Senate Committee Would Delay New Passport Rules

A Senate committee late last month voted in favor of an amendment that would delay overhauling the nation's passport system. Under the amendment approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee, the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), the initiative would not be implemented until June 2009, 17 months later than proposed. In addition, the measure would require the secretaries of State and Homeland Security to certify to Congress that several standards are met before the program begins. The measure, which was promoted and backed by the American Bus Association, was offered by senators Ted Stevens of Alaska and Patrick Leahy of Vermont.  Senator Leahy said in a statement that delay of WHTI is needed because of a lack of coordination on the Passport Card system between federal agencies and the Canadian government.

Eliminating the Barriers to Cross-Border Tourism Development

TRAVELER IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR LAND BORDER
CROSSINGS IN 2006

 

1. U.S. Visitors to Canada/Canadian Visitors to U.S.:

Be prepared to verify your CITIZENSHIP (place of birth) and IDENTITY (photo ED.) with such documents as a Birth Certificate, Passport, Drivers License, NEXUS/FAST card, Naturalization Certificate, Visa or Green Card. Baptismal Certificate, Citizenship Card, Record of Landing, or Permanent Resident Card.

If you are traveling with children, you should carry identification for each child. Divorced parents, who share custody, should carry copies of the legal custody documents.

Travelers under the age of 18 and unaccompanied by a parent need a letter of permission from a parent or guardian.

2. Citizens of other Countries:

Must have a valid Passport (and may also require a Visitor's Visa).

For additional information on exceptions to the standard requirements as well as duty-free limits, please refer to:

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) www.chsa.gc.ca

OR

U.S. Department of State www.travel.state.gov