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USA Identification Requirements

Disclaimer: This information is provided as a service to our visitors and no guarantee is made as to its completeness or correctness. All information should be independently verified with the relevant authorities.

New identification requirements were implemented January 23, 2007 for all individuals entering the United States from Canada and other Western Hemisphere countries. These requirements apply to both returning U.S. citizens and visiting nationals from other countries (including Canada) who enter the U.S. by air.

A passport, NEXUS card, FAST card or other approved documentation is accepted as valid documentation in these instances. A driver’s license is no longer acceptable as valid identification when entering the country via airplane.

The same regulations are expected to be implemented for travelers entering the country by land or sea as of January, 2008. Until that time however, it is still strongly recommended that travelers (including returning U.S. residents) carry a passport with them.

The U.S. Customs and Border Patrol is considering developing a wallet-size passport card that would serve as identification for travelers entering the United States from Canada and some other Western Hemisphere countries. The card is expected to be about the size of a driver’s license or credit card. NEXUS, FAST and other government-approved forms of identification will also be acceptable forms of identification for North American travelers.

According to the CBP Web site, these new security measures have been instituted to improve border security and to standardize global immigration requirements for the United States. Regulations are already in place requiring visitors and returning U.S. citizens from outside the Western Hemisphere to carry passports.

Canadian children who are traveling with friends or family members other than their parents or legal guardians must have a letter stating permission for the child to cross the border.

More Information

U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) telephone numbers for customer service:

  • Local: 202-354-1000

  • Toll-free (from US): 1-877-227-5511.

The above information is presented to assist you in your travels. For additional information, please visit either of the following web sites:

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)

U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP)

 

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