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U.S. Passport Requirements for Canadians
by Leigh Reason
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Overview
U.S. Passport Requirements for Canadians
As of June 1, 2009, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection put stringent changes into effect in regards to Canadian citizens traveling back and forth between Canada and U.S. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) was mandated by Congress in 2004, but it didn't go into full effect until June 2009. This new mandate states that every citizen of Canada, including newborns and infants, must present a valid passport, passport card or WHTI-compliant document when entering or re-entering the U.S. by any mode of transportation.
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How to Obtain a Canadian Passport
Canada recently simplified its passport renewal process for passport holders who applied for passports when they were at least 16 years old, and their most recent passport has been valid for five years, issued in Canada within the last six years, undamaged, never reported lost or stolen and issued under your current name. If you meet those requirements, fill out the Adult Simplified Renewal Passport Application, send two photos, the current fees and your old passport to Passport Canada. If you don't meet the above requirements, fill out the general adult or child application, submit proof of Canadian citizenship and proof of identity.
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Tips on Canadian Passports
Photo requirements for Canadian passports are strict and your application will be returned if photos do not follow the guidelines set by Passport Canada. The most common reasons photos are deemed unsuitable include visible shadows, reflection on your glasses, smiling in the photo and improper stamping on the back of the photo. Make sure the photo is taken by a professional who knows about Canadian passport photos. All documents submitted with your application must be the originals; copies are not acceptable.
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Canadians Living in the U.S. as Permanent Residents
If you are a Canadian living in the United States as a permanent resident or on any kind of visa, you still need to carry a valid Canadian passport to re-enter the U.S. Make sure to carry your permanent resident card or visa at all times when crossing the U.S. border.
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Other WHTI-Compliant Documents
The following travel documents can be used in lieu of passports for land and sea entry and re-entry into the U.S for Canadians: Trusted Traveler Cards (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST), enhanced tribal cards, military ID with military travel orders or a Native American tribal photo ID card.
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Trusted Traveler Programs
The Trusted Traveler Programs of NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST are programs that were created to expedite travel and bolster trade relations between the U.S. and Canada. Both the United States and Canada must approve your application, but there is just one application and fee submission. You must have been a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S. or Canada for at least three years and clear a background check before being issued a NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST card. You can apply online at goes-app.cbp.dhs.gov.
