My Mom and Dad(US citizens) are cruising out of Canada. They are driving into Canada. What do they need at border crossing? They do not have birth certificates and are leaving this week. I know poor planning

Do they have passports?

Without proper ID, they will not be allowed to cross. Check here for details:

U.S. Department of State

Canada Entry Requirements

As they are leaving next week, they will have to expedite delivery of any documents they need. Good luck, and let us know how it turns out.

By chance, will they be cruising on Maasdam? We did so two years ago and enjoyed it greatly -- so I hope they are able to get everything they need so that they may enjoy it, too.

Hi, LisaP
Thank you for your info. It is a long story but can not get passport or birth certificate. My Mom and Dad whom are 80 years old believe that a voter registration card will be proof of citizenship. I told them I do not think this is correct. Am I correct? I am recommending that we expedite getting birth certificates by mail. Is this what you would recommend? Thank you so much

Yes, definitely expedite the birth certificates by mail. Even so, they are cutting it very close as it may very likely take more than a few days for the county to locate the birth certificate, process it, and mail it. See average processing times HERE.


Additionally, they will also need photo identification from a government agency -- driver license usually suffices. If they are not drivers, they may be able to get a non-driver photo ID from the motor vehicles department. Neighbors of mine just did that.

Also critical -- In addition to needing these documents at the border crossing, they will also need them to board the ship.