Year: 2017

Brazil Visa Tips: Do I Need A Passport and A Visa To Go To Brazil?

Posted on by waleed

Brazil is home to about 60% of the Amazon rain forest the longest country in the world with land spanning from north to south 2,800 miles, and the world largest beach at 24,606 feet long. Brazil is one of the countries where a person will need both a passport and a visa in order to enter the country. The passport will need to be valid for the date of entry. Brazil has the 6-month passport validity rule in place.

What is needed

Before a person travels to Brazil, they will need to obtain a Brazilian visa. To get a visa, visit a Brazilian Embassy or a consulate closest to you in the U.S. If a person wants to apply for a Brazilian visa via a consulate, they can not do so by mail. A person can submit an application in person or through a proxy at the consulate or through a visa agency.

The Brazilian Visa

The Brazilian tourist visa is valid for 10 years. No one can obtain a visa at an airport. If you are at the airport, immigration will not allow anyone to enter the country if they do not have a valid visa. There is no way for the U.S. government to assist anyone if they arrive in Brazil without a visa. Upon arriving in Brazil, you must fill out an immigration form and return it when leaving the country.

There are different rules for minors who are applying for a Brazilian visa. The Brazilian Embassy or consulate may require a birth certificate as well as a notarized travel authorization from both parents.

Waiving Visa Requirement

On occasion, a country may waive the visa requirement for certain individuals entering the country during a specific time period. Brazil is actually waiving visas for U.S. citizens during the 2016 Olympics from June 1st until September 18th, 2016. U.S. citizens are not required to provide proof that they are attending the Olympics. However, they can only stay in the country for 90 days without a visa. The visa waiver is only applicable for tourism purposes and no other reasons.

Anyone who wants to travel to Brazil will need to plan early enough. Brazil is usually safe for U.S. citizens but should always be careful, and watch your surrounding. The purpose is to make sure that they have their passport and visa ready for their trip. The processing time usually doesn’t take that long. But, there are certain times throughout the year when it takes longer due to more being traveling. No one wants to miss out on a trip. Especially, if it is because they did not request the proper information early enough or not at all.

How Do You Apply For A Chinese Entry Visa?

Posted on by Lloyd C

U.S. citizens planning to travel to China must obtain a Chinese Entry Visa before arriving in China. Requirements for U.S. citizens attempting to obtain a Chinese Entry Visa are different from citizens of other countries. So, it’s important to ensure you fully understand the application process.

A Chinese entry visa can be a tourist or business visa. Regardless, you must provide the same documents when you apply. If you enter as a tourist, then you apply for a tourist visa. If your trip is business related, then apply for a business visa.

Who Needs A Chinese Entry Visa?

All U.S. citizens must obtain a Chinese Entry Visa before arriving in China, with the exception of the 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit Program. Landing visas are not available on arrival in China. Lack of a proper entry visa will result in deportation and possible detention.

What Kind Of Visa Should I Apply For?

There are four types of Chinese Entry visas: diplomatic visa, courtesy visa, service visa, and ordinary visa. Ordinary visas are categorized into 12 or 16 types.

The ordinary visa types include Chinese phonetic letters: L, M, F, Z, X1, X2, S1, S2, Q1, Q2, C, J-1, J-2, G, D, and R.

Tourist Visa (L)

  • Issued to anyone going touring and sightseeing
  • Proof of travel, such as flight confirmation and hotel reservation, is required
  • Single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry available
  • Duration of stay is 30-60 days
  • Valid for ten years

Business Visa (M)

  • Issued for commercial and trade activities
  • Single-entry, double-entry, and multiple-entry available
  • Duration of stay is 30-60 days
  • Valid up to 10 years

Non-Commerce Visa (F)

  • Issued for research, lecture, scientific, cultural exchange, and study
  • Single-entry and double-entry only
  • Duration if the stay is 30-90 days

Work Visa (Z)

  • Must have a work permit or employment license first
  • Issued for conducting commercial performance
  • Single-entry only

