Canada Border Crossing Information

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is in effect as of January 31, 2008. The WHTI is a US law that requires all travelers to present a valid passport or birth certificate with a raised seal along with a valid driver’s license when traveling to or from the US and Canada.

1. Requirements of Canadian citizens traveling to the US by land and water: as of January 31, 2008, all Canadian citizens crossing the border will need to follow the following requirements:
• a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, PLUS a birth certificate or citizenship card;
OR
• A valid passport;
OR
• A NEXUS or a Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card;
OR
• An enhanced driver's license (in testing phase in British Columbia);
OR
• An Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) card;
OR
• For those 18 and under, a birth certificate.

2. Update on passports for US citizens traveling to Canada by land and water:

• As of February 1, 2008, all U.S. citizens crossing the border will need a valid passport or valid driver's license and raised seal birth certificate issued by a government agency.
• The fee for a passport will be $100.00 for adults age 16 and older and $85.00 for children age 15 and younger -- an increase of $3.00, effective 2/1/08.
• To offset the Federal Government's fee increase, the Monroe County Clerk's Office decreased its fee for passport photos to $7.00 from $10.00.
• Children under the age of 16 will need either both parents or legal guardians to appear to apply for a passport, or submit a notarized Statement of Consent form. The form is available online at travel.state.gov
• Travelers will also be able to apply for Passport Cards that will be valid for crossing the border by land or sea. The cost of a Passport Card is $45 for adults age 16 and older and $35 for children age 15 or younger. Please Note: Passport Cards will not be produced and mailed to applicants until late Spring 2008 at the earliest. More information will be forthcoming.