New Entry Requirements to the United States

Whether you are resident in the United States or will transit the United States on your way to Canada or other destinations, it is important that you and your family members are aware of new requirements for Canadian travellers under the Western Hemisphere Travel.

Air Travel

As of January 23, 2007, the United States' Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) will require Canadian citizens to present one of the following documents when entering or transiting the United States by air:

• A valid Canadian passport;
• A NEXUS Air card when used at a NEXUS Air kiosk; or

Canadians entering or transiting the United States by air without the required documentation will likely be referred for secondary screening, where U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers will evaluate any evidence of citizenship and identity. As a result, Canadians without the required documentation may be prevented from boarding their flights. Delays and unexpected financial expenses may also occur. Travellers should obtain the appropriate required documentation before leaving Canada.

Land and Sea Travel

The implementation of these measures for all land and sea travel to the United States will come into effect as early as January 1, 2008, and no later than June 1, 2009. The exact date of implementation will depend on when the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security meet certain conditions set out by the United States Congress on technology, infrastructure, and training for border officers.

The Government of Canada continues to recommend that Canadians carry a valid Canadian passport for all visits to the United States. Please note that Canadians are not required to have Machine Readable Passports to enter the United States, even if the passport was issued abroad. Canada is not a participant in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program.