In the past, tourists could cross the border between the United States and Canada simply by providing some proof of citizenship–a birth certificate, a driver’s license, or an expired passport.

In 2008, the rules changed.

While there are some exceptions, assume that a valid passport is required for travel between the United States and Canada.

U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays of less than six months.

For information for citizens of other countries, and for the latest on the documents required to visit Canada, get details from Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

You can also read more about visiting Canada in the Travel & Immigration section of this website.

– Excerpted (in part) from the book, Living Abroad in Canada. To read more, buy the book.

Photo ©Carolyn B. Heller