Recent reports about needing a passport to enter the United States have caused some confusion among travelers. Below is current information on the documents needed and items that can be brought across the US – Canadian border.

Beginning January 2007, all travelers entering the United States must show a proof of citizenship such as a birth certificate or passport and picture ID.  (Note that a driver’s license is not a proof of citizenship)

Travelers other than US citizens, legal US residents and Canadian citizens must have a passport and visa where applicable and must give purpose of their visit and length of stay. For more information, visit the following website: www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca.

Certain plants, fruits, vegetables, meats and prepared meats are prohibited.  Dogs and other pets must have, from their veterinarian,  a recent certificate of a rabies shot noting that the animal does not have any contagious disease. For more information, visit www.cbp.gov. 

Vermont shares a 145 km (90.3 miles) border with the Province of Québec.  Primary crossings are on I-89 and I-91 with smaller crossings along the border.  Information the wait times as the various border crossings can be found at http://apps.cbp.gov/bwt/ (US) or http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/general/times/menu-f.html (CA)

For more information on border crossing, write to: U.S. Customs, PO Box 7407, Washington, D.C. 20044, 202-566-8195; or to the U.S. Customs District Office in St. Albans, VT 05478, 802-524-6527. You can also get more information at the US custom offices in Montréal, 514-636-3875 or Toronto, 416-676-2606.