Traveling to Canada from the U.S.? 

Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry both proof of citizenship and proof of identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens. If U.S. citizen travelers to Canada do not have a passport, passport card or approved alternate document such as a NEXUS card, they must show a government-issued photo ID (e.g. Driver’s License) and proof of U.S. citizenship such as a U.S. birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or expired U.S. passport. However, to return to the United States, a valid passport will be required. For complete information on requirements needed to enter Canada from the U.S. and to return to the U.S., visit the Canada Border Services Agency at http://www.cbsa.gc.ca/.

Traveling to Canada from Outside the U.S.?

International visitors to Canada (not U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents) must carry a valid passport and, if required, a visa. Visit the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website, http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/visas.asp, for a complete list of countries whose citizens require visas to enter Canada.

All other visitors should contact their Canadian embassy or consulate to learn what documents are required. Contact information for Canadian embassies around the world can be found at the Foreign Affairs Canada website, http://www.international.gc.ca/ciw-cdm/embassies-ambassades.aspx?lang=eng.

***Important Information to know before you arrive***

Regardless if you plan to enter for a short visit or seek citizenship or immigration, some people are inadmissible-they are not allowed to come to Canada. Several things can prevent you from entering Canada including criminal convictions, security issues or health reasons. Find out more about inadmissibility.