Requirements for visitors arriving into Canada from the United Statesby air are different than those for visitors arriving by sea or land. Proper identification is essential for any mode of travel. Furthermore, those entering Canada by air may be asked to show their airline ticket; those entering by any means may have to show sufficient funds to pay for their stay (usually $300, though this varies by province).
Americans flying into Canada must possess a U.S. passport; this is the only form of ID that can be used for air travel. Those entering Canada by sea or land must present a U.S. passport, a passport card (a wallet-sized document used for travel between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean only), or either an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced ID card (specially-issued U.S. ID that acts as proof of citizenship to cross from Mexico or Canada into the U.S. by land or sea, available in the U.S. only in select states).
In addition to the required identification, a valid Motor Vehicles Registration is required for every car driving into Canada. If the car is borrowed from someone not taking the trip, written permission to drive over the border signed by the owner must be provided if asked for. For rental cars, a rental agreement stating permission by the company to take the vehicle over the border is required. Customs officials are wary of stolen cars and those trying to avoid paying duties for recently purchased cars.
Customs officials have the right to search any car crossing the border at their discretion.
Visitors crossing from the U.S. may bring with them specific quantities of tobacco if they are over eighteen years-old (one carton of cigarettes, 50 cigars or 14 ounces of rolling tobacco), liquor, wine (one bottle) or beer (four six-packs) if they are of legal age for alcohol consumption for that province, and as long as it is for personal consumption. All natural items, such as meat, poultry products and fruit must also be declared prior to entering the country. In addition, gifts can be transported over the border as long as the value of each does not exceed C$60; otherwise, a duty fee must be paid.
A copy of a legal custody document is required for parents who share custody of a child being transported into Canada. A letter from the other parent authorizing the trip across the border will strengthen this documentation and should include the other parent's name, address and telephone number.
Non-parent guardians must present written permission from the parent(s), including contact information; when caravanning, the parents or guardians of children should travel in the same car as the children for ease of identification.
Puppies, kittens and ferrets under 3 months of age require no documentation, though the owner must submit them for inspection by a veterinarian should they appear unhealthy. To prevent border crossing delays, have documented proof of the pet's age if possible.
Accompanied guide dogs can cross the border without restrictions.
Each puppy, kitten and ferret over 3 months of age requires documentation by a veterinarian certifying that he/she is healthy. Each document must identify the animal by specific breed and coloration, including any distinctive marks, as well as the pet's age and gender and must certify a vaccination for rabies within three years of transport.
