What information do I need to have ready as I cross the US border into Canada?

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How timely - I was just there 2 days ago.

** for those saying driver's license only...you should avoid this. Some Canadians get a little ticked at not being considered a "real" country sometimes, and they will tell you that a license is not sufficient as it does not provide proof of citizenship, and then ask you what other countries allow you to cross their borders with only a driver's license. (You can say Mexico, but only for another month).

Depending on if you are going through an airport or using a manned checkpoint at a border crossing (in Washington, Michigan, etc.) the questions will vary.

At a minimum you should have your passport, and a driver's license or birth certificate as a backup.

They will want to know what purpose your are traveling into Canada for, how long you are planning to stay, and where you were prior to entering Canada . Depending on how well/poor you answer these, you may/may not be asked more questions.

If you are going on business, take a business card with you and present it when you present your passport/ID.

Good luck!

sittin.on23s

passport

my_mas0n

check the web site that canadian customs has.

Susan M

Getting into Canada isn't usually a problem. Getting back in to the US will be tougher. Get a passport to go with our driver's license.

sweet cheeks

You must have proof of citizenship. This is not on your drivers licsense. My government will expect a birthcertificate plus picture ID or a passport.

Pichi

Okay, you are going to want to have with you drivers license AND a copy of your Birth certificate OR a current passport. They may not ask for them, but given the circumstances for which you are going, they may.

If you are going over for more than a weekend or a week, like, it sounds you are planning to go for a few months from what you said, be prepared to be able to prove you have the financial resources to pay all your expenses while you are there. Telling them you are staying with a friend (and thus not in need of funds for motel, etc) doesn't fly.

You will not be able to work legally in Canada ... even playing music in bars, etc. And, they get more suspicious of musicians and artists for some reason.

If you met your lady online, they will likely ask some more detailed questions. Also, everything you say is taped, and notes are made as well, so best to be truthful, then you don't have any future consistency problems.

Of course, you might not have any hassle at all, just giving you some advice in case you do.

whirlwind_123

As a US citizen? Your drivers license. They can also ask you for a passport if you have one but it isnt required to go into or leave canada, just proof that you are a us citizen. They may also ask you for yor registration and insurance. You may also need to declare any thing of value, for instance if your a smoker and decide to bring a case of cartons over because they are cheaper in the US, this wont be allowed. Same deal on alcohol.

smartman_06

passport generally, but a drivers liscence might work

tampico

Passport, Driver's License. Typically, you'll need to answer a battery of questions regarding your citizenship, where you live...etc. They may also ask why you are going to Canada, how long you plan to be there.. business or pleasure.

mailatac

You don't need a passport yet, but they are seriously debating that, so it may be law soon. Usually a driver's licence or state ID, etc. is fine.

TROUBLE

ALL YOU NEED IS A DRIVERS LICENSE. BUT IN I THINK 2007, YOU WILL NEED A PASSPORT FOR GOING TO CANADA AND MEXICO.

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