Travel to the US

The United States is a welcoming and very popular destination that offers limitless possibilities for visitors from around the world. However, it is important to be prepared to ensure a smooth trip in and out of the US, whether it’s just for a vacation, visiting family and friends, for medical treatment, or even for business/educational pursuits.

Travel Advisories/Warnings

Check your specific destination and its situation before traveling. Still, it doesn’t mean you are not permitted to go on your trip. It’s best to be aware and take precautions wherever you travel.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Every country or territory has different rules when you enter and exit through its borders. If you are planning to visit the US, make sure your passport and all other travel documents are current for the duration of your stay.

• Passport/Visa
  

  Since entry rules may differ and change, you can verify information with Foreign Diplomatic Missions and Consulates in Canada.

  For more information about Canadian passports, temporary passports, or an emergency travel document: Canadian Passports Services and Information. When it comes to visas, Canadian citizens are not required to have one when entering the US, but there are some exceptions that you can read here: Canadians Requiring Visas.

• Dual Citizenship
  

  Although US authorities do not formally require dual nationals to carry both passports, having them both (US & Canadian passport) may facilitate your entry into the US and return to Canada.

• Traveling with Kids
  

  In addition to entry requirements, Canadian citizens aged 18 and below under adult supervision must present a written consent from their own parent/guardian. Any adult traveling with kids may be required to show evidence of parental, custodial, or access rights to prove that the child has the consent of the parent(s), legal guardian(s), or the court. If there’s any concern about child custody, consult a Canadian lawyer before traveling.

Useful links:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
  
• Trusted Traveler Programs
  
• Enhanced Driver's License by United States Homeland Security

Health and Insurance

There are many options if you need medical attention while traveling in the US. Before leaving home, check with your health insurance provider to see if you are covered while traveling in the US. If so, make sure you carry your insurance card with you. If not, consider getting a travel health insurance that will cover you during your travels. Healthcare costs can be expensive if you are not adequately covered. Also, check that your insurance provider covers medical evacuation in the event you need to be brought home via medical transport.

Natural Disasters & Climate

Natural disasters can occur any time. You must remain alert via the media and modify your travel arrangements accordingly. These are some useful links about natural disasters:

• Hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones, and monsoons;
• Large-scale emergencies abroad;
• United States’ National Hurricane Center;
• Hawaii Volcano Observatory & Hawaii County Civil Defense;
• The USGS latest earthquakes & tsunami warning system; and
• The U.S. National Severe Storms Laboratory for tornadoes