Traveling to Canada as a U.S. Green Card holder requires careful planning and understanding of the necessary documentation. Many permanent residents wonder, “Can I Travel To Canada With My Green Card Only?” This article provides a detailed explanation of the requirements and acceptable documents for lawful permanent residents traveling to Canada.
As of April 26, 2022, U.S. lawful permanent residents are required to present specific documents when entering Canada, regardless of the mode of transportation. This ensures that border officials can verify your status and allow you entry into the country. It’s crucial to have the correct paperwork to avoid any delays or complications at the border.
Essential Documents for Traveling to Canada
To enter Canada as a U.S. lawful permanent resident, you must possess both of the following documents:
- A valid passport from your country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document).
- A valid Green Card (Permanent Resident Card, Form I-551), or equivalent valid proof of status in the United States.
This requirement underscores the importance of having a valid passport alongside your Green Card. The passport serves as proof of your citizenship, while the Green Card verifies your permanent resident status in the U.S.
Acceptable Proof of Status Documents
Beyond the standard Green Card, there are other forms of official documentation that can serve as proof of your lawful permanent resident status. These include:
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Valid Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551): This is the standard Green Card, and must be valid.
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Foreign passport with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp): This stamp, also known as an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication stamp, can be found in your passport.
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Foreign passport with a temporary I-551 printed notation: This notation includes the text “Upon endorsement serves as temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year” on a machine-readable immigrant visa, endorsed with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection admission stamp.
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Expired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-751: This applies if you have filed a Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence.
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Expired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-829: This is relevant for those who have filed a Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status.
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Expired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-90: This is for individuals who have applied to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
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Valid re-entry permit (Form I-327): This permit is used for re-entering the U.S. after extended travel abroad.
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Form I-94 with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp) and a passport-style photo: This form, along with the stamp and photo, serves as temporary proof of permanent resident status.
Presenting Your Documents at the Border
When traveling to Canada, you will need to present your proof of status documents to:
- Airline staff when checking in for a flight to Canada.
- A border services officer upon arrival in Canada.
Ensuring that you have all the necessary documentation readily available will streamline the entry process and help you avoid any potential issues.
Key Takeaways
Traveling to Canada with just your Green Card is not sufficient. You must also carry a valid passport from your country of nationality. Having both documents, or any of the acceptable alternatives listed above, will ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Canada. Always verify the latest requirements with the Canadian government before your trip to account for any potential changes in policy.
