Taking DD's friend to Canada (driving)... Docs needed?

[Stinasmom]

Hi all!

We are driving into Eastern BC later this month and want to take my DD's friend (they are 13 yrs old).

We all have passports but the friend only has a birth certificate.
Does anyone know the current regulations for entering Canada AND returning to the US with kids... specifically ones that aren't yours?

I am guessing we may need an notarized note from her mom, there is no dad in her life. But if this isn't necessary, it's one less hassle...

Or, does anyone know where I can find this info?

TIA!

 

[buckler]

There is info on this page that might be what you need.

http://www.getyouhome.gov/html/lang_eng/eng_sa.html

 

[abdmom]

You need a notarized letter from both parents OR a notarized letter from mom + a copy of the papers that give mom sole legal custody. Also each person needs a passport or a nexus card. Just a birth certificate is not sufficient.

 

[SandrA9810]

You can't legally reenter the United States on a birth certificate alone. Although I have heard you may enter Canada with your birth certificate and government ID.

I think your daughter's friend might have to sit this one out. It cost extra to expedite a passport application. Although if you're driving or going by a cruise, you may use the passport card which is cheaper, but not allow for flying. And only good for bordering countries. Canada, Mexico, and the Bahamas.

 

[daughtersrus]

This won't help with your DD's friend but there are some states (I know that Michigan is one of them) that issue "enhanced drivers licenses" that allow you to go to Canada and come back without a passport.

 

[golfgal]

You need a notarized letter from both parents OR a notarized letter from mom + a copy of the papers that give mom sole legal custody. Also each person needs a passport or a nexus card. Just a birth certificate is not sufficient.

If you are 15 or under you do not need a passport when traveling to and from Canada

Children: Beginning June 1, 2009, U.S. and Canadian citizen children under age 16 arriving by land or sea from contiguous territory may also present an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Naturalization Certificate, or a Canadian Citizenship Card.

http://www.getyouhome.gov/html/lang_eng/eng_sa.html

 

[Gigi22]

You will need some sort of written authorization from your DD's friend's mother authorizing you to seek medical attention for her child, should the need arise. You should all have travel health insurance as well--our provincial health insurance does not cover visitors to the country.