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Airport security
Passport or not
Where can I go without a passport?
Last Updated Jan. 24, 2008
CBC News
If you're planning to travel abroad, chances are you're going to have to show a valid passport. But sometimes you won't.
The Department of Foreign Affairs recommends that Canadians always carry passports for international travel — preferably a passport that won't expire until six months after you complete your trip.
However, there are a handful of countries that don't require that you carry a passport. Government-issued photo ID (such as a valid driver's licence) and proof of citizenship (a birth certificate) are often enough.
These countries include:
Antigua and Barbuda
All travellers to Antigua must be in possession of an onward or return ticket.
Bahamas
For trips of under 21 days, you don't need a passport. But if you're staying longer than 21 days you will need a valid passport and a visa. All travellers need an onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds.
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Besides valid photo ID and proof of citizenship, travellers to Saint Kitts and Nevis require an onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds.
Saint Lucia
Although Canadians only require valid official photo identification and proof of citizenship for travel to Saint Lucia, some people have experienced difficulties when attempting to enter Saint Lucia using a passport that was due to expire in less than six months. An onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds is also required.Grenada
Some people have reported difficulties trying to enter or leave the country without a valid passport. All travellers to Grenada must hold an onward or return ticket.
Dominica
Some people have reported difficulties trying to enter or leave the country without a valid passport. All travellers to Dominica must hold an onward or return ticket.
Dominican Republic
People travelling to the Dominican Republic must hold a return airline ticket.
Jamaica
People travelling to Jamaica require an onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds.
The United States
You need a passport if you're flying into the U.S., as of January 23, 2007. If you're crossing by land or water, you will need to show valid identification, such as a government-issued ID plus a birth certificate or citizenship card. And sometime after June 2009, you'll need a valid passport, no matter how you enter the U.S.
In some countries, take extra precautions
Cape Verde
Sometimes a passport is not enough. For instance, if you plan on visiting Cape Verde, you will also need either a tourist, business or student visa. And if you're on medication, make sure your pill bottles are clearly labelled. Foreigners have been arrested for carrying unlabelled pills. As well, homosexual activity is illegal. If you try to enter the country as a same-sex married couple, you may be refused entry. And if you've visited a country where yellow fever exists, you will be required to show proof of vaccination.Bhutan
If you're headed to Bhutan, you'll have to deal with even more stringent regulations. You will need a visa to board Druk Air flights to the country, the only way Canadians can get in. The visa and your travel plans can only be arranged through an authorized travel agent and confirmed before you leave Canada.
You will be required to spend a minimum of $200 US a day for accommodation, meals, transportation and guides, which must be paid in advance. Once you arrive, you'll have to pay another visa fee of $20 US and provide two passport-sized photos. Oh, and don't smoke in public while you're there. It's illegal. So is selling cigarettes or other tobacco products.
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- Passenger Protect
- Consular Affairs: Country travel reports
- Expiry date of Canadian citizenship
- Government of Canada Transportation and Travel Safety
- Travel Warnings
- Consular Affairs Bureau, Who We Are & What We Do
- Canadian Passport Office
- Transport Canada Planning to Travel
- CANPASS information page
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security US-VISIT
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection Visiting the U.S.
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