As of today, do I need a passport to enter Canada from the U.S.?

Question

I know there have been many changes with international travel, but I am reading conflicting things online as to whether or not, as an American, I need a passport to enter Canada by land. I know the requirements are different by air and sea. I've read that all I need is a birth certificate and driver's license, but I am skeptical. Also, what would my children need? They are 9, 5 and 1.

Answer 1

You do not need your passport to enter canada but to get back into the US you need a passport...trust me...

Answer 2

All you need is your government issued photo ID such as your driver's license and your birth certificate to prove citizenship.  The requirement for a passport when travelling by land is now set for summer of 2009, so you are ok until then.

For your children you will need their birth certificates.  However, if both parents are named on their birth certificates, and both parents are not travelling, you will also need a letter, preferably notarized, signed by the other parent giving you permission to take the children out of the country.  The letter should give the contact information for that parent, and indicate where you are going in Canada, and how long you will be there.  If there has been a divorce or separation and you have sole custody, you will need the paper work to prove that.  It would be a good idea if the other parent is available by phone when you are crossing the border in case the border officials want to call and make sure everything is ok.  Officials on both sides of the border are very careful about minors travelling if both parents are not with them.

Answer 3

The problem is not what you need to enter Canada, but what you need to return to the US. If you're flying or on a ship, you need a passport. (The airline and cruise line won't accept you as a passenger with one.)

If you are driving, you can still cross back with two pieces of photo ID (that's government issued). That will soon change.

One of the challenges is the children. Is their mother travelling with you? If not, you may need a notorized letter from her saying you are entitled to travel with the children out of the country. (People are increasingly aware of parental kidnapping.)

Answer 4

I live about an hour from the border and was there not too long ago.  Just take your driver's license and birth certificate and you should be fine.  I'm not sure about the kids.  When I went there in elementary school we had to take our birth certificates.  I've heard they are considering a new license that doubles as a passport for Canada only (at least in NY).

Answer 5

By land, no.  You'll need government ID (driver's license) and proof of citizenship (birth certificate).  

Look here for confirmation and further information:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbp...

Answer 6

The link below is from the Canada Border Services Agency, but if you read you will see it applies to both Canadians and Americans. The joint agencies agreed to extend the passport deadline to June 2009.

As for your children, listen to Imaka. She has the right info for you. Due to cases where a divorce or separation was not "amicable" and  kids are involved, the border agents tend to be more strict about making sure those are your kids and they have both parents consent to come into Canada.