Travelers entering the United States through land ports of entry must present appropriate documentation to establish both identity and citizenship.
United States and Canadian citizens age 19 and older must present a government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, along with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or a valid passport.
Children age 18 and younger may enter the United States with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or passport. Verbal claims of citizenship or identity alone are not sufficient to establish eligibility for entry into the United States.
Permanent residents of the United States (Green Card holders) returning to the United States after visiting Canada must present their Alien Registration Card (Permanent Resident Card) and be able to demonstrate that their trip to Canada was temporary and of short duration.
Non-immigrants (including visitors, students, temporary workers, and diplomats) returning to the United States after traveling to Canada must present their passport, visa if required, Form I-94, and evidence that they remain in valid immigration status in the United States. Before traveling to Canada, non-immigrants are encouraged to stop at a U.S. port of entry to verify that they have the proper documentation needed for reentry into the United States.
United States citizens and permanent residents traveling to Canada for a brief visit should also be prepared to present the same documentation when returning to the United States. Travelers may be asked to explain where they traveled, the length of their stay, and the purpose of their trip.
Non-immigrants who are legally present in the United States and wish to travel to Canada should contact the Embassy of Canada in Washington, D.C. to determine the entry requirements that apply to them. Information may be obtained by calling (202) 682-1760 or by visiting their website.
Additional information about entering the United States can be found on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
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U.S. Customs and Border Protection
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Embassy of Canada in Washington, D.C.
For the most current travel requirements, travelers are encouraged to consult official government resources before crossing the border.