On April 5, 2005 the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced the proposed Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. This proposed security initiative will affect Canadians travelling to the U.S., and will be phased-in over a three-year period.

The proposed timeline is as follows:

Phase 1 – As of December 31, 2005, a passport will be required for everyone travelling to the U.S. by air or sea from the Caribbean, Bermuda and Central and South America.

Phase 2 – As of December 31, 2006, a passport will be required for everyone travelling to the U.S. by air or sea from Canada and Mexico.

*Phase 2 will affect snowbird travellers who, while driving to their seasonal destinations, may return to Canada by air for appointments or to visit with friends and family.

Phase 3 – As of December 31, 2007, a passport will be required for everyone travelling to the U.S. by land border crossings, air or sea.

*Phase 3 will not only affect snowbird travellers but also casual travellers, who take day-trips to the U.S., for shopping, entertainment, or tourism.

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative applies not only to Canadians but to Americans. U.S. citizens will require a passport to return to the U.S. after visiting Canada or other countries. It is anticipated that a low-risk frequent travel program, such as NEXUS and FAST, will be part of the Travel Initiative.

Please note that passports will be required for infants and children as well as adults (age 16 years and older). The Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) recommends members obtain a passport at their earliest convenience.