What documents do you need to get into Canada from the US... and how long does it take to get these documents?

Question

I'm going to be taking a trip up there soon... most likely in the next week or so... I know that Canadians don't need any documents to get into the United States, but I'm pretty sure Americans need stuff... Thanks in advance

Answer 1

It depends on the purpose of your trip. The permission that a country gives someone to travel into the country from outside is called a "visa". Canada and the U.S. have an agreement that they will grant visiting visas for relatively short trips to U.S. citizens. If you plan to make a short trip into Canada for visiting, and do not plan to work there, you will be allowed to enter with no problems. If you want to work or something in Canada, you will need another kind of visa, which you could apply for at a Canadian consulate, for example.

You should be aware that you will need proof of U.S. citizenship to return to the U.S. from Canada. Before 2007, you can use a passport, or a birth certificate and photo ID. Starting in 2007, U.S. citizens will need a passport to return to the U.S. after visiting Canada. So, if you have a passport, bring it on your trip. If you don't have one, bring a birth certificate and a photo ID.

Answer 2

All you need is your birth certificate and a drivers license or other official state ID (social security cards are NOT valid ID).

Often you don't even need that to get into Canada ... but be sure to have it with you, you will definitely be needing it to get back in to the U.S.

Also, just as a note ... Canadians need the same documents to get into the U.S.; and the U.S. side checks all documentation.

As it stands right now, Passports will be needed beginning January, 2007.

Answer 3

U will be asked for your license or photo id. There has been and had the problem when you go to canada the say thank you in french have a nice visit when I came back to get in the us it was a big problem they ran my license then told me that there was a problem before I left I ended up have to show my birth certificate and social security card. Depends on who is at the border on duty

Answer 4

You need two pieces of ID to enter Canada...like a drivers as well as a birth certif....that's it, until the end of this year..then you'll need a passport.....It's Canadians who need a passport NOW to enter the States...

Answer 5

guy, is this Yahoo solutions or Yahoo incorrect information? i'm American residing in Canada, until eventually Jan./2008 you could enter the two usa with only motive force license & beginning certif. I circulate frequently and could no longer go with a passport until eventually Jan/2008.

Answer 6

If you're an American citizen, just take your passport with you. If you're a permanent resident, bring a current passport and your green card. If you have a baby/child with you, be sure to bring his/her birth certificate.