Border Travel Update:
New Document Requirements

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Department of State (DOS) remind the traveling public that as of January 31, 2008, all adult travelers are required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, and proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, when entering the United States through land and sea ports of entry.

The U.S. announced that, as of January 23, 2007, all travellers entering, transiting or exiting the United States by air require a valid passport or NEXUS card, which can be used at a NEXUS kiosk at designated airports.

Travel to the United States

Currently, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may accept oral declarations of citizenship from U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking entry into the United States through a land or sea border. However, as of January 31, 2008:

• Oral declarations of citizenship and identity alone will no longer be accepted
• U.S. and Canadian citizens ages 19 and older will need to present a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, AND proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate
• Children ages 18 and under will only be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate
• Passports and trusted traveler program cards - NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST - will continue to be accepted for cross-border travel

Travel to Canada

• Entry requirements to Canada have not changed in the context of the WHTI. If you are a Canadian citizen or a citizen of the United States, you do not need a passport to enter Canada; however, you should carry proof of your citizenship such as a birth certificate, certificate of citizenship or naturalization or a Certificate of Indian Status, as well as a photo ID.
• If you are a permanent resident of the United States, you must bring your permanent resident card (i.e. green card) with you.

To view the complete requirements, please visit http://www.dhs.gov/xnews/releases/pr_1196711811270.shtm.

Travel document requirements for Canadian citizens traveling to the United States by land or water are also available on the Canada Border Services Agency website at http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/whti-ivho/2007-11-09-eng.html.