Study Visa (X1/X2)

  • Issued to students accepted by a Chinese college
  • X1 is for students staying more than six months
  • X2 is for students staying less than six months
  • X1 visa issued for multiple entry and valid for five years
  • X2 visa issued for single-entry only

Private Visa (S1, Long Term)

  • Issued to visit immediate family members
    • Immediate family includes spouse, parents, sons or daughters, or parents-in-law.
    • You must show proof of kinship
  • Stay duration must be 180 days or longer
  • Single-entry only
  • Must register and apply, within 30 days of entry, for a residency permit

Private Visa (S2, Short Term)

  • Issued to visit immediate family or private matters
    • Private matters include friends, divorce, inheritance, adoption, marriage, or medical services
  • Stay duration is 30-90 days
  • Multiple-entry

Family Visa (Q1, Long Term)

  • Issued to family members of Chinese citizens or someone with Chinese permanent residency
  • Stay duration exceeds 180 days
  • Single-entry only
  • Must register and apply, within 30 days of entry, for a residency permit

Family Visa (Q2, Short Term)

  • Issued to Chinese descendants or foreigners who are the spouse of Chinese citizens
  • Stay duration is up to 120 days
  • Issued for multiple-entry

Crew Visa (C)

  • Issued to crew members, including:
    • Aircraft, trains, ships, and motor vehicle drivers
    • Family members of crew members
  • Multiple-entry

Group Visa

  • Issued to tourist groups of at least five members
  • One official visa notification letter is required

Transit Visa (G)

  • Similar to a tourist visa

You should apply for the visa that is most appropriate to your purpose of travel to China. The length of validity and allowance activities vary depending on the kind of visa. More information about visas is available on the Chinese Embassy website.

Where Should I Apply?

U.S. citizens must apply for a visa at a Chinese Embassy or Consulate General in their State of residence. In general, you don’t need to appear in person unless the consular officer says so.

A friend or visa processing agency can submit the completed forms and the necessary supporting documents. An appointment is not required, and applications are not accepted by mail.

Required Documents And Processing Fees

Required documents and processing fees vary depending on the visa you are applying for. A full list of required documents and processing fees is available at the Chinese Embassy website.

How Long Does The Visa Application Process Take?

Applications are usually processed within four days, though the embassy recommends applying at least one month in advance. An express service is available for an additional fee.

What Is The 72 Hour Visa-Free Transit Program?

The 72-Hour Visa-Free Transit Program allows visitors from 53 countries to enter 18 Chinese cities without a visa.

The following 53 countries and regions will be given a visa-free stay up to 72 hours while transiting via Beijing Capital Airport, Shanghai Pudong Airport, Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, and airports of Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Shenyang, Dalian, Harbin, Xi’an, Guilin, Kunming, Hangzhou, Wuhan, Tianjin, Qingdao, Nanjing, Changsha, and Xiamen.

The countries granted the visa-free stay for 72 hours are:

Schengen Agreement Countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland

Other European Countries: Russia, United Kingdom, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia, Albania, Belarus, Monaco

American Countries: United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile

Oceania Countries: Australia, New Zealand

Asian Countries: Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, Qatar

Passengers require an onward ticket to a third country departing within 72 hours. The passenger must also depart from the same airport they arrived at. Passengers can apply for the program on arrival at the airport in cities participating in the program.

Further Warnings

A valid Chinese Entry Visa is not a guarantee to enter China. The Chinese Border Control Authority decides who enters China at the port of entry. This is done in accordance with Chinese Laws and Regulations.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. In addition, you must have at least two blank pages.

Conclusion

The Visa Waiver Program for Asian Countries is a great way to visit these countries without the hassle of obtaining a visa. It allows citizens of participating countries to enter these countries for business, tourism, and transit purposes. However, it’s important to remember that you must meet all the requirements before traveling. Be sure to plan ahead, so you have everything you need to ensure a successful trip. It’s also important to know that the Chinese Border Control Authority has the ultimate authority in deciding who can and cannot enter China, so be sure to prepare for their requirements as well. With proper planning and research, you can make your travels abroad without any hassle! Happy traveling!

