1. INTRODUCTION
Section 8 of this Travel Report has been updated.For more information on FLORIDA, GUAM, HAWAII, the NORTHERN MARIANAS, PUERTO RICO and the VIRGIN ISLANDS, please see Section 17, below.
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2. ATTENTION
For more information on new entry requirements to the United States as of January 23, 2007, please see our Current Issue.
The United States Government threat level for all domestic and international flights remains High (Orange). New security screening procedures, including a ban on liquids and gels in carry-on baggage, are in effect at all U.S. airports. The country threat level and the threat level in other sectors remains at Yellow (Elevated).
An elevated condition is declared when there is a significant risk of terrorist attacks. These classification decisions are based upon a number of factors including a review of the intelligence and assessment of threats. Further information on the U.S. Threat Condition designation and new security measures can be found on the U.S. Homeland Security and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Web sites.
Travel to coastal areas of Louisiana affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita remains difficult, due to catastrophic damage to property, infrastructure, transportation, and communication systems.
Canadians should check conditions before travelling to any affected area outside the downtown business district and the French Quarter of New Orleans. They should also inform friends and family of their current whereabouts. Canadians residing in or travelling to the region should continue to follow the advice of local authorities and contact their travel agent or tour operator to determine local travel conditions.
The health and security situation in most of New Orleans remains difficult. Travel and accommodations are limited. The provision of essential services continues to be problematic and potentially hazardous in some areas outside the French Quarter and downtown.
Parts of Mississippi were strongly impacted by Hurricane Katrina. As a result, some hotels, restaurants, casinos, shops, historical sites, and other tourist attractions may not be in operation. In some areas, services such as electricity, gas and sewage are limited. However, most areas of the state are open for business. You should call the establishments you plan to visit ahead of time to make sure they can accommodate you.
For more information, see the Web site of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians are encouraged to register with the responsible Canadian government office during the hurricane season, which runs from June 1st to November 30th. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form.
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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY
Criminal occurrences are frequent in many US cities, but are generally concentrated in areas that travellers are unlikely to visit. Canadians, however, should remain vigilant and alert to their surroundings. Full cooperation is recommended when stopped by police. Street crime can spill over into commercial, hotel, and entertainment areas. Riots occasionally occur; these are usually confined to the poorer districts of major cities, but the violence can spread to central commercial and hotel areas.
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4. LOCAL TRAVEL
a) Automobile and Automobile Insurance
If you are entering the United States by personal automobile, you should check with your insurance agent to verify that your existing coverage is valid or sufficient for the U.S. areas you will be visiting and for the duration of your visit. If you are going to remain in a specific location in the United States for a considerable period of time, you should verify with the local authorities that your vehicle registration and driver's licence will remain valid.Many states have mandatory automobile insurance requirements, and many require motorists to carry appropriate proof of insurance. Each state’s motor vehicles department can give you more specific information. The American Automobile Association (AAA) and the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) can provide detailed information to their members.If you are in the United States and wish to drive to Mexico in your personal vehicle, you may need to purchase liability insurance as well as additional auto insurance. Contact your insurance agent and the local Mexican tourist office for further information. See our Travel Report on Mexico.
b) Hitchhikers
Never cross the border with a hitchhiker or as a hitchhiker. Though you may not be carrying anything illegal, your companions might be and you could be implicated.
Be equally careful about who and what you carry in your vehicle. As the driver, you could be held responsible for the misdeeds of your passengers, even if committed without your knowledge or involvement.
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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
a) Hurricane season
In the southeastern states, the hurricane season extends from June to the end of November. Flooding and mudslides can occur during this period. Transportation, utilities, emergency and medical care, as well as food, fuel, and water supplies, may be disrupted. Visit the Web site of the National Hurricane Center for information on weather conditions.
Check with your travel agent or tour operator to confirm your travel plans prior to departure.
b) Volcanoes and earthquakes
Some volcanoes in the United States are active. Augustine Volcano, located about 290 km from Anchorage, AK, showed increased volcanic activity and eruptions in January 2006 (http://www.avo.alaska.edu/index.php). Seismic activity also occurs in the United States. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the nearest Canadian government office (see below) in the event of an emergency.
