HOW TO CROSS THE BORDER INTO NIAGARA FALLS CANADA
The 8,891 km (5,525 mile) long border between the USA and Canada allows around 400,000 people to cross daily, including about 6,000 vehicles over our Rainbow Bridge right here in Niagara Falls.
With many US customers coming across to visit Niagara Falls and enjoy our walking tours, we wanted to put together this border crossing guide to help answer some of the most common questions.
WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED TO ENTER CANADA FROM THE US?
The best and shortest answer is a valid passport. This is the most universally accepted proof of citizenship when crossing from the US into Canada.
Let’s hear it from the Canadian and US governments:
“All international travelers must carry acceptable identification and a valid visa (if necessary*) when entering Canada. A passport is recommended because it is the only reliable and universally-accepted travel and identification document for the purpose of international travel.”
- Government of Canada
^ Tourist Visas are not required for stays under 180 days.
“Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry proof of citizenship and identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens. Children under 16 only need proof of U.S. citizenship.”
- US Department of State
Other forms of ID such as an enhanced driver’s license from New York State or other participating states MAY allow you to cross the border into Canada (more on this below) but it doesn’t feel worth the risk.
If you do not have the proper documents, you may be delayed or refused entry into Canada and risk missing your Niagara Falls tour! :(
CAN YOU ENTER INTO CANADA FROM THE US USING AN ENHANCED DRIVERS LICENSE INSTEAD OF A PASSPORT?
Yes. According to both the Department of Homeland Security and the Government of Canada, an enhanced drivers license is sufficient to cross the border from the US into Canada.
The states that participate in the enhanced driver’s license program are:
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- New York
- Vermont
- Washington
If you’re traveling from a state which does not participate in the EDL program, you will be required to show passport at the border in order to gain entry into Canada.
WHAT DOCUMENTS DO KIDS NEED TO CROSS THE BORDER FROM THE US INTO CANADA?
According to Travel.State.Gov, children under 16 years old entering into Canada do not require a passport. However they still do require proof of citizenship (which usually means the original copy of their birth certificate or a Naturalization Certificate).
NOTE: If the child is traveling across the border without both parents, it’s highly recommended to bring a letter of consent from the other parent to show the border officials. Due to concerns of traffic and abductions there are often heightened security measures at the border.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO CROSS THE RAINBOW BRIDGE FROM THE US INTO CANADA?
Assuming there is no special issue with your travel documents or vehicle, crossing the rainbow bridge from the US into Canada takes approximately:
- 5 minutes if you’re walking or biking (and don’t forget the $1 toll!)
- 30 minutes if you’re driving, including customs (don’t forget the $5 USD or $6.50 CDN toll!)
It’s always a good idea to look ahead to expected wait times on sources like these before you get there so you know what to expect.
Wait times can vary a lot depending on time of day, day of the week and time of year (especially holidays!)
Walk Niagara Tours offers all-inclusive walking tours of Niagara Falls. Our tour guides lead groups 7 days a week between April and November.