canada requires proof of citizenship or resident status to enter the country under §§14(3) and 14(4) of the Passport and Travel Documents section of the Immigration Regulations of Canada (enclosed). A birth certificate is one form of proof.
U.S. citizens must present a valid U.S. passport book or card, in addition to an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM) issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM). Travelers should be sure to enter Mexico with valid proof of automobile registration, even if remaining in the border zone.
Answer: You need a valid passport or travel document to travel to Canada by car, train, bus or boat. If you decide to fly to a Canadian airport instead, you'll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
Submit your customs and immigration declaration online using Advance Declaration up to 72 hours before you arrive in Canada. If you choose not to submit your declaration in advance, you can complete it at an airport kiosk or eGate.
If you plan to cross into Canada via a land border, however, a qualifying enhanced license can work as long as you do not have a DUI arrest in your past. Consequently, Americans with an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) who wish to enter Canada by vehicle are often able to do so without a passport.
Can unvaccinated people travel to Canada? As of Oct.1, 2022, you can travel to Canada unvaccinated as travel restrictions have been lifted. » Learn more: TSA PreCheck or Global Entry — Which is right for you?
Some U.S. states offer Enhanced Driver's Licenses, which contain additional security features and can be used in place of a passport for travel to Canada by car. Enhanced Driver's Licenses are available in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington.