Passport and Travel Documents
Travelling to the U.S.A.
A valid passport is required for all Canadians passengers, including children, who fly to the United States. Citizens of other countries might also be required to have a visa to travel to the United States.
Q: How do I apply for a Canadian Passport?
A: Canadian passports are issued for five years by the government of Canada. Applications are available online or at any Canada Post office. Note that because of increased volume, passport applications can take up to 10 weeks to process. For details visit Passport Canada.
Q: Are there exceptions to the passport rule?
A: Under the U.S. law known as the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), as of January 2007, anyone who travels by air to the United States must show one of the following valid documents:
- A valid passport.
- A NEXUS card when used at a NEXUS kiosk at designated airports.
- A valid Merchant Mariner’s Document for U.S. citizens.
- Valid U.S. military identification and orders, when travelling on active duty.
Q: How do I obtain a NEXUS card?
A: A joint operation of the Canadian Border Services Agency and United States Customs and Border Protection, NEXUS allows pre-screened, low-risk travellers the option of purchasing a biometric identification card to speed border clearance into both countries. For more information or to apply, visit www.nexus.gc.ca.
Q: Do I need a visa to travel to the United States?
A: Canadians with no criminal record who fly to the United States for pleasure must have a valid Canadian passport but generally do not need a visa. However, a visa may be required for Canadians going to the United States for work, business, study or to live there. Other rules apply for citizens of other countries. For more information about visas and visa waiver programs visit the U.S. State Department.
Q: I am travelling through the United States to a third country such as Mexico. Do I need a passport?
A: Yes. All passengers travelling nonstop from Edmonton to a U.S. airport clear U.S. Customs at Edmonton International Airport, even if their ultimate destination is a third country such as Mexico.
Q: Can’t my children travel on my passport?
A: Since Dec. 11, 2001, separate passports have been required for all children, including newborns. For details, visit the Passports for Children page at Passports Canada.