 

Permanent Canadian Residency

Posted on by Lloyd C

Moving from one country to another can be an incredibly rewarding process. For many, it represents a massive change in their life for the better. It can also be a time-consuming process. Particularly, if you’re moving to a country like Canada with this article we would discuss how to become a Canadian resident.

What are the requirements for a Canadian Residency?

If you were not originally born in that country, there are a number of important steps you’ll need to follow. Steps to help make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible. Note that to apply to become a permanent Canadian resident, you must be at least 18-years-old. If you are not, your legal guardian will need to apply on your behalf.

First Step to a Canadian Residency

The first step you’ll need to take before you move to Canada involves determining which type of permanent Canadian residency best suits your needs. Provided that you don’t already have family living in the country, you’ll need to choose from a number of economic class options. Options that include but are not limited to ones like:

Types of Permanent Canadian Residency

  • Humanitarian and Compassionate Cases
  • Express Entry (which is commonly reserved for federal skilled workers and trades classes)
  • Start-Up Visa
  • Quebec Investors and Entrepreneurs
  • Quebec-Selected Skilled Workers
  • Self-Employed Persons
  • Caring for Children Class and more.

Official Canadian Website

Visit Canada’s own immigration website to determine which of these classes best represents your own situation.

Next, you will need to download the relevant application form from Canada’s website. Complete and submit it, along with all requested documentation and the processing fee, to the Citizenship and Immigration Office listed on the application in question.

In terms of supporting documents, you will typically be asked to provide things like a valid United States passport, proof of the fact that you speak English (or French, depending on where in Canada you plan on moving), your birth certificate and certain necessary financial information.

Once you are invited to become a permanent resident of the country, you will need to live in Canada for at least two consecutive years over a five-year period of time. Doing so will allow you to become a permanent resident. But if you want to actually become a Canadian citizen, you’ll need to take things a step farther by living in Canada for at least 1,460 days over a six-year period of time.

Once you have satisfied those requirements, you will have become both a permanent Canadian resident and a Canadian citizen. The only things you won’t be able to do are a vote, run for office or obtain certain government jobs that involve security clearance.

How to Go About Getting a Business Visa to Afghanistan

Posted on by Lloyd C

Kabul, like any world capital, is a thriving city that a lot of Americans find themselves locating to for work. In order to enter Afghanistan for business, travelers must provide a valid business visa as well as a passport. If potential work seekers or travelers fail to comply with the requirements, his/her passport will be confiscated. Also, he/she must pay a $100 fine. So, be sure you know what you need before you get a Business Visa to Afghanistan.

Afghanistan isn’t handing out business visas to just anyone. Applicants must prove their legitimacy for wanting to obtain the business visa.  As well as proving their employer and purpose for the trip. Due to the fact that employees must be secured prior to arriving in Kabul, most companies and agencies provide housing for their employees. There are many perks to choosing to work in Afghanistan. To begin, you must request the Afghanistan Business Visa Application Kit. The following sections will provide more specific requirements you will need to complete it correctly.

Afghanistan Business Visa Requirements

  • A valid passport and business visa are required for travel to Afghanistan.
  • Your passport must be signed by you and must be valid for 6 months beyond your stay in Afghanistan. U.S. Citizens need to have at least one-page blank for an Afghanistan visa stamp.
  • Please note the “amendment pages” in the back of the passport book are not suitable for Afghanistan visas. Citizens from Los Angeles must have 2 blank passport pages face to face for entry.
  • Two copies of the Afghanistan Visa Application Form, one signed and one copy. Download here: Afghanistan-Visa-Application-Form-English
  • 1 recent 2 x 2 passport type photograph. This means it must be in color, with the subject in a front view, no glasses, with a plain/white background. For more photo requirements click here. Another option is to upload this photo when you place your order.
  • You must provide a business cover letter. This consists of an original, signed a letter from the employer or sponsoring company in the US. It must be on company letterhead introducing you (the applicant for the visa) including a statement regarding your employment status or position in the company. Another requirement is to include the applicant’s passport number. If you are a government contractor it must be explicitly stated in the letter. Your letter must state your purpose of visit to Afghanistan and formally request the Afghanistan visa.
  • Detailed contact information in Afghanistan as well as stating who will be financially responsible for you (the applicant) while in the country.
  • Typically only single entry Afghanistan visas are granted at the end of this. If the applicant presents approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Afghanistan then they may receive a multiple entry visa.

