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Current Issues Categories Travel Documentation Category
Last Updated: November 13, 2007 16:32 EST Still Valid: November 15, 2007 20:41 EST Originally Posted: October 12, 2006 11:07 EDT
New Entry Requirements to the United States - travel documentation
The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is a U.S. law requiring all travellers, including Canadians, to carry a passport or other appropriate secure documentation when travelling to the United States. Land and Sea Travel As of January 31, 2008, the WHTI will require Canadian citizens entering the United States by land or sea to present : a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's licence; AND a birth certificate or a citizenship card; OR For youth under 16, a birth certificate; OR A valid Canadian passport. Air Travel Since January 23, 2007, the WHTI requires Canadian citizens entering or transiting the United States by air to present : A valid Canadian passport; OR A NEXUS card when used at a NEXUS kiosk This requirement applies to all Canadian citizens, regardless of age, including children. Canadians should obtain the appropriate required documentation before leaving Canada, keep this documentation up to date and carry it with them when travelling. Further Information and Assistance The Government of Canada continues to recommend that Canadians carry a valid Canadian passport when visiting all destinations abroad, including the United States. A passport is the only universally accepted identification document, and it proves that you have a right to return to Canada. Canadians are not required to have Machine Readable Passports to enter the U.S., even if the passport was issued abroad. Canada is not a participant in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. Canadians who are permanent residents of the United States, must comply with special entry requirements. For more information, see the U.S. Department of State Web site. Passport Canada is experiencing a sharp volume increase in passport applications in all of its offices, by mail and through its receiving agents. More information is available from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Web site. In case of WHTI-related problems abroad, please contact the nearest Canadian Government Office for advice and assistance. For advice on travel to the United States, see our Travel Report.