Topic:VITAL STATISTICS; INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS;
Location:INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS;
February 25, 1998 98-R-0213
FROM: Chelsea Turner, Legislative Fellow
RE: Entering Canada
You asked what is the source of the rule that a birth certificate is required to enter Canada and who could be approached to request a change to that policy.
SUMMARY
Canada requires proof of citizenship or resident status to enter the country under §§14(3) and 14(4) of the Passport and Travel Documents section of the Immigration Regulations of Canada (enclosed). A birth certificate is one form of proof. A request to change this policy should be directed to either the Prime Minister of Canada or the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration.
VISITOR REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONS FROM THE UNITED STATES
The requirements for entry into Canada are laid out in the Immigration Regulations of Canada's Immigration Act. §§ 14(3) and 14(4) of the Passport and Travel documents section address the entry requirements (enclosed). A complete version of these regulations may be accessed from the following website: http://canada.justice.gc.ca/cgi-bin/folioisa.dll/eregs.nfo/query%3Dentering+canada/doc/%7B113025%7D.
According to Sue Lopez of the Canadian Consulate, while the specific documents needed for entry into Canada are not clearly laid out in the Regulations, the documents required are implicit within the language. The U.S. Visitors Travel Information Guide prepared by the Canadian Tourism Commission states that United States citizens and permanent residents entering Canada must have proof of their citizenship or residence status. For U.S. citizens, a passport or visa is not required. Instead, a birth certificate and one photo identification card may be used; however, a photo identification card by itself is not enough. For permanent residents of the United States, “Green Cards” may be used in lieu of their passports.
CONTACTS TO CHANGE IMMIGRATION POLICY
A request to change the immigration policy should be directed to either the Prime Minister of Canada or the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration. Their contact information is as follows:
The Right Honourable Jean Chretien
Prime Minister of Canada
309 S Centre Block
House of Commons
111 Wellington Street
Ottowa, Ontario
Canada K1A0AZ
Phone: (613)992-4211
The Honourable Lucienne Robillard
Minister of Citizenship and Immigration
365 Laurier Avenue West
Jean Edmonds Towers
Ottowa, Ontario
Canada K1A1L1
Phone: (613)954-1064
Fax: (603)957-2688
Website: http://cicnet.ci.gc.ca
CT:pa
FAQs
The usual questions are how long you will be staying, where will you be staying, the purpose of your visit etc. Just answer questions truthfully and as briefly as possible. Going from Canada to the US by car, the first question is usually where are you headed to followed by how long.
How do I answer immigration questions at Canada airport? ›
Canada Immigration Questions at Airport for Visitors
Immigration officers typically inquire about the purpose and duration of your visit, accommodation arrangements, financial stability, return plans, and any restricted items in your possession. It's important to answer these questions honestly and confidently.
How to answer what is the purpose of your visit to Canada? ›
If you're visiting as a tourist, express your interest in exploring Canada's diverse cities, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. If you're attending a wedding or a similar family or friend-hosted function, highlight this reason. Explain how the event connects you to Canada and adds significance to your visit.
How to answer Canada visa questions? ›
Tips for a Successful Canada Visa Interview Questions
Brush up on basic information about Canada, its provinces, and territories. Be prepared to explain why you chose Canada for your visit or study. Be ready to provide details about your financial situation and how you plan to cover your expenses during your stay.
What questions do Canadian border agents ask? ›
Be prepared to answer these questions:
- What are you bringing with you to Canada?
- Do you have any live animals or plants with you?
- Do you have any firearms, ammunition or fireworks with you?
- Do you have any meat or dairy products with you?
- Do you have any fresh fruits or vegetables with you?
You have the right to remain silent or tell the agent that you'll only answer questions in the presence of an attorney, no matter your citizenship or immigration status. You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status. You may simply say that you do not wish to answer those questions.
What happens if you are denied entry to Canada at the airport? ›
If denied, you will not be allowed to enter Canada until you have received an approval from a Canadian consulate. If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country, you will need to apply for a temporary resident permit based on the guidelines set out by your specific country, as the application form may be different.
Do you have to answer Canada customs questions? ›
Canadian Customs Searches
Signs and notices are posted in these areas. Travellers and/or employees in or leaving these areas must identify themselves, answer questions and present their goods for examination if asked to do so by a CBSA officer. They may also be subject to physical searches.
Do you have to answer Border Patrol questions at airport? ›
U.S. citizens have the right to enter the United States, so if you are a U.S. citizen and the officers' questions become intrusive, you can decline to answer those questions, but you should be aware that doing so may result in delay and/or further inspection.
How do you answer the purpose of your visit? ›
Just answer in two-three sentences which clearly explain the reasons behind your purpose of travel, whatever it is as:
- “For business purposes – to negotiate a contract.”
- “To visit my mother, who lives in the US.”
- “For medical treatment.”
- I am going to visit my aunt, whom I haven't seen for a long time.
Purpose of Travel: Explain the reason for your visit, such as tourism, business, or studying abroad. Itinerary: Provide details of your trip, including the dates of travel, duration of stay, and the places you plan to visit.
How to answer what is the purpose of your visit sample? ›
Answer with your plans for the visit, whether it is to visit popular tourist destinations (if so, mention the spots you wish to visit), or whether to spend time with your family and friends, etc.
What questions do immigration officers ask at airports in Canada for visitors? ›
Some of the questions they may ask at a Canadian port of entry are:
- How was your trip?
- How long were you planning on staying?
- Do you have a return ticket home?
- What do you do for a living?
- Do you have employment in your home country?
- Where will you be staying?
- How much money do you have for your visit?
“Demonstrating ties to home country”
This also helps convince the visa officer that you have a reason to return home. People who have responsibilities in their home country must return home to care for these, and obviously can't stay forever in a new country.
How do I write my purpose for a Canadian visa? ›
Tip: Share a personal story or anecdote related to the purpose of your visit to make your introduction more memorable. Purpose of visit: Clearly state the purpose of your visit and explain why Canada is your preferred destination. Highlight specific attractions, events or experiences that match your interests.
How to answer border patrol questions? ›
You may be asked where you were born, how you entered the U.S. or how long you've been here. You don't ever have to answer those questions. Your responses may be used to detain and deport you. Do not sign anything without talking to a lawyer.
How do you answer a question at the US border? ›
Try to remain polite and calm and don't take it personally if the officer seems abrupt; CBP officers are trying to screen a lot of people as quickly as possible. Why are you visiting the United States? Your answer must match your visa (or the legal requirements for admitting you without a visa).
Do you have to answer CBSA questions? ›
Be polite and calm, but exercise your rights. Ask why you're being stopped. If their reason does not fall into one of the situations listed above, you have the right to leave. You do not have to answer questions asked by CBSA officers outside of an immigration examination or hearing.