Afghanistan Entry Visa Option

An Afghanistan Entry Visa is another option. The process is as follows:

  • You and/or your employer should write a formal letter explaining your situation and outline why you arrived in Afghanistan without a visa.
  • You will take this letter to the Consular Section at the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).
  • The MFA will draft a letter to the Foreign Relations Department of the Ministry of Interior (MOI).
  • The General Police Office will then give you a letter addressed to the Border Police Office at Kabul International Airport. This process may take 2 weeks or more to complete.
  • Then you will bring this letter to the airport along with 2 passport sized photos to the Border Police Office. You will fill out forms and at this time you will pay the $100 fine.
  • This process only allows you to be in Afghanistan for 15 days. If you decide to stay longer you have two options. You can apply for a tourist visa or a multiple entry visa at the General Passport Office, Foreigners’ Visa Section.

In general, traveler’s are warned to expect inconsistencies in the Afghan entry/exit control process. It is far better to be over prepared in these types of situations. There are hefty visa expiration fines as well. If a visa expires, the traveler must pay $2 per day for the first month and $5 per day for the second month of overstaying their visa. After two months of this, the traveler must pay a $210 fine and is subject to deportation.

Business travel to Afghanistan can be very alluring to many American companies and employees. Afghanistan business opportunities are growing more every year, so protect your time and financial investments: make sure you apply for your business visas to Afghanistan early and accurately!

Five Countries Where U.S. Citizens Need a Travel Visa

Posted on by Lloyd C

One of the most important things to understand about traveling to another country is how long you will stay in the international destination. For an extended stay, you usually need a residency visa regardless of which country you’re traveling to.

However, many US citizens can travel to other countries on a short-term basis without a visa. Most popular travel destinations for vacations and tourists fall under this category. There are five countries you will need a travel visa to go there.

“Some” doesn’t mean “all”, though, particularly in this case. There are actually five popular countries where US citizens will need a travel visa before they depart.

Brazil

If you’re going to be traveling to Brazil for any purpose, you’re going to need a travel visa. If you go without a visa, you will be immediately sent back to the US. You should get a proper visa application from the Brazilian Embassy BEFORE you depart for your trip.

China

If your trip will take you to mainland China, you’ll need to apply for what is called an entry visa through the Chinese Embassy or Consulate General before your trip. Generally speaking, you should do this at least one month before your trip because you will NOT be able to obtain one once you arrive.

India

If you’re traveling to India for any purpose, you need a travel visa as a US citizen. The good news is that if you’re staying less than 30 days, you can apply for an electronic travel authorization online and take care of everything before you go. If you’re going to be staying for longer than 180 days and are planning to work while in India, you need to register your residency at the Foreigners Regional Registration Office.

Russia

Russia actually has one of the more strict systems for admitting visitors into the country worldwide. In addition to the fact that US citizens will need a visa to enter the country in the first place, you also need to make sure that it does not expire before your trip is scheduled to end. If it does, you could potentially find yourself stranded in Russia for up to 20 days. Russian visas also require a sponsor, which could be a travel company, hotel or university or even a friend.

Vietnam

US citizens will also need a travel visa to enter Vietnam for any purpose. In addition to this, it is a requirement that you have at least six months remaining validity on your passport. Alternatively, you may also be able to use a written approval letter which you can get from your travel agency prior to your departure.

