Travellers

1. Will there be increased wait times at border crossings?

Due to increased security measures, there may be some delays. Up-to-date information on border wait times is available, 24 hours a day, at www.ccra.gc.ca/border.

2.Has the number of customs inspections increased?

In general, travelers should expect increased levels of inspection. In addition, the CBSA is assisting the U.S. in conducting random inspections on vehicles leaving Canada.

3. As a Canadian citizen, do I need a passport to enter the U.S.?

To enter the United States, a Canadian citizen must be able to establish both identity and citizenship. Documents that may establish citizenship are: birth certificate, citizenship certificate, and passport. Under current procedures, all travelers may be required to present photo-identification. Note: A Canadian citizen arriving from outside the Western Hemisphere is required to present a passport. Canadian citizens classified as Treaty Trader, Treaty Investor, or Fiancé(e) require a visa. For more Information, please visit the following U.S. Web sites: · U.S. Department of Homeland Security · U.S. Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services

4. Has Canada changed its identification requirements for entering the country?

Requirements remain unchanged at present. For more information, please visit the Citizenship and Immigration Web site at www.cic.gc.ca/english/index.html.

5. What can I do to avoid delays at the border?

You must ensure that you are carrying with you the necessary documentation and adequate identification. You can find information on customs requirements and border wait times, 24 hours a day, at www.ccra.gc.ca/border. If possible, avoid the periods of heaviest traffic and the busiest customs offices.

Entry into Canada for Foreign Nationals with Criminal Convictions or Equivalent

As of June 28, 2002, the implementation of the new Immigration and Refugee Protection Act changed the rules affecting the admissibility into Canada of foreign nationals who have criminal convictions in Canada or abroad or who have committed criminal acts outside Canada. These include offences that are considered criminal in Canada, such as driving while under the influence of a substance such as alcohol, even if the offence was not considered a felony or criminal offence in the country where it was committed.

For more information about these very important changes, download this Fact Sheet.