Canadian Border Crossing Checklist

Canadian Border Crossing Requirements
Straddling the border of the United States and Canada, Rainy Lake provides the opportunity for visitors to explore a foreign country. Although it’s not a difficult process to cross the US/Canadian border, some documentation is required and knowing what you need ahead of time can speed the process.

Crossing the Bridge
To get to Canada, you simply drive or walk across the International Bridge from International Falls to its sister city, Fort Frances, Ontario. Keep in mind, there is a toll bridge of $7 for vehicles crossing the bridge. If you plan on crossing frequently throughout your stay, you can find a discounted border crossing card at local grocery stores and gas stations. If driving, you will need to provide a driver’s license as well as vehicle registration. Border officials are always on the lookout for stolen vehicles or people trying to avoid duties on vehicles purchased out of country. Traveling in a rental car requires additional documentation, which you can learn more about at ezbordercrossing.com.

When you approach the officer, it's best to remove sunglasses and roll down your windows (including back windows if there are passengers sitting in back seats). 

Entering Canada
Although it’s not required, a passport is strongly recommended when crossing from the U.S. into Canada. In lieu of a passport, you will need to provide other documentation such as a birth certificate, a certificate of citizenship or naturalization, or a Certificate of Indian Status, plus a photo ID.

Entering the United States
One thing to understand about traveling to Canada is that the requirements to enter the U.S. are stricter than those to enter Canada. A good rule of thumb, therefore, is to follow the U.S. requirements, which will ensure you are also covered for Canadian travel.

When arriving by land or water you must present one of the following to enter the United States:

• Valid Passport or United States Passport Card
• A Trusted Traveler Card such as NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST or an Enhanced Driver’s License
• U.S. Military ID (must be traveling on official orders)
• A current Merchant Marine Document in conjunction with maritime business
• Resident card (Form I-551) or other valid evidence of permanent residence status

Traveling with Children
In addition to theft, fraud and other crimes, customs officers are vigilant about preventing child abduction. Therefore, when traveling with children, you may be asked for additional information.
Children under age 16 may enter the U.S. or Canada using one of the following:

• U.S. or Canadian Passport
• Original or copy of Birth Certificate
• Naturalization Certificate
• Canadian Citizenship Card
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad

Be aware that customs officers may question kids old enough to speak for themselves. Prepare them in advance to talk to the officials and explain to them how this helps protect children from abduction. There are additional requirements for children traveling with only one parent. For more information, visit ezbordercrossing.com.

Visiting Canada can be a memorable part of your trip to Rainy Lake. Being prepared ahead of time helps ensure your border crossing will take only minutes, giving you more time to get to know our neighbors to the North.

If you find you are not able to enter Canada, you can still view Canada from International Falls. Plus, International Falls is the gateway community to Voyageurs National Park. There are plenty of reasons to stay and enjoy the activities on the U.S. side. 

If you have any questions, our team can help you prepare and plan for your Rainy Lake vacation. Give us a call at ​218 283 9400 or visit our office before you cross at 301 2nd Avenue
International Falls.