Are we going to need passports?

[RainbowsMist]

I've heard conflicting reports that as of Dec 31/06 we'll need passports to cross the border, is this true?

Thanks

 

[tophee99]

As far as I know, this is true. The first date they gave for the passport "law" was Jan. 1,2006........but they announced it so late that everyone who needed it didn't have time to get it done.

 

[digskat]

Our TA emailed us and told us that Jan 1 2007 is that date that you need your passports, but like anything it could be subject to change. I plan on getting our passports likely in the summer. DH and I just crossed the border last month and the only ID we showed was our driver's liscense. I would make sure that when you cross you have appropriate ID. I always take a bill (ie phone or gas) and a current copy of our pay stubs as these show our address etc, I have never had to show them but I thought it was good advice from my mom. Take Care Kat PS this was the first time we were ever asked for ID.

 

[runner26.2]

Effective December 31, 2006 the rules for entry to the US change. If you are entering by air or sea on or after December 31, 2006 you will require a passport. If you are entering the US by land the requirement for a passport will not be implemented until December 31, 2007.

the following is from www.intrepidtraveller.com

December 31, 2006 – Passport or other accepted document required for all air and sea travel to or from Mexico and Canada.

December 31, 2007 – Passport or other accepted document required for all air, sea and land border crossings.

The reference to "other accepted document" does NOT include drivers licence or birth certificate. The bottom line is if you are planning to go to the US you WILL need a passport sooner rather than later.

 

[minnie56]

We are telling our Clients that Passports are needed NOW!!

Last time I crossed at Erie I was specifically asked for my Passport. If it's important that you enter the U.S, I would get a Passpoprt asap.

 

[tone.def]

Why wouldn't you go check on the government website? You want accurate information - go there!


http://www.ppt.gc.ca/can/north_america_e.aspx#us



Do I need a passport to travel to the United States?
Though passports are the document of choice for travel, Canadian citizens do not currently need a passport to travel to the United States from Canada. However, Canadians who are travelling outside Canada are encouraged to obtain a passport, as it is the most widely accepted proof of Canadian identity and citizenship.

In April 2005, the United States Government announced the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) requiring all travellers to and from the Americas, including Canadian citizens, to present a passport to enter or re-enter the United States by December 31, 2007.

The WHTI will be implemented in two phases, as follows:

December 31, 2006 - A passport will be required for all air and sea travel to or from Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda.

December 31, 2007 - The passport requirement will be extended to all land border crossings as well as air and sea travel.

For further information on United States policy, you may consult the US State Department Web site.

 

[minnie56]

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html

Another reliable link.

Just makes good sense IMO to get them now as if they want to 'hold you up' they can and they will! Makes travel much easier...

 

[PrincessNED]

You might as well get them now.

If for no other reason you get an idea what you would look like in a mug shot.

 

[RainbowsMist]

Thanks everyone! I guess we'll begin the process of getting them now.

Thanks again

 

[dsneygirl]

We are telling our Clients that Passports are needed NOW!!

Last time I crossed at Erie I was specifically asked for my Passport. If it's important that you enter the U.S, I would get a Passpoprt asap.

Interesting I cross at Ft Erie all the time and have never been asked for a passport. 9/10 only Drivers license although I always have my BC with me as well.

Here's an interesting article from msnbc last week. This proposal is being fought by politicians and lawmakers in many of the border states.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/12498004/

 

[allie&mattsmom]

Just went to Toronto Friday and only needed to show birth certificate and photo id once we landed in Toronto.