Contact the closest Canadian Embassy or Consulate (see section 7 below) if you require assistance in the event of a natural disaster.
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6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.Canadian citizenship confers no immunity, special protection or rights to preferential treatment.
Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.
The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.
A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence or, in some states, a death sentence. The jail sentence will be served in local prisons. Canada and the United States do however have a treaty which permits a Canadian imprisoned in the United States to request a transfer to Canada to complete the sentence in a Canadian prison. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and American authorities.
a) Illegal Drugs and Prescription Drugs
The US Zero Tolerance Policy imposes severe penalties for the possession of even a small amount of an illegal drug. Even prescription drugs and syringes used for legitimate medical purposes come under intense scrutiny. Never carry a package or luggage for someone else unless you have been able to verify the contents completely.
For more information, check the “Drugs and Travel” section of the Consular Affairs Web site or our publication Drugs and Travel: Why They Don't Mix.
b) What you can bring into the U.S.
Very specific US regulations govern what you may bring into the United States. A non-resident may bring in merchandise worth up to US$200 free of duty for personal or household use. On visits of 72 hours or more, you may carry an additional US$100 worth of merchandise free of duty as gifts for other people. However, there are restrictions. Further information can be obtained by calling the US Customs and Border Protection Web site.
c) Travel to Cuba
People residing in the United States, including Canadian citizens, are subject to US law regarding travel to Cuba. According to US law, they are prohibited from spending money (in any currency) relating to Cuban travel unless they are licensed by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Furthermore, they can be fined if they travel to Cuba and get caught without a licence from the OFAC. For more information about the Cuban sanctions program, contact the OFAC, US Department of the Treasury, at (202) 622-2520 (Washington, D.C.) or (305) 810-5140 (Miami). The OFAC also operates a free automated fax-on-demand service that can be accessed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at (202) 622-0077.
d) Pets
When examined at a port of entry, cats and dogs must show no signs of diseases communicable to humans. If there is evidence of poor animal health, an examination by a licensed veterinarian might be required, at the expense of the owner. Vaccination against rabies is not required for cats. Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before entry, except for puppies under three months of age. Other animals are also subject to controls. Further information may be obtained from the US Customs and Border Protection Web site.
When you return to Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency will require proof of vaccination against rabies for all cats and dogs over three months of age. If you do not have this proof, inspectors can provide you with a conditional release so that you can present the proper documentation at a later date, at a cost of about $60. It is therefore advisable to have your cat or dog vaccinated before leaving Canada. For detailed information, contact the Canadian food Inspection Agency.
e) Taxation Status
If you are living or travelling in the United States but maintain residential ties in Canada, you are usually considered a factual resident of Canada for taxation purposes. However, many factors are taken into account in determining your status for income tax purposes, so you should review your situation with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to avoid surprises. The CRA publication Canadian Residents Going Down South provides information for individuals.
If you are a Canadian resident spending part of the year in the United States, you could be considered either a resident alien or a non-resident alien for U.S. taxation purposes. Resident aliens are generally taxed in the United States on income from all sources worldwide; non-resident aliens are generally taxed in the United States only on income from U.S. sources. It is important, therefore, for you to determine your status by contacting the U.S. authorities.
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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:
United States - WASHINGTON, Embassy of Canada
Address: 501 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001, U.S.A.
Tel.: (202) 682-1740
Fax: (202) 682-7738
E-mail: wshdc@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.washington.gc.ca
Consular district: Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia
United States - ATLANTA, Consulate General of Canada
Address: 1175 Peachtree Street N.E., 100 Colony Square, Suite 1700, Atlanta, Georgia 30361-6205, U.S.A.
Tel.: (404) 532-2000
Fax: (404) 532-2050
E-mail: atnta@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.atlanta.gc.ca
Consular district: Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee
United States - BOSTON, Consulate General of Canada
Address: 3 Copley Place, Suite 400, Boston, Massachusetts 02116, U.S.A.
