Do you need a passport to go to Canada? US guide

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or crossing the border for business, many Americans visit Canada every year. You can drive through one of the many land border crossings or catch a flight to major Canadian cities.

But do you need a passport to go to Canada?

Showing your US passport is the most straightforward and recommended way to get into Canada. However, the Canadian government does accept other forms of ID if you're an American. Here's everything you need to know.

We'll also introduce the Wise account, which allows you to send, spend, and receive your money across the globe in over 40 currencies – all at the fair mid-market rate.

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Do Americans need a passport to go to Canada?

Yes. It's the easiest and most reliable form of ID to cross the Canadian border. If you don't have a valid US passport, you can also prove your identity with:¹

• An original or certified copy of your birth certificate
• A certificate of citizenship or naturalization
• A certificate of Indian status paired with photo identification

However, these options aren't recommended and can create potential issues when trying to enter Canada. The Government of Canada website clearly states that "a passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document when abroad."¹

So, while it's technically possible to enter Canada with a birth certificate, do your best to bring a valid US passport instead.

If you're a US permanent resident, you must carry both proof of your original citizenship and evidence of your permanent resident status in the US, such as a valid Green Card.

If you're a US permanent resident entering Canada directly from the US, you may not need to show your passport to border officers. Your valid Green Card should cover the requirement.¹

However, it's still a good idea to have your passport with you.

Do you need a passport to get into Canada by car?

Ideally, yes. However, when driving into Canada, you have a bit more flexibility with your ID than when flying.

US citizens can cross the border by car using a passport, birth certificate, or other accepted forms of citizenship proof, like a certificate of naturalization.¹ Your driver's license works as a photo ID to go along with your birth certificate.

Even though these alternatives are technically allowed, border officers still prefer passports. They're easier to verify and speed up the crossing process for everyone.

Can you drive into Canada with just a driver's license?

No, a driver's license alone won't get you into Canada. You need to prove you're a US citizen, and a driver's license only shows that you can legally drive in the US.

You'll need to pair your driver's license with proof of citizenship, like your valid US passport.¹

Do you need a passport to fly into Canada?

Yes. While Canada might accept your birth certificate and driver's license at the border, airlines have their own rules.

Many airlines require a passport for international flights, even to Canada. In other words, if you don't bring yours, you could get stuck at the airport before you even take off.

Can I use my birth certificate to go to Canada?

Yes, US citizens can use their birth certificate to enter Canada.¹ You'll also need photo identification like your driver's license to go with it.

However, you might run into complications and face more questions from border officers when trying to cross. You also usually can't fly with a birth certificate.

Do children need a passport to go to Canada?

Yes, children follow the same ID rules as adults. Children who are US citizens can enter Canada with a valid passport, birth certificate, or other proof of citizenship.¹

When crossing the border with a child, you need to bring copies of any custody documents if they apply to your situation. You'll also need a consent letter if you share custody with someone who isn't traveling with you, or if you're not the child's parent or legal guardian.¹

Spend like a local in Canada with the Wise Account

Withdrawing your travel money with a card once you arrive in Canada will usually get you a more favorable exchange rate compared to changing cash in the US. Choose a Wise account and multi-currency card, and you could get an even better deal on spending and withdrawals in Canada.

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Canada border requirements: Full guide

All US citizens must show proper ID and meet basic entry requirements when crossing into Canada. You don't need a Canadian passport, visa, or electronic travel authorization (eTA), and you can stay for up to 180 days without any special paperwork.¹²

"Proper ID" usually means a valid US passport. If you don't have one, you can use your birth certificate, a certificate of citizenship or naturalization, or a certificate of Indian status plus a photo ID.¹ However, a passport is the most recommended option.

If you're a US permanent resident, you'll need a valid Green Card and proof of your original citizenship, such as a valid passport or birth certificate.¹

Some people are "inadmissible" and banned from entering Canada. You could be turned away for criminal activity, human rights violations, or connections to organized crime. "Criminal activity" can include driving under the influence (including cannabis).³

What do you need to travel back from Canada to the US?

Getting back into the US has its own set of rules.

If you're flying home, you must have a US passport book. But if you're driving, the US accepts passport cards and Trusted Traveler program cards at land and sea crossings.⁴

Green Card holders need their permanent resident card (Form I-551) to get back in. If your Green Card application is still pending, bring your advance parole document (Form I-512) instead.⁴

It's virtually impossible for border officers to deny you entry into the US if you're a citizen, but not having proper documentation often leads to lengthy delays. You may find yourself waiting for hours while officials verify your citizenship status.

As an American, you technically have a few different options for traveling to Canada, but a passport makes everything simpler and faster.

It's the one form of ID that works everywhere: getting into Canada, boarding planes, and returning to the US without delays or extra questions.

If you're taking a trip to Canada and want to save on spending money abroad, use the Wise Multi-Currency Card. It makes it easy to spend money like a local in Canada with no exchange rate markups.

Sources

1. Government of Canada - Travel and identification documents for entering Canada
2. US Department of State - Canada
3. Government of Canada - Inadmissibility
4. US Customs and Border Protection - Before Your Trip