Can I use birth certificate instead of passport to go to Canada?

Can I Use a Birth Certificate Instead of a Passport to Visit Canada?

As a United States citizen, you must present proof of citizenship when entering Canada. According to the Government of Canada, acceptable forms of proof of citizenship include:

• Passport
• Birth certificate
• Certificate of citizenship
• Certificate of naturalization

Therefore, yes, you can use a birth certificate as a substitute for a passport to enter Canada.

Additional Information:

• If traveling by air, you will also need to present a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license.
• If you are under 18 years old, you must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian when entering Canada.
• While a birth certificate is an acceptable form of proof of citizenship for entry into Canada, it is not a substitute for a passport when traveling to other countries.

Recommended Course of Action:

For maximum convenience and flexibility, it is highly recommended to obtain a passport for international travel. Passports are universally recognized and accepted as proof of identity and citizenship. If you do not have a passport, you should apply for one well in advance of your planned travel to Canada.