Tips for Northern Border Crossers and Other Travelers

The summer is a busy travel time especially on the Northern border between the U.S. and Canada.  Travelers are reminded that U.S. citizens and Canadian citizens are now required to present proof of citizenship and identity to enter the U.S, such as a passport, trusted traveler program card, or birth certification with a driver's license. (Those 18 and under may present only a birth certificate.)  For lawful permanent residents of the U.S., an I-551 or green card remains acceptable for land and sea travel. (Passports are, however, now required for all travelers entering and departing the U.S. by air.)

As many travelers know, CBP officers have the authority to conduct enforcement examinations, including a personal search. Travelers should be prepared for the inspections process, declare all items acquired abroad, and remember not to bring in fruits, meats, poultry, dairy, or firewood without first determining if these items are permissible.  In addition, the CBP web site monitors border crossing wait times hourly, and should be consulted by cross border travelers to avoid long waits.

Additionally, the summer months generally mean delays in obtaining visa interviews at U.S. consulates around the world.  First, the volume of visa applications from tourists increases significantly at posts, and consular officers, like the rest of us, take time off during the summer.  Moreover, the summer is a time of transition at many consular posts as the Department of State rotates its foreign service corps and consular personnel in July and August.  Where feasible, foreign nationals should consider postponing their travel until the fall.  If travel is necessary, foreign nationals - and their families and employers - are well advised to have realistic expectations about visa processing times.  Moreover, those who must obtain visa extensions or changes, and those from certain countries where name checks and related security delays could further delay visa issuance should think twice about traveling during the busiest time of the year.