Traveller's corner

Travelling in North America

Canadians travelling to the United States

By land or water

Canadian citizens will require a passport to enter the United States at land and marine ports of entry as of June 1, 2009.

However, as of January 31, 2008, if you travel to the United States by land or water, a United States law requires you to present:

• a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's licence
  AND a birth certificate or a citizenship card;
  OR
• for persons aged 18 and under, a birth certificate or a citizenship card only;
  OR
• a valid passport.

By air

Since January 23, 2007, the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) came into effect for air travel to the United States. The following documents are acceptable:

• A valid Canadian passport; or
• A NEXUS card when used at a NEXUS kiosk at designated airports.

The NEXUS program offers a simplified and expedited clearance process to pre-approved, low-risk travellers.

WHTI is an American endeavour that establishes new requirements for documentation to enter the . It is being implemented in stages.

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Travelling to Mexico

Although the Government of Canada recommends that Canadians travelling to any destination outside of Canada carry a valid passport, it is not mandatory to do so for travel to Mexico. To date, there has been no policy change requiring Canadians to travel with their passports to this destination. However, you must have sufficient identification to satisfy border officials of your identity and citizenship.

For travel document requirements, itis recommended that you consult:

• your travel agent or
• "the embassy or consultate of Mexico in Canada