Tel.: (617) 262-3760
Fax: (617) 262-3415
E-mail: bostn@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.boston.gc.ca
Consular district: Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont
United States - BUFFALO, Consulate General of Canada
Address: 1 HSBC Centre, Suite 3000, Buffalo, New York 14203-2884, U.S.A.
Tel.: (716) 858-9500
Fax: (716) 852-4340
E-mail: bfalo@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.buffalo.gc.ca
Consular district: West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Western and Upstate New York
United States - CHICAGO, Consulate General of Canada
Address: Two Prudential Plaza, 180 North Stetson Avenue, Suite 2400, Chicago, Illinois 60601, U.S.A.
Tel.: (312) 616-1860
Fax: (312) 616-1877
E-mail: chcgo@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.chicago.gc.ca
Consular district: Illinois (including Bettendorf and Davenport, Iowa), Indiana (Counties of Jasper, Lake, Laporte, Newton, Porter), Missouri, Wisconsin
United States - DALLAS, Consulate General of Canada
Address: St. Paul Place, 750 North St. Paul Street, Suite 1700, Dallas, Texas 75201-3247, U.S.A.
Tel.: (214) 922-9806
Fax: (214) 922-9815
E-mail: dalas@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.dallas.gc.ca
Consular district: Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas
United States - DENVER, Consulate General of Canada
Address: 1625 Broadway, Suite 2600, Denver, Colorado, 80202, U.S.A.
Tel.: (303) 626-0640
Fax: (303) 572-1158
E-mail: denvr-g@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.denver.gc.ca
Consular district: Colorado, Montana, Utah, Wyoming
United States - DETROIT, Consulate General of Canada
Address: 600 Renaissance Center, Suite 1100, Detroit, Michigan 48243-1798, U.S.A.
Tel.: (313) 446-4747
Fax: (313) 567-2164
E-mail: dtrot@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.detroit.gc.ca
Consular district: Indiana (excluding counties of Jasper,Lake, LaPorte, Newton, Porter), Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio
United States - HONOLULU, Australian Consulate General
Address: Penthouse Suite, 1000 Bishop Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813-4299, U.S.A.
Tel.: (808) 524-5050/5054
Fax: (808) 531-5142
United States - LOS ANGELES, Consulate General of Canada
Address: 550 South Hope Street, 9th Floor, Los Angeles, California 90071-2327, U.S.A.
Tel.: (213) 346-2700
Fax: (213) 620-8827
E-mail: lngls@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.losangeles.gc.ca
Consular district: Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico
United States - MIAMI, Consulate General of Canada
Address: 200 South Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 1600, Miami, Florida 33131, U.S.A.
Tel.: (305) 579-1600
Fax: (305) 374-6774
E-mail: miami@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.miami.gc.ca
Consular district: Florida, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands
United States - MINNEAPOLIS, Consulate General of Canada
Address: 701 Fourth Avenue South, Suite 900, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55415-1899, U.S.A.
Tel.: (612) 333-4641
Fax: (612) 332-4061
E-mail: mnpls@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.minneapolis.gc.ca
Consular district: Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota
United States - NEW YORK, Consulate General of Canada
Address: 1251 Avenue of the Americas, Concourse Level, New York, New York 10020-1175, U.S.A.
Tel.: (212) 596-1628
Fax: (212) 596-1666/1790
E-mail: cngny@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.newyork.gc.ca
Consular district: Bermuda, Connecticut, New Jersey, South and Eastern New York
United States - PUERTO RICO, Consulate of Canada
Address: Home Mortgage Plaza, 268 Ponce de Leon, Suite 802, San Juan (Hato Rey), Puerto Rico 00918, U.S.A.
Tel.: (787) 759-6629
Fax: (787) 294-1205
United States - SAN FRANCISCO, Consulate General of Canada
Address: 580 California Street, 14th Floor, San Francisco, California 94104, U.S.A.
Tel.: (415) 834-3180
Fax: (415) 834-3189
E-mail: sfran@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.sanfrancisco.gc.ca
Consular district: Northern California, Hawaii, Guam
United States - SEATTLE, Consulate General of Canada
Address: 1501 4th Ave, Suite 600Seattle, Washington 98101, U.S.A.
