Who cannot travel to Canada?

Can a US citizen get into Canada with just a birth certificate?

Yes, U.S. citizens can often cross the Canadian border by land with a U.S. birth certificate and a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license), as these prove citizenship and identity for land/sea travel, though a passport is always fastest and preferred for any travel type. However, for air travel, a passport or passport card is required, and a border officer makes the final entry decision, so having extra documentation (like a NEXUS card or even an expired passport) can help avoid delays. 

Can I enter Canada from the USA without a passport?

American citizens

In most cases, you must travel with your valid US passport.

Can I go to Canada if I had a DUI 30 years ago?

Many people are shocked to learn that a DWI record from 30 years ago can be problematic at the Canadian border. Some are surprised border agents can even detect a driving history from that long ago, but there is technically no limit to how far back the border can see.

Does your criminal record show up when your passport is scanned?

No, scanning your passport doesn't instantly display your full criminal record, but it does allow border officials to access linked law enforcement databases (like the NCIC for the U.S.) where criminal history, warrants, and watchlists are stored; a flag or alert can trigger deeper checks, potentially revealing offenses like DUIs or security threats, leading to further questioning or denial of entry, especially for non-citizens. 

Why would someone be denied entry into Canada?

You can be denied entry to Canada for reasons like criminality (especially DUI/DWI), security threats, human rights violations, health issues (endangering public health/safety), financial instability, or misrepresentation/fraud in applications, along with not having proper documents or sufficient funds. Any crime, even a misdemeanor like a DUI in the US, can make you inadmissible unless you're approved for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) or Deemed Rehabilitation. 

What medical condition is not allowed in Canada?

Active syphilis. Untreated HIV/AIDS. Severe untreated mental health disorders (psychosis, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder, particularly if they cause violent or unpredictable behavior) Neurological conditions leading to sudden incapacity (uncontrolled epilepsy or severe forms of Alzheimer's disease)

Can a felon enter Canada?

#1: Canada

Under Canadian law, individuals with felony convictions are deemed "inadmissible" and will almost certainly be denied entry unless certain steps are taken beforehand. This includes convictions for serious crimes such as: Assault. Drug trafficking.

Can citizens be denied entry?

The American Civil Liberties Union says U.S. citizens have the right to enter the country, and lawful permanent residents “generally cannot be denied entry to the United States,” but they may be detained or subject to further inspection for refusing to answer border officers' questions.

How can I find out if I'm allowed to go to Canada?

Most travellers entering Canada will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visa. Answer a few questions to find out what you will need to visit Canada. It will take just a few minutes. If you need an eTA, you can access the online application form right after you finish the questionnaire.

Can I travel to Canada if I have a record?

It is possible for an American with a sealed record to obtain special permission to legally enter Canada by applying for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) or Criminal Rehabilitation. A TRP waiver is a quick fix, but is only available for a limited duration and requires an applicant to have a good reason for travel.

What felonies disqualify you from getting a passport?

Felonies that often disqualify you from getting a passport involve drug trafficking, terrorism, treason, kidnapping, human trafficking, child sexual abuse material, or certain federal crimes related to fraud or espionage, especially if you are a fugitive or on probation/parole with travel restrictions, but most other felonies don't automatically prevent issuance; other disqualifiers include major child support arrears ($2,500+) or outstanding federal warrants, notes the U.S. Department of State. 

Does Canada do a background check at the border?

The FBI shares their National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database with Canada's national police force. Consequently, the Canadian border can instantly detect any visitor with a criminal record from America as soon as the traveler hands over their ID.

What countries don't let you in if you have a criminal record?

Here is a list of countries that don't allow convicted felons to enter:

• China.
• Cuba.
• India.
• Iran.
• Israel.
• Japan.
• Kenya.
• Macau.

Does DUI show up on a passport scan?

No, a DUI doesn't appear on your physical passport when scanned at the border, as passports verify identity, not criminal history, but the scan links to law enforcement databases that can reveal DUI convictions, leading to potential entry denial in some countries, especially Canada or if you have multiple DUIs or other serious offenses. While a single DUI might not stop U.S. entry, other countries can and do restrict entry based on DUI records, so checking with the destination country's consulate is crucial. 

How will Canada know if I had a DUI?

If you are traveling to Canada with a DUI, you should assume that Canadian immigration officers are stationed at all entry points (airport, ships at a port, border crossing) Canadian government officers will be able review your driver license to see your criminal history on their computers and find out about any ...

What countries will deny entry for DUI?

Countries like Canada, Japan, China, Australia, New Zealand, and the UAE have strict entry rules for DUI convictions, often requiring waivers or denying entry based on offense severity or time since conviction, with some nations viewing DUIs as serious crimes or moral offenses, while others like Mexico may be more lenient but still require disclosure and potentially documentation. It's crucial to check the specific consulate rules, as lying about a DUI is often worse than the conviction itself. 

Can a US citizen be denied entry to Canada?

A Canadian immigration officer will decide if you can enter Canada when you apply for a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), or when you arrive at a port of entry. If you're found inadmissible, you'll be denied a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), refused entry to, or removed from Canada.

Can I go to Canada with just my driver's license?

No, you generally cannot drive into Canada with just a standard driver's license; you need proof of citizenship and identity, like a U.S. passport, passport card, or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) (from certain states), plus potentially a birth certificate and photo ID if not using a passport. While your regular license is valid for driving within Canada as a visitor, it's not enough for crossing the border; you must present acceptable documents proving you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to the Canadian border officer. 

Can a REAL ID be used instead of a passport?

No, a REAL ID does not replace a passport for international travel; a passport is always required for that, but a REAL ID (or a passport) serves as valid ID for domestic flights and accessing federal facilities starting May 7, 2025, though a passport works for both domestic and international travel, making it more versatile.