For 2026 travel, the "gold standard" ID for entering Canada is a valid Passport. If you are a U.S. citizen traveling by land or sea, you can also use a U.S. Passport Card or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL). Members of the NEXUS program can use their NEXUS card at all land, air, and sea ports of entry. For air travel from the U.S. to Canada, a full passport or a NEXUS card is mandatory; a standard "REAL ID" driver's license is not sufficient for international border crossing. Permanent residents of the U.S. must present their Green Card along with their national passport. For 2026 visitors from other countries, an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) or a visitor visa is usually required in addition to a passport. It is a "pro-tip" to ensure your ID is valid for at least six months beyond your stay, as Canadian border officials may deny entry if your document is close to its expiration date.