Tel.: (206) 443-1777
Fax: (206) 443-9662
E-mail: seatl@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.seattle.gc.ca
Consular district: Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington
For emergency assistance after hours, call the closest Canadian Embassy or Consulate and follow the instructions. You may also call the Department in Ottawa toll-free at 1 888 949-9993 (1-866-600-0184 from Puerto Rico), or use the services offered by Canada Direct.
Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from the United States is 1 800 555-1111, where a Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1 800 561-8868 or visit the Canada Direct Web site.
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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
For more information on new entry requirements to the United States as of January 23, 2007, please see our Current Issue.
The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the authorities of the United States of America and, to the best of our knowledge, was valid on May 17, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.
It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.
Foreign Affairs Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of the United States of America and its consulates, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.
a) Travel with or by Children
Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.
U.S. and Canadian authorities as well as transportation companies are increasingly vigilant in questioning persons travelling with children. If you are planning to travel to the United States with a child, you should carry documentation proving your custodial rights, especially for very young children. If a person younger than 18 is travelling to the United States alone or with only one parent or another adult, a certified consent letter documentation proving that the trip is permitted by both parents should be carried.
If there is a possibility of a custody dispute developing while you are away with your child, you should talk to a Canadian lawyer before leaving home. For more information on international child abduction, consult our publication International Child Abductions: A Manual for Parents.
b) Your rights when entering the U.S.
When you are attempting to enter the U.S. (border crossing or airport) and until such time that you have been admitted or refused entry, you should be aware that under U.S. law, foreign nationals do not have the same rights as American citizens. While a determination is being made by U.S. authorities on your admissibility, you could be held for an extended period of time. If you are deemed inadmissible, there may be delays before you are returned to your point of departure or country of nationality.
c) Providing additional information at borders
The requirements of U.S. authorities for identification upon entering the United States have become much stricter. Since October 4, 2005, travellers entering the U.S. by air or by sea are required to provide additional information, such as their address while in the U.S., including Puerto Rico. For more information on this new requirement, please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Web site.
To enter or travel through the United States, you may also be asked for evidence of residential, employment or educational ties to Canada; proof that the trip is for a legitimate purpose and is of a reasonable length; and for proof of financial support while in the United States. All carriers (noticeably airlines, but also rail and bus services) have become much stricter about requiring proof of admissibility to the United States, as a result of the heavy fines they face for carrying inadmissible passengers.
d) Passports
For more information on new entry requirements to the United States as of January 23, 2007, please see our Current Issue.
The most important formality on entering the United States is providing proof of your Canadian citizenship. Your Canadian passport is the best document to prove your Canadian citizenship and your right to return to Canada.
Since October 2004, the U.S. Visa Waiver Program requires visitors from various countries to have Machine Readable Passports to enter the U.S. This requirement does not apply to Canadian citizens even if the passport is issued abroad.
Non-citizen permanent residents of Canada (and their children) as well as a list of other people (i.e. foreign government officials, officials and employees of international organizations, treaty traders and investors, fiancé/es and children of fiancé/es) require a non-immigrant visa to enter the United States. Additional information is available from Passport Canada. The U.S. Customs & Border Protection agency of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security also provides information.
e) Dual Nationality
Some Canadians may have U.S. as well as Canadian citizenship through birth in the United States or through naturalization or descent. Although this is not likely to create problems when you travel to the United States, it is wise for you to understand your status under U.S. law. The Dual Citizenship section of the American Citizen Information Services Web site states, "Most U.S. citizens, including dual nationals, must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the United States." Before travelling to the United States, confirm with the U.S. consulate in your area whether this statement applies to you. Also, ensure that you have and carry with you to the United States your valid Canadian passport as proof of your Canadian citizenship and, thus, your right to re-enter Canada. For information on dual citizenship, consult the "Dual Citizenship" section of the American Citizen Information Services Web site or contact the U.S. consulate serving your area in Canada.
