Canada recommends Canadian citizens present their Canadian passport for entry, although several other forms of identification are accepted, including a Canadian birth certificate and driver's license or NEXUS card. U.S. citizens also don't necessarily need a passport, but the CBSA recommends they carry proof of citizenship. Other citizens may need either a passport or a passport and a visa (check the list for visa requirements in the Resources section). Speed up the border-crossing process by having your identification materials readily available (not packed in your luggage).
Parents who share custody of a child need to carry copies of documents proving legal custody. The CBSA also recommends the parent have a letter from the other custodial parent to show the trip is authorized. Include the other parent's full name, address and telephone number in the authorization letter. If you're traveling with children and you're not the parent, you will need permission letters signed by the parents of each child. The CBSA continually watches for missing children; be prepared to be questioned if you're traveling with a child.
Travelers, whether for work or tourism, need to prove they can financially support their visit. You may have to show you can pay for your trip and afford your return travel by presenting pay stubs, proof of travelers' checks, bank statements or proof of employment. When you discuss this information with the immigration officer, the CBSA advises that you will also need to convince the officer you will leave the country at the end of your visit.
The CBSA requires some visitors who plan to stay in Canada for more than six months to provide proof of a medical exam. You must provide the medical information if you visited or lived in certain countries for six or more months during the preceding year. Check the list of countries with the corresponding link in the Resources section.
