• Since June 1, 2009, almost all travelers need a passport to enter Canadaus passport image by Albert Lozano from Fotolia.com
  
  Before June 1, 2009, Canada and the United States enjoyed a friendly border agreement, foregoing the requirement of a passport for all nationals of both countries. However, since then, a push for more standardization in documentation has led to requiring almost all travelers to Canada from the U.S. (including U.S. citizens) to hold a valid passport. Some exceptions still apply.
  
  

Passport

• All travelers crossing into Canada will need both proof of identity and proof of citizenship. For those traveling by air, a passport is required. For those traveling by land or sea, a passport, passport card (often called a "pass-card;" a special wallet-sized ID), Enhanced Driver License or an Enhanced ID Card (EDL/ID) is mandatory.
  
  

Nexus Program

• Travelers crossing into Canada from the United States on a regular basis may apply for a Nexus card. Members of the Nexus program are granted use of dedicated lanes for a faster border crossing. To join the program, applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or Canada and must have resided in either or both countries for at least the past three years. Applicants must also pass the law enforcement and criminal history checks of both the U.S. and Canada. The program application form is available online and entails a one-time, non-refundable fee.
  
  

Children

• All parents bringing children to Canada, whether married or divorced, should bring a signed letter of consent from the absent parent regarding traveling with the child in Canada. Divorced parents must additionally bring documents concerning the legal custody of the child. In the case of children under 18 traveling to Canada overland on school trips (accompanied by adults and carrying parental permission), proof of identity is not required. Such students do not need a passport although they are required to provide their birth certificate or an authorized copy.