Enhanced security requirements have added complexities to both air travel and border crossings, especially into Canada. Travelers not only need to know baggage rules but also the documentation required to enter a foreign country and, more importantly, to return home. To avoid disagreeable and embarrassing travel adventures, understand the rules before starting the trip.
In the past, travel between the United States and Canada was so relaxed that it was difficult to believe that Canada is a foreign country. The only documentation required to cross the border was proof of citizenship, which may have been as simple as a driver’s license or a birth certificate.
The terrorist attacks on the U.S. on Sept. 11, 2001, forced many security changes. Domestic and international air travel has been particularly impacted by heightened security, making it more difficult to travel to Canada.
The original intent of the WHTI was to require all air travelers to present a valid passport to enter or re-enter the United States on Jan. 23, 2007; however, due to the unprecedented number of passport applications, the effective date was moved to Sept. 30, 2007. The passport requirement impacts air travel to Canada in two ways:
A Canada Customs Declaration Card, which will suffice for up to four family members living at the same address, must also be presented for entry into Canada. The form asks the purpose of the trip and what items are being brought into Canada. This form will normally be provided on the flight prior to arrival at the Canadian airport. Forms are also available at all Canadian international airports at locations close to the immigration inspection area.
After passing through Canadian Customs and Immigration, people boarding flights to destinations within Canada will need to present a government-issued photo ID, which can be a driver’s license or passport.
On June 1, 2009, security was tightened at all land and sea border crossings, eliminating birth certificates and normal driver’s licenses as acceptable travel documents. Passport Cards (a new, limited-use travel document for cross-border travelers) and Enhanced Drivers Licenses (currently issued by a few states bordering Canada) are allowed in lieu of passports at land and sea crossing sites. Although travelers intending to drive to Canada and fly back will be allowed to cross the border utilizing the alternate documents, a valid passport will be required to board a commercial aircraft for the return flight.