f) Registered Indian Status (Jay Treaty)If you have Registered Indian Status in Canada, you may qualify for special U.S. Immigration procedures, derived from the Jay Treaty of 1794, that enable you to live and work in the United States without undergoing the normal immigration process. It is important to note that the presentation of a Canadian Certificate of Indian Status (Form 1A-1395) alone may not be sufficient to meet the entry requirements. U.S. law requires that applicants possess at least 50 percent North American Indian blood to meet the entitlement. Inspectors may therefore request additional proof of the requisite blood quantum, such as band records, birth certificates and other documents that establish your percentage of North American Indian blood.
g) Canadian Retirees/Snowbirds
A maximum admission period of six months is expected to be the norm for Canadian retirees seeking to winter in warmer climates. Those who wish to stay longer may apply for an extension once they are in the United States.
h) Preclearance
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have preclearance facilities at eight Canadian airports: Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal-Trudeau and Halifax. This enables you and your luggage to be cleared for entry into the US at a Canadian preclearance airport instead of on arrival in the US. To allow sufficient time for the preclearance process when you are travelling to the US from these airports, you should be at the US customs and immigration desk at least two hours prior to your flight departure time.
As a traveller using US preclearance facilities at a Canadian airport, you are obligated to meet US entry requirements. You will be interviewed by a US preclearance officer. It is an offence under Canada's Preclearance Act to knowingly make a false or deceptive statement to a preclearance officer. American officials are authorized to inspect your luggage and can refuse you entry to the US. While you are in a preclearance area you are subject to Canadian law, including the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Canadian Bill of Rights, the Canadian Human Rights Act, Canada's Preclearance Act, and Canadian criminal law, including those laws governing drugs and guns. You may withdraw your request to enter the US and may leave the preclearance area at any time unless a US preclearance officer suspects on reasonable grounds that you have made a false or deceptive statement or obstructed an officer. The officer may then detain you for violations of Canadian law.
i) Criminal Record
If you have a criminal record, no matter how minor or how long ago the offence, you may be refused entry to the United States. There may also be problems in travelling through U.S. airport facilities. A pardon for an offence issued by Canadian authorities is not recognized under U.S. law, for purposes of entry into the United States. If you have a criminal record, you should contact one of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) ports of entry well in advance of travel to the United States. If you are ineligible to enter the United States, you may apply for a waiver of ineligibility. This will involve completing Form I-192, "Advance Permission to Enter the United States." There is a fee and it may take several months to process your application. Waiver application forms are available from any port of entry to the United States, any pre-clearance site in Canada, the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa, or one of the U.S. consulates in Canada.
U.S. ports of entry are computerized and connected to a centralized database. Information is readily available on criminal convictions in both Canada and the United States. Even though you may have entered the United States without hindrance in the past, you could run into difficulty if your record shows a criminal conviction or a previous denial of entry. Attempting to gain entry without a waiver could result in several weeks of detention at a USCIS facility.
If you left the United States to avoid military service during the Vietnam War and have not since regularized your status, there might be an outstanding warrant for your arrest or you might be ineligible for U.S. entry. If in doubt, check with the nearest USCIS port of entry. If you need information about regularizing your status with the U.S. military, you can call the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa at 1 800 283-4356 or (613) 238-5335 and select "Defence Attaché's Office" from the voice mail menu.
j) Expedited Removal
Canadians travelling to the United States should note that U.S. Immigration's "expedited removal" procedure allows an Immigration agent, with the concurrence of a supervisor, to bar non-citizens from the United States for five years if, in their judgment, the individuals presented false documentation or misrepresented themselves. Canadians should be aware that lying to a border official is a serious offence. Expedited removal is part of comprehensive reforms intended to control illegal immigration. There is no formal appeal process under expedited removal, but if you believe the law has been misapplied in your case, you can request a supervisory review by writing to the USCIS district director responsible for the port of entry where the decision was made. Cases of possible misapplication should also be brought to the attention of the Consular Affairs Bureau of the Department at 1 800 267-6788 or (613) 944-6788 (in Ottawa) or to the attention of the nearest Canadian government office.
k) Boating in U.S. Waters
Canadian boaters travelling frequently to the United States in pleasure craft smaller than five net tons, for visits of less than 72 hours, can obtain a Canadian Border Boat Landing Permit (Form I-68) from the USCIS. This permit is not mandatory but facilitates entry procedures. The form is available at: www.uscis.gov/graphics/index.htm.
l) Cruises
Many Canadians enter the United States on their way to join sea cruises to other countries. You must have a valid Canadian passport for such a trip. Some of the countries you may be visiting will not permit entry without a passport. A passport is also important to re-enter the United States at the end of the cruise. Ship authorities may retain your passport during the cruise, in accordance with their own administrative regulations and to facilitate clearance with U.S. Immigration. Passengers should obtain a receipt for their passport, and the passport should be returned at the end of the cruise.
m) Working in the U.S.
