Required Documents for Crossing the Border

The documents required to cross the Canada-U.S. border depend on your citizenship, your age, and how you're travelling.  Please understand that customs officers can turn you away from the country you are trying to visit; travelling without the right documents could ruin your vacation.

Canada has implemented an entry requirement called an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Starting March 15, 2016, travellers who do not normally need a visa will need to get an eTA before flying to or transiting through Canada.  This entry requirement applies to foreign nationals who are visa-exempt and who travel to Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid visa. Entry requirements have not changed for those travelling by land or sea.

From August 1, 2015, eligible travellers can apply for an eTA through an online process.  From March 15, 2016, the eTA will be mandatory and needed before boarding a flight to Canada.  The application process takes a few minutes and costs CA$7.  The eTA is attached electronically to your passport and remains valid for either five years or to the expiry date of your passport, whichever comes first.  Each traveller must submit an application.  There is no need to apply through a third party at an inflated cost.

All passengers on arriving international flights fill in the simple customs declaration form handed out on the plane.

Citizens of the United States

This table lists the documents you need to visit Canada and to return home hassle-free.