Do You Need a Passport To Go To Canada [2023]?

Are you a traveler looking to take a trip out of the country but confused about what documents you need to make it happen? Are you considering Canada as your destination of choice and wondering if a passport is needed to enter the country?

If so, then this post was made for you! We will explore what travel documents are necessary when entering Canada in 2023 so that your vacation plans can get off on the right foot. Read on for all the essential information.

What Documents are Required to Enter Canada 2023?

A passport is required for U.S. citizens when entering the country by air, land, or sea.  However, proof of U.S. citizenship must be provided in some form, and the regulations for reentering the United States are far less relaxed.  Be sure to plan.   The choices of required documentation for entrance into Canada include:

Canadian law requires all persons entering Canada to carry proof of citizenship and identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens.

  • U.S. Passport Book
  • U.S. Passport Card
  • U.S. Permanent Resident Card
  • Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
  • NEXUS Card
  • FAST Card

Children under the age of 16 may not have a U.S. Passport or Government Issued Photo Identification.  In these cases, an original, certified copy or photocopy of a U.S. Birth Certificate is necessary. Other options include a U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Certificate of U.S. Naturalization.

Reentering the United States

The regulations for gaining reentry into the United States from Canada will depend on the method of transportation.  Many Americans make the mistaken assumption that a valid U.S. Driver’s License is all that is required.  This is not the case.  For U.S. citizens returning by air or sea, a U.S. Passport is required.   For those arriving by land, the following options are considered valid:

For children under the age of 16, the same forms of documentation used to gain entry into Canada apply for reentry into the United States.  For information on obtaining a valid passport, call or visit your local post office.  But plan ahead.   The application process may take several weeks.