Passport Question

[kgadley01]

The wife and I, and another couple are planing a trip up threw the New England states and on to Nova Scotia this early summer. Are we required to have Passports to go to Nova Scotia or Quebec. Thanks in advance for any info. Kenny G.

[PAULBACH]

Bottom line: As of June 1, 2009, everyone from every country that comes to Canada by air, land and sea needs a passport or equivalent travel document.

Before June 1, 2009, U.S. citizens do not necessarily need a passport entering Canada by land or sea, but need valid ID that proves identity and citizenship.

For complete details click here. (http://gocanada.about.com/od/canadatraveloverview/qt/uscitizenborder.htm)

[heavyjetpfe]

I used my passport last year to enter Canada and it was easy. They scanned my passport and I was on my way. How ever the group of riders ahead of us had some difficulty. It seems Canada can and will refuse entry if they deem you undesireable. As in a DUI or a felony conviction or even just a bad rep like prof. Ayers. It actualy took longer to clear US customs comming back than Canada's

[wmubrown]

For complete details click here. (http://gocanada.about.com/od/canadatraveloverview/qt/uscitizenborder.htm)

Best practice: HAVE A PASSPORT! I don't care what the published information says, I have seen people turned away from the border when driving into Canada - despite valid birth certificate and US driver's license. The wind changes daily (or used to) so have a passport ready. I have not crossed the border in 1.5 years now so my info could be dated.

[32232]

The absolute requirement for a passport as of June 1, 2009 is a requirement under the Western Hemisphere Trade Initiative, a US law, to enter the United States.

The Catch-22 is if you go to Canada without a passport after that date, (Canadian immigration law requires proof of citizenship, which might be a birth certificate or green card) you won't be able to return to the US.

[kgadley01]

Thanks guys, looks like we will be getting Passports. Kenny...

[CanadianSteve]

Although I am a resident of the United States, I am still a citizen of Canada, so I travel with my Canadian passport, and my "green card " which is required for me to return to the United States. We have a cottage in Nova Scotia, so travel across the border several times each year. My American born wife however, now REQUIRES a passport to RETURN to the United States from Canada, I show just my card, as the American authorities are not interested in my Canadian passport !Canadian immigration really has only checked my identification at the border, not hers. As mentioned previously the United States is more strict. So if you have the time I would recommend that you get passports. Have a fun trip as well, my tip to you for Nova Scotia is that many of the roads are very rough, frost heaves and pavement cracks especially, so you need motorcycles with good suspension ! Very nice people though. Enjoy !
Steve:ca

[r11rs94]

Although I am a resident of the United States, I am still a citizen of Canada, so I travel with my Canadian passport, and my "green card " which is required for me to return to the United States. We have a cottage in Nova Scotia, so travel across the border several times each year. My American born wife however, now REQUIRES a passport to RETURN to the United States from Canada, I show just my card, as the American authorities are not interested in my Canadian passport !Canadian immigration really has only checked my identification at the border, not hers. As mentioned previously the United States is more strict. So if you have the time I would recommend that you get passports. Have a fun trip as well, my tip to you for Nova Scotia is that many of the roads are very rough, frost heaves and pavement cracks especially, so you need motorcycles with good suspension ! Very nice people though. Enjoy !
Steve:ca

Hi steve, I see you live right over the RI line. Stop by one our meeting some time, if you so not mind small clubs that is. www.oceanstatebmwriders.com

[enfoman]

I distinctly remember that I mailed out my passport app. the day after labor day and the passport was on my doorstep on Sept 11 of last year! Very fast turn around considering the Post Office said it would takes weeks.

Bob

[ptero]

Also contact your vehicle insurance company for a proof of insurance card for Canada. No big deal till you get a speeding ticket or had a traffic incident. The card is bilingual and required.

Agreed. And it should be provided for no charge from your insurance company.

[PineGreen]

There is also a passport card. My SO and I have them. They are the size of a credit card and are cheaper and quicker to obtain than a full fledged Passport. They will work for Canada and Mexico only.

[rcliffor]

Just get a passport....it will also make it easier for air travel as the new I.D. rules take effect.

[Acejones]

b52g missed a little part of the passport card. It is also good in certain caribbean nations.

[Braddog]

I distinctly remember that I mailed out my passport app. the day after labor day and the passport was on my doorstep on Sept 11 of last year! Very fast turn around considering the Post Office said it would takes weeks.

Bob

I got mine last spring, and, yes, it took less than 2 weeks. It's really no big deal to get one these days if you've got the right documentation, i.e. birth certificate, social security card, etc.

[username]

+1 on the "just get a passport" advice. it's really smart to get one before you know you are going on a trip and will need one - that way it's not stressful.

it's also a great back-up photo ID if you lose your wallet or get robbed.

[AKBeemer]

There is also a passport card. My SO and I have them. They are the size of a credit card and are cheaper and quicker to obtain than a full fledged Passport. They will work for Canada and Mexico only.

I recommend getting both. Getting the card is easy if you already have a passport. Using the card is easier than a full passport for Canada and Mexico and if you lose the card you'll still have the passport as back-up.