Question for the Canadians....

red_mct

Cathlete
Ladies,

I'm traveling to Niagara Falls next week for a work conference. I'm just curious; how likely is it that I will be asked to produce a passport or birth certificate? I was there years ago and I am pretty sure we brought NO documentation, but of course, times have changed...

Marie
 
A passport is not necessary but I would highly recommended picture ID like a driver's license. I usually show my birth certificate and driver's license. They never seem interested in the birth certificate. Kim
 
Marie - you're going to be a mere 40 minutes from me!!!!!!!!!!

And yes, you definitely need some sort of photo ID.
 
Shelley, will my driver's license suffice? The reason I ask is I don't have a passport and of course now that I need it, I can't find my BC. I can get a copy tomorrow if it's really critical. I have this vision of being turned away at the border and trying to explain to my boss why I don't have appropriate identification, lol.

That's so cool we'll be so close!! Unfortunately I think my every waking moment is accounted for at this seminar, yuck! :) But perhaps I will be able to channel you and find some motivation to work out while surrounded with, I am sure, thousands upon thousands of calories of "resort" food!

Marie
 
I think your DL will be fine.

I'll think hard about you when I'm working out and perhaps you'll catch the vibes and feel inspired:)
 
When next week? I'm gong to Canada tomorrow, I'll be back on Sunday and can let you know what they say. I have a passport, but DH only has his BC. I know we've used that in the past. I've never used just my DL but I'll check. Can you wait until Sunday night or is that too late?
 
Here you go Marie. Right from the Canada Border Services Agency website:

"When you enter Canada, a customs officer may ask to see your passport and a valid visa, if one is necessary. If you are a citizen of the United States, you do not need a passport to enter Canada. However, you should carry proof of your citizenship, such as a birth certificate, certificate of citizenship or naturalization, as well as a photo ID. If you are a permanent resident of the U.S, you should bring your Permanent Resident Card (i.e., green card) with you."
 
I find my passport makes everything go much smoother. Also, if you are driving you will need a Canadian insurance card (your insurance agent/company) can supply with you one.
 
Marie, My husband just traveled to Halifax last week on business. He needed his DL and Birth Cert. They told him in advance that he would need either a passport or Birth Cert. along with his DL. They did ask for it at the border. I guess their getting tougher now.... Probably a good thing. Hope you have fun!
Carolyn
 
I'm flying and have a car service so no worried on the insurance end.

And we were informed a BC or PP were needed; I was just curious if they actually ask you for that documentation. The last time I was in Canada was... 1990.... and I recall the guy at the border just stuck his head in the car to make sure I wasn't a prisoner or anything. I guess my EX must have looked scary. LOL

Anyway, thanks for the input,
Marie
 
I live and work in Niagara Falls, New York, and often travel over the bridge to Canada. Most of the time I'm never asked for any kind of ID, whether entering Canada or coming home to the US. However, you should carry both your picture ID and your birth certificate with you when you go. You may be very surprised to find that the US Border Customs officials will ask for more information than the Canadian officials. It is generally more difficult to enter the US than to enter Canada - they are looking for smugglers of people, drugs, etc., not to mention the terrorism thing. If you have a passport, bring it - it will be easier.

Have a good time! It's a great time of year to visit the Falls, and of course, we've got some great casinos around!
 

Our Newsletter

Get awesome content delivered straight to your inbox.

Top