Canadians relocating for employment should contact the appropriate Canadian and U.S. agencies to ensure they are fully informed regarding their entitlement to social benefits, including pension plans, in their new jurisdiction of employment, as well as to determine if they continue to be eligible to participate in pension schemes or to claim other social benefits in Canada.Information on the North American Free Trade Agreement and entering the U.S. and Mexico under NAFTA are available at the following Web sites:Canada and the North American Free Trade AgreementCustomized Reports for Entering the U.S. and Mexico Under NAFTA
n) Studying in the U.S.Canadian students are no longer allowed to begin study in the United States without a valid Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility). These are issued by the U.S. school and sent directly to the applicant. In addition, students should have the following ready for presentation to the U.S. Immigration officer at the port of entry:
a) documentary evidence of sufficient funds to cover travel, tuition and living expenses in the United States;
b) evidence that the applicant has a residence outside the United States and has no intention of abandoning it; and
c) evidence of scholastic and linguistic proficiency for the academic programs to be undertaken in the United States.
For further information about student visa requirements for the United States, please refer to the Web site of the U.S. Department of State.
o) Special Cases (HIV or AIDS)
Persons who have been diagnosed with HIV or AIDS normally need to obtain a waiver of ineligibility before they can travel to the United States. Contact the nearest office of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (U.S. Department of Homeland Security) for information on how to apply for a waiver.
If you have an unusual situation concerning entry into the United States, you should obtain authoritative information from the U.S. authorities immediately before your visit. For more information, consult the U.S. Embassy Web site or go to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection Web site.
p) Border Fees
American border officials collect a US$6 per-person fee, payable only in U.S. dollars, to issue an arrival/departure document, Form I-94. This form is distributed to Canadian citizens and landed immigrants from member countries of the Commonwealth and Ireland who are entering the United States to study or work and to visitors from other countries. The fee does not apply to Canadian citizens and landed immigrants from member countries of the Commonwealth and Ireland who are entering the United States on temporary visits for business or pleasure, or to travellers arriving in the United States by air.
q) U.S. Immigration Policy
For more information about recent changes in U.S. immigration policy, consult the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Web site.
____________________________________________
Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.
Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.
Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.
_____________________________________________INFORMATION ON THE UNITED STATES NATIONAL SECURITY ENTRY EXIT REGISTRATION SYSTEM (NSEERS)
http://www.amcits.com/nseers.asp
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9. MONEY
Canadian currency, traveller's cheques in Canadian dollars, and personal cheques drawn on Canadian banks are not widely accepted or easily negotiable in the United States. Accordingly, you should purchase traveller's cheques in U.S. dollars before you leave Canada. All major credit cards are accepted throughout the United States. There are banking machines that will accept Canadian bank cards, but these may be limited depending on your account access privileges (Interac, PLUS, etc.). Despite these difficulties, do not carry large amounts of cash.
Non-US residents generally cannot negotiate monetary bank instruments (international bank drafts, money orders, etc) without having a US bank account. To open an account, in compliance with the Department of Homeland Security regulations, applicants must have a local address, provide a valid passport, disclose their source of wealth and provide four financial institution references.
No limit is placed on the amount of money that travellers may legally take into or out of the United States. However, if on any occasion you carry more than US$10,000 in monetary instruments (such as U.S. or foreign coin, currency, traveller's cheques, money orders, and negotiable instruments or investment securities in bearer form) into or out of the United States, or if you receive more than that amount while in the United States, you must file a report (Customs Form 4790) with U.S. Customs. Failure to comply can result in civil and criminal penalties, including seizure of the currency or monetary instruments.
Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.
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10. GENERAL INFORMATION
The United States of America (capital: Washington, D.C.) is located in North America and borders Canada, Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Pacific Ocean. Tourist facilities are widely available. English is the official language. Spanish is spoken by a sizable minority.
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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.
The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.
Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.
The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.
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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
Canadian visitors to the United States should be aware that their personal medication may be subject to U.S. drug importation laws and regulations.
In general, personal importation of a 90-day (three month) supply of medication is allowed, but only if the drug is not available in the United States. U.S. Customs officials have relaxed their policy on importation of prescription drugs through the mail from Canada. However, all packages are still carefully scrutinized. For further information, please visit the Web site of the US Food and Drug Administration.
All hospitals must accept and treat emergencies, regardless of the person's ability to pay. Clients will however be charged for all services rendered. See section 16 for more information on health and travel insurance.
Red tides occur in the Gulf of Mexico, generally in the late summer or early fall. They are most common off the central and southwest coasts of Florida. They also occur, but are less common, along the southeast Atlantic coast as far north as North Carolina. Red tides are toxic algae blooms in seawater, often discolouring the water red, brown, green, or yellow. People close to shore may experience itching eyes and respiratory irritation when red tide organisms are present along a coast and winds are blowing onshore. For up-to-date information on red tides, consult the Web site http://www.floridaconservation.org/ or http://www.redtideonline.com/.
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13. RETURNING TO CANADA
Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.
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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.
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15. TRAVEL TIPS
Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.
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16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.
Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.
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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION
FLORIDA
Florida (capital: Tallahassee) is located in the southeast United States. Tourist facilities are widely available.
Attacks on tourists have decreased, but violent crime remains a serious concern. Criminals have demonstrated that they will use violence with little or no provocation. Many attacks have occurred in the Miami area, and others have taken place on rural roads and at interstate highway rest areas. Some rest areas have dusk to dawn security on site (which is indicated on the highway sign). Proceed cautiously when exiting from a freeway (including Interstate 95) into large urban centres, especially after dusk. Theft has increased, particularly from trunks of parked cars in the North Miami Beach area, South Beach and at airports. Be alert, as criminals use a variety of techniques to steal personal belongings.
The Florida Tourism Office in Toronto, 512 Duplex Avenue, Toronto, ON, M4R 2E3 (tel.: 416-485-2573/ fax: 416-485-8256) provides tourists with travel safety tips, directions, and information on accommodation. Safety tip pamphlets produced by the State of Florida's Division of Tourism and the American Automobile Association are available in Canada from various travel agencies and automobile association offices. The pamphlets may also be obtained by telephoning "Visit Florida" (tel.: 850-488-5607 or toll-free 1-888-7-FLA-USA) or by visiting the Florida reception centres located on Interstates 75 and 95, just across the state line from Georgia.
GUAM
Guam (capital: Hagatña or Agana) is a territory of the United States of America, located in the north Pacific Ocean between Hawaii and the Philippines. Tourist facilities are widely available. English, Chamorro, and Japanese are the official languages.
Guam is subject to typhoons, especially in August. The rainy season extends from July to December. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly. Guam is also located in an active seismic zone.
There is a minimum sentence of 10 years' imprisonment for the importation of narcotics and other illegal drugs.
Customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export out of Guam of items, such as fruit, vegetables, and flowers, as well as poultry, meat products, and livestock. For additional information on temporary admission, export, and customs regulations and tariffs, contact the Customs and Quarantine Agency, 1503 Central Avenue, Tiyan, Guam 96913 (country code: 671/ tel.: 475-6202/ fax: 475-6227/ Web site: www.guamjustice.net).
There is no resident Canadian government office in Guam. Canadians in Guam can obtain consular assistance and further information from the Consulate General of Canada in San Francisco (see Section 7, above).
Canadians can also obtain consular assistance and further information from the Australian Embassy in Pohnpei, Micronesia (under the Canada-Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement) at the following address:
H & E Enterprises Building, Kolonia, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia, (country code: 691/ tel.: 320-5448/ fax: 320-5449/ postal address: P.O. Box S, Kolonia, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia 96941/ e-mail: australia@mail.fm/ Web site: www.australianembassy.fm).
