Passport Information

U.S. Citizens and U.S. Residents

Approved Forms of Identification: Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative

U.S. citizens traveling by air between the U.S. and Canada will be required to present an approved form of indentification.  Please see, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative for approved forms of indentification.  In addition, those admissible to Canada must not have a criminal record. This includes any convictions for driving while intoxicated.

How to Obtain a Passport (first time applicants):

  1. Fill Out Form DS-11: Application For A U.S. Passport (do not sign until instructed)
  2. Submit Form DS-11: Application For A U.S. Passport In Person
  3. Submit Evidence of U.S. Citizenship (Certified Birth Certificate, Naturalization Certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship)
  4. Present Identification (Naturalization Certificate, Valid Driver’s License, Current Government ID, or Current Military ID)
  5. Submit a Photocopy of the Identification Document(s) Presented (Step 4)
  6. Pay the Applicable Fee
  7. Provide Two Passport Photos

For more detailed instructions and inquiries about required documents, refer to www.travel.state.gov/passport/

*The passport card is a wallet-size travel document that can only be used to re-enter the United States at land border-crossings and sea ports-of-entry from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The card provides a less expensive, smaller, and convenient alternative to the passport book for those who travel frequently to these destinations only by land or by sea.  All U.S. citizens may apply for a passport card.  If you have a U.S. passport book and are eligible to use Form DS-82, you may apply for the card by mail.  If you have never had a U.S. passport book or are not eligible to use Form DS-82, you must apply in person using Form DS-11. The passport card cannot be used for international travel by air.

**FAST (Free and Secure Trade) cards are a joint initiative between the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection that enhance border security.  FAST cards may be used in lieu of a passport between the U.S. and Canada if traveling by land or water.  You must be at least 18 years of age, possess a valid driver’s license, and meet Canadian and U.S. immigration laws to obtain a FAST card.  Please visit www.cbp.gov to apply.

 

European Union Citizens

All you need is a valid passport, a return ticket and sufficient funds to support yourself and your dependents during your stay in Canada.  If you do not have a passport, please check with your country's civil branch for passports for application details.

 

Citizens of Other Countries

International travelers may require a visa to enter or transit Canada. To see whether you require a visa, visit the Canada site for more information on visa requirements.   http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/visas.asp

 

Travelers Bringing Children

Travelers visiting Canada with children should carry the following:

  1. Identification for each child similar to identification described for adults
  2. A letter of permission from the parents of any children accompanying them for whom they do not have legal custody