Vacation Destinations That Don’t Require a US Passport

Posted on by waleed

If you’re looking for a tropical vacation in an exotic location, you don’t necessarily need a passport to get there. Although the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative of 2009 requires passengers to carry passports when traveling by air to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, there are several popular vacation options within this region that Americans can still visit without passport identification. US Customs and Border Protection confirms that you can visit any of these sunny hotspots with no more than a driver’s license. Or some with just a Passport card or a state ID card.

Puerto Rico

Like many of the vacation destinations on this list, Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the United States. Which significantly streamlines border customs operations. And like all of the vacation destinations on this list, it is home to a number of beautiful beaches. Less than three hours from Miami by plane, Puerto Rico stands at the crossroads. A crossroad between America and the Caribbean. This small island draws cultural influence from Spain, Africa, and Latin America.

U.S. Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands can be reached from Puerto Rico in minutes by plane. The US acquired the three main islands of St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John as well as a scattering of smaller chain Isles in 1917. All told, these islands attract approximately 2.6 million visitors per year. Thanks to their exceptional weather and outstanding swimming and diving spots.

Northern Mariana Islands

Colonized by the Spaniard in the 16th century and the Japanese during WWII, the Micronesian islands of the Northern Marianas have been a US territory since 1994. These islands feature scenic lagoons that are filled with a diverse array of wildlife. Underwater thrill seekers love to dive the Grotto. An amazing limestone cavern that reaches depths of 70 feet. The Northern Mariana Islands are also perfect for history buffs who love its various war memorials and museums.

Guam

Much like the Northern Mariana Islands that border it to the north, Guam was a colony of Spain. It became occupied by Japan during WWII and is now a US territory. Popular features of this tropical island include the 400-foot cliff-side overlooking Two Lovers Point. Its view offers a scenic panorama of the Philippine Sea.

The Caribbean

While all air passengers must use a passport to return to the US from Caribbean nations such as Bermuda, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. Individuals who travel by sea can gain admittance back into the US using less expensive and more portable options such as a passport card or an enhanced driver’s license.

Trump Signals Support For the Privatization of Air Traffic Control

Posted on by Lloyd C

On Monday, June 5, President Donald J. Trump gave his endorsement to a new proposal. The proposal would be to privatize the air traffic control system in the US. During an event that took place in the East Room of the White House, President Trump signed both a memo and a letter. Both documents will go to Congress. It will outline a new variation on a proposal that has essentially been around for decades.

Mr. Trump indicates that he was taking bold moves to advance the massive infrastructure. A promise he made during his campaign months leading up to the 2016 Presidential election.

The New Plan

Under the new plan, air traffic control would totally detach from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This may occur in the next three years. Airplanes tracking, moving forward, will be with a series of sophisticated global positioning satellites. Something that Mr. Trump said would “dramatically improve”. Improve upon the current method of using radar and radio signals to accomplish the same goals. In theory, this would result in not only fewer delays at airports coast to coast; but also a safer and more efficient system in general. Savings generating from these lower operating costs would then theoretically be pass on to consumers. Customers, he implies will get to purchase cheaper tickets to fly. Though whether that actually happens is still up in the air.

Mr. Trump was very proud of the fact that the new proposal requires no taxpayer money whatsoever. Democrats and other opponents said that the new system would actually lead to increase costs for travelers. In addition, private businesses would save a significant amount of money and keep all of the profits for themselves. Opponents also argued that the new system would leave already underserved areas without mission-critical improvements. Improvements that will affect them way into the next decade and beyond.

Does Privatizing Air Traffic Control Good Or Bad?

Many of the principles in this plan were introduced as legislation in 2016 by Representative BillShuster of Pennsylvania. Mr. Shuster also serves as chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. In fact, a large number of the core ideas have actually been hotly debated for several decades.

Supporters of the plan say that privatizing air traffic control would not only go a long way towards improving or replacing inefficient airports, but the increase competition would spawn innovation across the board. Those on the opposing side of the argument say that something as essential as air traffic control – and by association the safety of the millions of people who use planes to travel the country each year – should never be on the foundation of a privatize model. Further debate on this will be in the coming months.

