Travel

Travel documentation

Before you leave the country, make sure you have the necessary documents - including a valid passport and other related documentation. CAA provides a variety of services that can help.

Passport Photos

Visit your local CAA Store to have your passport photo taken. You can also visit Passport Canada online for information regarding passport application procedures, including online passport applications.

Passport Photo Prices:

• CAA Members: $9.50 +tax
• Non-Members: $12.50 +tax

New entry requirements to the United States

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is a new U.S. law requiring all travellers, including Canadians, to carry a passport or other appropriate secure documentation when travelling to the United States.

Air travel

Since January 23, 2007, the WHTI requires Canadian citizens entering or transiting the United States by air to present:

• A valid Canadian passport; OR
• A NEXUS card when used at a NEXUS kiosk

This requirement applies to all Canadian citizens, regardless of age, including children. Canadians should obtain the appropriate required documentation before leaving Canada, keep this documentation up to date and carry it with you when travelling.

Land and sea travel

As of June 1, 2009, Canadian citizens travelling to the United States by land or water must present one of the following valid documents as part of the U.S. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) requirements:

• A valid Canadian passport; OR
• A NEXUS card; OR
• A Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card; OR
• An enhanced driver's license/enhanced identification card (from a province or territory, where available)

Only proof of Canadian citizenship, such as an original or photocopy of a birth certificate or citizenship card is required for:

• Children aged 15 and under; AND
• Citizens aged 18 and under who are travelling with a school or other organized group, under adult supervision with parental/guardian consent.

Canadian citizens flying to, through or from the U.S. must still present a valid passport. This requirement applies to all travelers, regardless of age.

Further information and assistance

The Government of Canada continues to recommend that Canadians carry a valid Canadian passport when visiting all destinations abroad, including the United States. A passport is the only universally accepted identification document, and it proves you have a right to return to Canada. Please note that Canadians are not required to have Machine Readable Passports to enter the U.S., even if the passport was issued abroad. Canada is not a participant in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program.

Canadians who are permanent residents of the United States must comply with special entry requirements. For more information, see the U.S. Department of State Web site.

Passport Canada is experiencing a sharp volume increase in passport applications in all of its offices, by mail and through its receiving agents.

More information is available from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Web site.