A FRIEND WANTS TO KNOW AND I WANNA MAKE SURE.
2007-06-11 05:56:36 · 9 answers · asked by THE M 1 in Travel ➔ Canada ➔ Other - Canada
Actually, you don't need one going back. The rules are the same going both ways across the border, and they are expected to be the same in the future. Canada is not going to let you into the country knowing that you are likely to get stuck here. They don't want it inherit the problems.
Right now you need a passport to fly internationally. You can not board an international flight in the US without one. But you can cross into Canada by land and sea without a passport until sometime next year. (date not set in stone, and changes to the rules keep being announced)
2007-06-11 06:56:52 · answer #1 · answered by JuanB 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
If you are driving from the USA into Canada or vice versa, then all you would need would be a valid picture id such as a drivers license, Canadians would need a passport driving across the boarder as of January 1, 2008, while Americans would need it come the end of October 2008. Flying would be the same. US Government changed the regulations for it citizens a few weeks ago because of a backup in passport applications. If I were you, I'd see about getting a passport just to be on the safe side.
2007-06-11 17:55:18 · answer #2 · answered by a1a5g6 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You are right, you do need a passport if you are returning to the USA by air.
To enter Canada however, nothing whatsoever has changed. The WHTI that has started all the confusion is an American based law. That means that Canada does NOT enforce it. No matter what anyone tells you, the job of Canadian Border Guards is NOT to enforce an American law. That is the job for the American border guards when you try and go back to the USA. (re-entering that is called btw)
This is what the Canada Border Services Agency says; note the words they use:
What Canadians and all travellers will need to enter the United States after the WHTI is implemented for land and sea modes of travel
Once the WHTI is fully implemented for all modes of travel, all travellers, including Canadians and Americans, will need to carry a valid passport or other appropriate secure document when travelling to the United States.
And the American Border site:
Required Documents
When entering Canada from the United States, U.S. citizens must show either a U.S. passport or other proof of U.S. citizenship - such as an original or certified birth certificate together with photo identification. U.S. citizens entering Canada from a third country must have a valid passport. A visa is not required for U.S. citizens for a stay up to 180 days
And:
Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative The USA will require a passport or other specified documentation for entry into the U.S. from Canada and from all other countries. This will affect both Americans and Canadians.
The effective date for air and sea travel is January 23, 2007 and for land travel, as early as January, 2008.
What that means in plain english is "yes" you may be "asked" for a passport....but it is not a "requirement" to enter Canada. It just makes things easier. Just like when you go to a department store they ask if you are paying with their store card...they'd like to you to use...but you can still pay by cash. Same analogy. Preference versus requirement. You can still use your drivers license and original birth certificate like you always have
2007-06-11 22:51:20 · answer #3 · answered by Cariad 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As of Friday, June 8th the U.S. is relaxing passport requirements for flying. All you need to do is show a reciept from the country where you have applied for the passport and they will allow you in. This is if you are flying.
If you are driving you do not need a passport. Drivers license and birth certificate.
2007-06-12 09:41:15 · answer #4 · answered by Jennifer L 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If your a citizen of Canada or the US you only need a drivers license and or birth certificate until Jan 1, 2008
2007-06-11 13:02:02 · answer #5 · answered by Marie 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you travel by land ( car, bus or train) all you need at present is photo id and proof of citizenship. If you fly, you need a passport.
2007-06-11 19:36:19 · answer #6 · answered by old lady 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You are okay until Dec 31, 2007
2007-06-11 14:30:37 · answer #7 · answered by someones friend 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you are driving or going by train then no u dont not need one until next January. If you are flying, you do need one.
2007-06-11 13:47:05 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
If you're Canadian or American Citizen, no!
2007-06-11 17:52:58 · answer #9 · answered by Dave Star 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