Travel Restrictions

Due to recent circumstances, airport security measures have been changed and increased. Travelers are asked to call their airlines for information on how soon to arrive at the airport, but 2-3 hours ahead of departure is recommended.

Passengers flying into or out of the United States must comply with the following security measures:

1. Travelers may now carry through security checkpoints travel-size toiletries (3 ounces or less) that fit comfortably in ONE, QUART-SIZE (.94 litres), clear plastic, zip-top bag.
2. After clearing security, travelers can now bring beverages and other items purchased in the secure boarding area on-board aircraft.


For more information on prohibited items, please visit The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority Website or the US Transportation Security Administrations list of prohibited items.

Passport Requirements

United States

AIR

As of January 31, 2008, Canadian citizens travelling by air to, through or from the United States must present one of the following documents:

* A valid Canadian passport; or
* A valid NEXUS card when used at participating airports.

This requirement applies to all travellers, regardless of age, including children.

SEA

As of January 31, 2008, the United States is requiring all travellers by sea to present documents to enter the U.S. These documents must be one of the following:

* A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's licence, PLUS a birth certificate or citizenship card; or
* A valid passport; or
* A NEXUS card; or
* An enhanced driver's licence; or
* A Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) card; or
* For those 18 and under, only a birth certificate.

LAND

As of January 31, 2008, the United States is requiring all travellers to present documents to enter the U.S. These documents must be one of the following:

* A government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's licence, 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 licence; or
* A Certificate of Indian Status (CIS) card; or
* For those 18 and under, only a birth certificate.

Passport applications for new applicants can take up to 12 weeks to process, so plan ahead. You are highly encouraged to have a passport for any US travel.

Mexico

Canadians travelling to Mexico will need one of the following documents to be allowed entry:

*a valid Canadian passport
*a Canadian birth certificate with one valid photo I.D.
*a certificate of Canadian citizenship with one valid photo I.D.

We strongly recommend that a valid passport be carried for all visits to Mexico. Tourists carrying passports will be processed faster than those carrying other forms of identification. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected return to Canada.

If you are applying for any kind of visa in Mexico, you must have a valid passport.

Please note that a passport will be needed in order to exchange travellers cheques.

Please note that sometimes Mexican authorities let travellers enter the country without any of the documents mentioned above. Unfortunately, it will not be possible to exit Mexico in the same manner and an Emergency Passport at a cost of CDN $ 81 will be required. Please be sure that you travel with at least one of the three documents mentioned above in order to avoid any fees and additional lost time.

Please visit the Canada Border Services Agency or Passport Canada for more information.

Updated April 5 2008