Planning a trip from the US to Canada? Whether you are drawn to Toronto's cosmopolitan buzz, the French charm of Quebec, Niagara Falls, or the Rocky Mountains, crossing the border is usually easy, but it is not quite as simple as crossing a state line. This guide covers the documents you need, how to get there, money, health and safety, and staying connected.
Pre-Travel Checklist
Passports and Travel Documents
- By air: US citizens need a valid US passport book.
- By land or sea: US citizens can use a passport, a passport card, a NEXUS card, or an enhanced driver's license from participating states.
- Children: Minors traveling with only one parent, or with other adults, should carry a consent letter from the absent parent or parents.
- Criminal records: Some past convictions, including DUIs, can make you inadmissible to Canada. Check the rules before you travel.
Visas and eTAs
US citizens do not need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to visit Canada. US lawful permanent residents (green card holders) need an eTA when flying to Canada and must carry their green card and passport. Other nationalities living in the US should check whether they need an eTA or a visitor visa on the official Government of Canada website.
Travel Insurance
US health insurance may not cover care in Canada, and medical costs for visitors can be high. Buy travel medical insurance before you go.
Driving in Canada
A valid US driver's license is accepted for visitors. Carry proof of insurance and check that your policy, or your rental agreement, covers driving in Canada. Remember that speed limits and distances are in kilometers, and fuel is sold by the liter.
Getting from the US to Canada
- By air: Frequent flights connect US cities to Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, and more. Several Canadian airports offer US preclearance for the return trip.
- By car: Popular crossings include Detroit-Windsor, Buffalo-Niagara, and Blaine-Surrey near Seattle. Expect questions about your plans and any goods you are carrying. Check border wait times online before you leave.
- By train or bus: Amtrak runs cross-border routes such as the Adirondack (New York to Montreal), the Maple Leaf (New York to Toronto), and the Cascades (Seattle to Vancouver), and intercity buses cross too.
- By sea: Ferries link Washington State to Victoria, British Columbia, and cruises sail along both coasts.
At the Border: What to Know
- Declare all goods, including food, alcohol, tobacco, and gifts, and cash of CAD 10,000 or more.
- Firearms are strictly regulated. Most handguns are prohibited, and all firearms must be declared.
- Cannabis is legal in Canada, but taking it across the border in either direction is illegal.
- Fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and plants may be restricted.
Safety and Health Tips
- Emergencies: Call 911, just like in the US.
- Health care: Visitors pay for medical care, so carry your insurance details.
- Wildlife: Keep your distance from bears, moose, and elk, and never feed wildlife.
- Weather: Winters can be extremely cold, so pack accordingly and use winter tires if driving.
Money Matters
Canada uses the Canadian dollar (CAD), with colorful polymer bills, the one-dollar "loonie," and the two-dollar "toonie." Credit cards and contactless payments are accepted almost everywhere, but carry a little cash for small vendors and rural areas. Use a card without foreign transaction fees, and choose to pay in CAD when asked. Tipping customs are similar to the US, around 15 to 20% in restaurants. Sales taxes are added at the register and vary by province.
Stay Connected in Canada
Many US mobile plans charge for roaming in Canada or slow your data. An egoViet Canada eSIM gives you local data without roaming fees, and you can keep your US number active for calls and texts. Install it before you leave, and switch to it when you cross the border.
Planning your itinerary? Read our Canada travel guide and our fun facts about Canada.
FAQs: US to Canada Travel
Do US citizens need a passport to go to Canada?
Yes for air travel. By land or sea, a passport card, NEXUS card, or enhanced driver's license is also accepted.
Do Americans need an eTA for Canada?
No. US citizens do not need an eTA or a visa. US green card holders need an eTA to fly to Canada.
Can I use my US driver's license in Canada?
Yes. Visitors can drive in Canada with a valid US driver's license.
Can I bring food into Canada from the US?
Some foods are allowed, but fresh produce, meat, and dairy may be restricted. Declare all food at the border.