About Crossing the Border
The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is a U.S. law that requires all travelers, including U.S. and Canadian citizens, to present a valid passport or other approved secure document when entering the United States from within the western hemisphere. The U.S. WHTI is being implemented in stages by mode of transportation.
The new document requirements were implemented for air travel in January 2007, requiring all travelers to present a valid passport, including children of any age. Final document requirements for those seeking to enter the United States at land or water ports of entry will take effect June 1, 2009.
Currently, all travelers ages 19 and older, including citizens of the United States, Canada, and Bermuda, entering or departing the United States by land or sea need to present a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver¹s license), as well as proof of citizenship(such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate). Children ages 18 and younger need to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. Passports, passport cards and trusted traveler program cards - NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST - continue to be accepted for cross-border travel.
On June 1, 2009, all travelers, including citizens of the United States, Canada and Bermuda, entering or re-entering the United States will be required to have a passport, passport card or WHTI-compliant document For more information about entry into the United States, visit the US Customs and Border Security website at www.cbp.gov or www.getyouhome.gov. Additional information may also be found on the US Department of State website at www.travel.state.gov or the US Department of Homeland Security website at www.dhs.gov.
For current information concerning entering or leaving Canada, please visit www.cbsa.gc.ca.
Foreign nationals should contact their respective governments to obtain passport and US visa information.
