Travel to Canada

US Passport

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) from the Department of Homeland Security established permanent changes to the process of crossing the U.S. border with Canada. We’ve done the homework for you. Below is everything you need to know, including links to government sites that publish the pertinent info and to resources you may need to secure documentation. If the following does not answer your questions contact us and we will help you figure it out. Use the quick links below to jump to the info you need.

Who Needs What Documents?

  1. U.S. citizens can present a valid: U.S. Passport; Passport Card; Enhanced Driver’s License; Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST); U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders; U.S. Merchant Mariner document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business; or Form I-872 American Indian Card, or (when available) Enhanced Tribal Card. SEE EXCEPTION BELOW!
  2. All minors of under the age of 16 need only their birth certificate, the original or a copy of the original.

Source: U.S. Customs & Border Protection

Exception for Religious Groups: READ THIS!!!

U.S. and Canadian citizen children under the age of 16 (or under 19, if traveling with a school, religious group, or other youth group) need only present a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. The birth certificate can be original, photocopy, or certified copy.

The group should be prepared to present a letter on organizational letterhead with the following information:

  • The name of the group and supervising adult;
  • A list of the children on the trip, and the primary address, phone number, date of birth, place of birth, and the name of at least one parent or legal guardian for each child; and
  • A written and signed statement of the supervising adult certifying that he or she has obtained parental or legal guardian consent for each participating child.

Source: U.S. Customs & Border Protection

How/Where to Get Documents

Passport Card

This will cost a little over $70 ($30 for the Passport Card, $35 for the processing fee and the photos will cost you anywhere from $6 – $20). Follow these steps to get a Passport Card:

  1. Get a Passport Photo. A great place to get your Passport photos is at CVS.
  2. Apply for the Passport Card: To apply for a Passport Card click here. Once you finish the application, print it out, locate the nearest place to turn in your application, and a list of all the items and documentation you need to have with you when you turn your application. Make sure that you send a check or money order with the application to cover the cost. All checks and money orders should be made out to the “Department of State.\”
  3. Time Line: You may choose Routine Service (4-6 week turnaround) or Expedited Service (2-3 week turnaround) for an additional $60 fee.

Source: U.S. State Department Web Page

Passport Book

This will cost a little over $170 ($130 for the Passport, $35 for the processing fee and the photos will cost you anywhere from $6 – $20). Follow these steps to get a Passport Book:

  1. Get a Passport Photo. A great place to get your Passport photos is at CVS.
  2. Apply for the Passport Book: To apply for a Passport click here. Once you finish the application, print it out, locate the nearest place to turn in your application, and a list of all the items and documentation you need to have with you when you turn your application. Make sure that you send a check or money order with the application to cover the cost. All checks and money orders should be made out to the Department of State.
  3. Time Line: You may choose Routine Service (4-6 week turnaround) or Expedited Service (2-3 week turnaround) for an additional $60 fee.

Source: U.S. State Department Web Page

Enhanced Drivers License

Available in the following states:

  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • New York 
  • Vermont 
  • Washington