ID requirements, for travel from US to Canada and back

[Wickerman]

The family is taking a trip out East, (Boston and surrounding areas) this summer and we plan on coming back through Canada. Kind of concerned about what we need to border cross. 3 of us have passports, three don't. On the State Department page I see that as US citizens a photo ID and a birth certificate should be good through this year; next year passports will be required.

Does that sound right for those of you who have traveled back and forth 'tween the US and Canada?

As an important aside, I am looking as forward to the visit to Canada as I am to our trip to the East coast of the US. I haven't been up North for over 30 years. Don't worry, we aren't staying, but we look forward to spending a few days there!

[CHIMO]

1. Can't Give Personal

Knowledge of the rules as I haven't been traveling back and forth for some time.

So I thought that I could find some reference for entry into Canada. Well I haven't found much.

: As a citizen of this country, you do not need a Temporary Resident Visa to visit Canada .

If you plan to visit Canada , you must:

Have a valid travel document, such as a passport;
Be in good health;
Have enough money for your stay. The amount of money you will need can vary with the circumstances of the visit, how long you will stay and whether you will stay in a hotel or with friends or relatives. For more information, ask the Canadian visa office in your country or region.
Convince an immigration officer that you have ties, such as a job, home and family, that will take you back to your country of origin; and
Convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit.
http://207.219.111.92/requirements/steps4_1_1.aspx?id=187

As you can see the site hasn't been updated since August last year. It is also quite vague on what will be considered as a valid travel document.

Sorry that I can't help more.

A suggestion might be to contact a US agency that has up to date information.

Wishing you and your group all the best.

[Wickerman]

2. thank you for your kindness

Good to know what the immigration folks will ask. Thanks for the link!

[Siyahamba]

3. Photo ID and a birth certificate will suffice.

From personal experience.

[Wickerman]

4. great - thanks for info! n/t

[IntravenousDemilo]

5. It's still a good idea to get a passport, though.

You'll need one if you want to go anyplace else. And unlike ours, yours are good for ten years.

[Wickerman]

6. true enough

How long is a Canadian passport good for?

[IntravenousDemilo]

7. Only five, which is a bit of a rip-off.