Since January 2007, all U.S. citizens must display a passport when crossing into Canada. There is one notable exception: states near the border, including Michigan, New York, Vermont and Washington, issue enhanced driver's licenses that allow you to cross the border by land or sea without a passport. Before you leave for your trip, fill out your passport's emergency information page and make a copy to leave with an emergency contact. If you lose your passport, having a copy will help expedite the process of recovering it. Permanent U.S. residents who are not citizens should show border patrol an alien registration receipt card (green card), while naturalized U.S. citizens should show their naturalization certificate along with a passport.
Once you arrive at the border, you will need to show your passport or other approved documentation to a Canadian border patrol agent. You should keep these documents close at hand rather than stow them in your luggage. The border patrol agent will likely ask you questions regarding the nature of your trip, your destination and the length of your stay. They may inspect your luggage and vehicle if you travel by car. You'll go through a similar process with U.S. border patrol when you return, and you'll have to declare any purchases made in Canada being carried back with you.
Keep in mind several things when traveling with minors, as they require unique documentation. Minors 16 and older need to present a passport or Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative document. Kids under 15 can present a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. If you are traveling with a minor and you are not their parent or legal guardian, you will need to show a permission letter written by their guardian. The letter will need to be notarized and include the guardian's phone number and address. If you are a parent sharing custody of a child, you will need to show a permission letter from the other parent and a copy of the custody order.
Travelers who have been convicted of a crime, including driving while under the influence or intoxicated, may be denied entry into Canada. You should prepare in advance by applying for what's called "rehabilitation" or obtain a foreign pardon from Canada. You should contact Canadian border patrol well in advance of your trip to make sure you have everything you need to cross.
