Regulations for Crossing the Canadian Land Border

• When crossing the Canadian border, several laws must be observed.o' canada image by Kathryn Palmer from Fotolia.com
  
  In order to cross the Canadian land border, all individuals must carry proof of identity and proof of citizenship, whether entering or leaving Canada. As with all international borders, certain products are not allowed to be imported, such as animal and plant products, and animals. Larger transportation vehicles must obey rules and regulation established by specific government branches and agencies of both the United States and Canada.
  
  

Documents for Travelers

• The Canadian Border Services Agency determines who may enter Canada. U.S citizens must carry either a valid passport, passport card or NEXUS card. (See Reference 1) NEXUS is a program that aims to facilitate the border crossing process for low-risk, preapproved travelers. (See Reference 4) If a person who wishes to cross the border does not have any of these documents, then they should present a government-issued photo ID, and proof of U.S. citizenship such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate or an expired passport. Citizens who have a criminal record can be denied the right to enter the country and must obtain a special waiver if they wish to enter. This does not apply to children under 16, who only need to present a birth certificate. (See Reference 1)
  
  

Import Products

• The Canadian Food Inspection Agency regulates the import of animal products, plant products and pet imports over the Canadian border. Animal products include animal pathogens, animal products and byproducts, live animals, semen and embryos, pets and veterinary biologics. Plant products include wood packing material, grains and field crops, insects, potatoes and seeds. The CFIA has import guidelines for the following animals: amphibians and reptiles, birds from the United States and other countries, cats, dogs, fish, foxes, skunks, raccoons, ferrets, horses, rodents, scorpions or spiders, primates and rabbits. Any of those animals can be refused entry if their owners lack the proper permits. The same applies for animal and plant products. (See Reference 3)
  
  

Transport Vehicles

• Several laws regulate the mass transportation of products across the U.S.-Canadian border. Canada's Freight Integration and Motor Carrier Policy monitors and provides advice concerning transportation issues while working with the U.S. department of transportation. (See Reference 3) Another agency, the Transportation Border Working Group, facilitates the movement of people and goods across the border in a way that is safe, environmentally responsible, efficient and secure. (See References 5)
  
  Contact information:
  
  The Canada-United States Transportation Border Working Group
  
  David Franklin
  
  U.S. - Canadian Border Coordinator
  
  U.S. Federal Highways Administration
  
  708-283-3540
  
  http://www.thetbwg.org/index_e.htm