It’s important to note that even Mr. Trump’s advisors admit that any action regarding this plan is still months away. This, despite the fact that Trump himself said in April that such a plan would be ready to institute by May at the latest.

Tips for Russia Vacation And All The Necessary Documents You Will Need

Posted on by Lloyd C

Discovering Russia is worth all of the obstacles you must go through to get there. Often travelers have these grand ideas to travel to this country but get discouraged by the requirements and differences in our governments. With a valid passport, you are halfway there! The following are general things to know before you visit Russia.

Visa assistance is available and highly regarded by past travelers. It is not necessary to hire this service to be awarded the visa, however, it will make the process easier for you. These services translate portions of the visa/process as well as assist you in ensuring you have all the correct paperwork and documentation.

Travel Tips for Russia: Entry Requirements

All U.S. citizens need a valid passport and visa to enter Russia’s borders. There are six different types of visas depending on the reason for your stay.

A written invitation, or commonly referred to as a support letter, from a Russian citizen or organization to verify your invitation to Russia as well as proof of your accommodation is required of those applying for a visa. This rule is standard for all travelers regardless if they are staying in a hotel, private accommodation or with family/friends. If you need further assistance with your Russian Visa, please visit our page dedicated to Visas to Russia.

Travel Tips for Russia: Upon Arrival

The paperwork does not cease when your plane lands in Russia. Once you arrive at your destination in Russia you will need to complete an immigration form. The customs department at the airport will check this form and return a part of it to you.

It is crucial to register yourself with the Russian government within three working days of your arrival. Hotels offer this service to their guests but private accommodations make it your responsibility. There are local agencies in the city centers that specialize in assisting in this little but important step.

Security Tips for Travel to Russia

Regardless if you are in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, or Barnaul the same general rule of thumb applies to be mindful of your surroundings and to keep track of your valuables. This also means do not travel with your passport in/near your wallet in the event that you lose your wallet. Russia is generally known for being a very safe and well-protected country.

Travel Tips for Russia: Time zones and Currency

Russia is the largest country in the world and currently has 11 time zones. When the easternmost regions move to the Magadan time zone their time difference with Kaliningrad will be reduced to nine hours difference. St. Petersburg is eight hours ahead of U.S. eastern standard time.

The ruble is the currency in Russia.

There are no airlines that offer direct flights from St. Petersburg and America. Thus American and Canadian tourists will most likely reach St. Petersburg by air. Travelers will have to take a connecting flight from one of about 30 European or Asian cities. From here visitors will arrive at Pulkovo 2 Airport which is ten miles (16 kilometers) south of the city. Alternatively, some may travel by sea, rail, or bus connections through other big European cities.

Do You Need a Passport to Go to Niagara Falls?

Posted on by Murray L

Niagara River, attracting over 28 million tourists yearly, straddles the border between America and Canada. Which side is the best to view it from? To get the complete Niagara Falls experience, you will want to cross the border into Ontario.

Wondering if you need a passport to see Niagara Falls from Canada? Recent travel requirement changes have altered the process of crossing the US-Canada border. Avoid being denied entry and plan accordingly.

Do You Need a Passport to Go to Niagara Falls?

The easy answer is yes if you are going to the Canadian side, but if you stay on the New York side, no passport is needed! While it may be possible to enter Canada without a passport, the U.S. Department of State recommends that all international travelers hold a valid passport or passport card.

While some border crossings may permit you to enter with a birth certificate and photo ID, you can not enter with those documents.

What Documents Would I Need to Cross the Canadian Border?

  1. U.S. Passport Book
  2. Passport Card
  3. Green Card and Passport
  4. Enhanced Driver’s License

However, for any flights leaving and entering the United States, you MUST have a valid passport.

All travelers have unique itineraries. Some people are minors, traveling with a tour group, flying domestically within America, and then driving to Canada. The possibilities are endless. The best way to provide ease and answers before your trip is to understand the bottom line, as stated above.

