The Proper Documentation – Border Crossing Requirements for Canada

Updated June 14, 2009

Millions and millions of people a year visit Niagara Falls, and of those, most certainly tens of thousands cross over the three border bridges in the Niagara Region to Canada.

Many of the tourists who travel to Canada on a daily basis are American citizens, and most do not realize what type of documentation they actually need to enter Canada as smooth and fast as possible.

Since I cross the border on almost a daily basis, I seem to think of myself as a subject matter expert. I have taken countless groups of people back and forth and have encountered things you would not even think of happening – but they happen!

The key thing to remember is have all of the documents that you think they will probably not ask for; you could be that one out of a thousand that is asked to produce a questionable document and if you do not have it, more then likely your vacation plans are in ruins.

As of June 1, 2009 your driver’s license and birth certificate are NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE PROOF

In order to travel to Canada, you now need an offical passport issued by your country of citizenship or an enahanced driver license (not all states offer this type of license - check with your states Department of Motor Vehicles to see if they carry this license type).

You should also carry a certified copy of your birth certificate with you at all times when traveling abroad. 

A resident alien (green) card will also do the trick, no questions asked. Remember, it is your burden to prove  your citizenship!

Parents of infants and small children are also required to carry identification and citizenship proof. If Dad stayed home from vacation because he had to work, you will want to be sure to have him sign a note stating that he is aware that his children are traveling alone with their mother, and allowing the children to travel outside of the country.

If you have had a conviction in your past (even if you are completely reformed!) you may want to think twice about traveling to Canada. Immigration agents have been known to turn people around at the border. Most of our laws in the United States classify as a convictable or non-convictable offense in Canada. Even a misdemeanor can disqualify you from entering the country. Again, DO NOT ASSUME! Did you get a DUI 8 years ago? More then likely you are not eligible to enter Canada. Call your nearest Canadian consulate for details regarding specific laws for entry if you were ever convicted of a crime.

Follow these simple steps and your border crossing will be hassle free. Have a wonderful Niagara Falls Vacation!
 

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About The Author 

James Leehan is a website developer who publishes numerous tourism related websites. He also owns and operates a limousine service located in the Buffalo, NY area. You can visit them on the web at http://www.buffaloairportlimo.com