Border Crossing

Are you ready to cross the border?

U.S. and Canadian citizens are no longer be able to cross the US border by simply showing a regular driver's license and other ID.  As of June 1st, 2009 only secure documents will be permissable.  Read details below.

Latest Traveler Identification Requirements from/to Canada & U.S.

NEXUS and FAST Cards Now Accepted Everywhere: Canada will join the United States in recognizing NEXUS and Free and Secure Trade (FAST) trusted traveler program cards as valid identification documents in all lanes at all land and sea border ports of entry beginning Nov. 25

Air, Land or Sea Entry

U.S. and Canadian citizens are required to present one of the following documents for entry into the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda:
  • A valid passport;
  • A Trusted Traveler Program - Nexus, Sentri or Fast/Expres Card;
  • U.S./Canada Passport;
  • State Enhanced Driver's License (DLF)

U.S. & Canadian citizens under the age of 16 or under the age of 19 if travelling with a school, religious, or other youth group, may present a birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Canadian Citizenship card, or a naturalization certificate.  Birth certificates can be an original, photocopy or certified copy.

For further details refer to:

  • Media release January 28, 2009 Buffalo and Fort Erie Pubic Bridge Authority
  • WHTI Accepted Travel Documents January 2009

For further information visit website.
 
Enhanced Ontario Drivers License (EDL)

The province of Ontario announced the launch of their Enhanced Driver’s Licence (EDL) which denotes both identity and citizenship and will be accepted as a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHIT) compliant document and serves as an alternative to a passport to enter the U.S. by land and water only.
The EDL is an acceptable document denoting both identity and citizenship in the course of determining admissibility into Canada.

Please see the following links for detailed information.
http://www.news.ontario.ca/mto/en/2009/05/apply-today-for-your-enhanced-drivers-licence.html
http://www.ontario.ca/en/services_for_residents/ONT05_017865
 

Tips for Crossing the Border

  • Have birth certificates for each child in your vehicle.
  • If travelling with children who are not a part of your immediate family, have a note or proof that the child has permission to cross the border with you.
  • Turn off radios and cell phones when talking to border agents.
  • Declare all fruits, vegetables and plant products, animals, birds, eggs, meat and meat products.
  • Declare all items acquired for personal use.
  • Resident aliens must carry residency cards at all times.
  • Don’t fool around.  Customs and Immigration agents on both sides of the border are law enforcement officials who take their duties very seriously.  Approach inspection booths slowly and follow signage instructions.
  • Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol.
  • Be Patient

Related Links
 
 
http://tourismburlington.com/