All travelers should hold a valid passport. Also, you may qualify for travel to Canada with a passport card. What is the difference between a passport card and a passport book?

Related Read:  15 of the Best Waterfalls in New York State

Is a Passport Needed for Niagara Falls, Canada

Is a passport required for American citizens to enter Niagara Falls, Canada? Yes, it is. Unless you are 15 years old or younger, you need to have a passport, passport card, or enhanced driver’s license if you are traveling by land to cross the border into Canada.

Can You Drive to Canada Without a Passport?

When entering Canada, it is mandatory to carry proof of citizenship and identity as per Canadian law. For U.S. citizens, a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card serves as proof of citizenship and identity. Children under 16 years old only require proof of U.S. citizenship.

Can You Walk on Rainbow Bridge without a Passport?

We often receive inquiries about crossing the Rainbow Bridge on foot to Canada. It is important to note that you must have your passport or necessary identification with you. If you plan on being dropped off at the bridge, the best location is the corner of Prospect Street and Niagara Street in Niagara Falls, NY.

Vaccine Requirements for Niagra Falls, Ontario (Canada)

You do not need a vaccine to enter Niagra Falls, Canada. However, if you plan on spending extended time in Canada, then vaccinations may be required. Check with your local doctor for up-to-date information regarding inoculation status when traveling abroad.

If you are visiting for business or pleasure and will be away from home for more than one day, having your personal health information on hand is recommended.

This includes any prescription medications and copies of your medical records if you need medical assistance during your stay. You must also check with your healthcare provider about any special travel-related health requirements.

Related Read: Do You Need a Passport to Go to Cancun?

Do You Need a Passport to Visit Canada by Car?

A passport card is an official U.S. Identification card issued to travelers for land and sea border crossings in Canada, Mexico, The Caribbean, and Bermuda exclusively. The passport card, including flights to Canada and Mexico, is not valid for air travel.

The card is less expensive than the passport book at the current price of $130 for the application for travelers 16 and older, $100 for applicants under 16, and has renewal fees in the case of expiration $130. Either way, you should have a passport for Niagara Falls.

US Passport to CanadaDo You Need a Passport to Visit Canada by Plane?

Yes, you do need a passport to fly into Canada. The Passport Book is required for all air travel, and it costs $130 USD plus an additional fee of up to $35 for processing the application.

It is valid for five or ten years, depending upon your age when applying. Always ensure you have a valid passport card or book before leaving for your trip.

If you plan to cross the US/Canadian border by car, boat, or any other transport, you will need a passport card or enhanced driver’s license.

A U.S. Passport book is a verified second form of identification issued to travelers who intend to travel internationally. Unlike the card, this book will allow travelers to fly, drive, and cruise around international borders, which justifies its cost.

Do Kids Need a Passport to Go to Canada?

Does a child need a passport to travel to Canada? It depends on their age and mode of transportation.

When traveling to Canada by land or sea with children under the age of 16, they can use their birth certificates, naturalization certificates, or certificates of citizenship to re-enter the U.S. However, it’s important to note that the US Department of State does not recommend this and suggests obtaining a passport book or passport card for a smoother travel experience.

When traveling to Canada by air, all children must have a valid passport book and meet the specific passport requirements set by Canada.

Related Read: Do You Need a Passport to Go to Jamaica?

Does Canada have a Six Months Passport Rule for Travel to Canada?

No, Canada has no six-month passport rule for traveling to Canada. Canadian authorities require that your travel passport should be valid for your intended stay in Canada. Generally speaking, this is usually considered three months; however, travelers must double-check with the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate prior to traveling, as some exceptions may apply.

Related Read: Six Months Passport Rule

Conclusion

When traveling to Canada by air, all children must have a valid passport book and meet the specific passport requirements set by Canada. It is important to always double-check with the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate before traveling, as some exceptions may apply. Additionally, travelers should also ensure their passport is valid for their intended stay in Canada.