A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Guam. Proof of a return or onward ticket is also required. Visitors who wish to conduct business in Guam should contact U.S. customs and the U.S. Embassy or Consulates in Canada. Travellers with filming equipment should make similar arrangements.
Tourist Visa: Not required
Business Visa: Not required
Student Visa: Required
Work Visa: Required
Residency Visa: Required
HAWAII
Hawaii (capital: Honolulu, on Oahu) is an archipelago of approximately 137 islands in the north-central Pacific Ocean. The main islands are Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island (Hawaii), Molokai, and Lanai. The state's two official languages are Hawaiian and English. Tourist facilities are widely available.
There are few security or safety problems, but petty crime occurs. Ensure personal belongings are secure at all times.
Public inter-island ferries are not available, but there are cruise ships and some private ferry services. Most inter-island travel is done by air.
NORTHERN MARIANAS
The Northern Mariana Islands (capital: Saipan) are a commonwealth in political union with the United States of America, located in the north Pacific Ocean between Hawaii and the Philippines. The official language is English. Tourist facilities and services are widely available.
Most Canadian visitors to the Northern Mariana Islands do not experience problems. Exercise normal safety precautions and ensure personal belongings, passports, and other travel documents are secure at all times.
U.S. driving laws are observed. Most main roads are paved, well marked, and contain signage. There is no public bus system on Saipan, but there are shuttles that run between the major towns. Tourists can drive in the Northern Mariana Islands for 30 days using an internationally recognized driver's licence (Canadian licences fall into this category). Tourists staying longer than 30 days and long-term residents have to obtain a local licence. Travel between the islands is done by airplane. There are several daily flights between Saipan, Tinian and Rota.
The Northern Marianas are subject to typhoons, especially from August to November. Resulting damage can be severe. The rainy season extends from July to October. There are active volcanoes on the islands of Pagan and Agrihan. Volcanic activity can cause minor earthquakes and tidal waves. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.
There is no resident Canadian government office in the Northern Marianas. Canadians in the Northern Marianas can obtain consular assistance and further information from the Australian Embassy in Pohnpei, Micronesia (under the Canada-Australia Consular Services Sharing Agreement), at the following address:
Federated States of Micronesia - POHNPEI, Australian Embassy
Address: H & E Enterprises Building, Kolonia, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia
Postal Address: P.O. Box S, Kolonia, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia
Tel.: 691 320-5448
Fax: 691 320-5449
The High Commission of Canada in Canberra, Australia, has consular responsibility for the Northern Marianas. The address is as follows:
Australia - CANBERRA, High Commission of Canada
Address: Commonwealth Avenue, Canberra ACT 2600, Australia
Tel.: 61 (2) 6270-4000
Fax: 61 (2) 6270-4081
E-mail: cnbra@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.international.gc.ca/australia
For emergency assistance after hours, call the High Commission of Canada in Canberra, Australia, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.
PUERTO RICO
Puerto Rico (capital: San Juan) is located in the Caribbean, east of the Dominican Republic. It is a territory in free association with the United States. The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken.
Canadians rarely encounter safety and security problems, but normal safety precautions should be taken due to an increase in violent crime. Petty crime and robberies are prevalent. Ensure personal belongings are secure at all times.
Canadians in Puerto Rico can obtain consular assistance and further information from the the Consulate General of Canada in San Juan (see above). You may also call the Department in Ottawa toll-free at 1-866-600-0184.
VIRGIN ISLANDS
The U.S. Virgin Islands (capital: Charlotte Amalie) are located in the northeastern Caribbean, east of Puerto Rico. English is the official language.
Canadians rarely encounter security or safety problems, although normal safety precautions should be taken. Petty crime exists. Ensure your personal belongings are secure at all times.
There is no resident Canadian government office in the Virgin Islands. Canadians in the Virgin Islands can obtain consular assistance and further information from the Consulate General of Canada in Miami (see above). You may also call the Department in Ottawa toll-free at 1-866-600-0184.
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18. ANNEX
N/A
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