Border Crossing is OPEN

Please note: The International border is OPEN.  Refer back to this page often and refer to links below for border crossings updates.

New Requirements will be in effect August 1, 2024 for anyone traveling with dogs. Please see the list of requirements that will be needed by US border agents.

ENTERING CANADA

Individuals entering Canada: American citizens need an ID that proves two things: Citizenship and identity by way of a photo. Passports will be required as of June 1, 2009, to reenter the US. The following pieces of identification will serve as satisfactory proof of American citizenship to enter Canada: US Passport, or Birth Certificate (photocopies must be notarized), or certificate of naturalization or citizenship, AND photo ID such as a driver’s license. There are alcohol and firearms restrictions. Click here for more Canada Customs Info

Food Restrictions: Fruit – Apples, Pears, Peaches, Plums, Apricots, Nectarines. Vegetables – Corn on the Cob, potatoes (acceptable only in sealed US inspected bag). Meat: No restrictions.

Returning to Canada w/Purchases/Goods/Gifts: Individuals returning to Canada after 24-hours can claim up to $200 CDN worth of goods without duty; $800 after 48 hrs. After a 7-day absence, you are allowed to include goods that will follow you by mail or other delivery method.

ENTERING THE UNITED STATES

Individuals entering US: As of June 1, 2009 only Passports or WHTI-compliant documents will be acceptable for entering the United States. WHTI-compliant documents are: US Passport Card, Enhanced Drivers License, NEXUS Card, or FAST Card. Prior to June 1, 2009 a photo ID plus Birth Certificate are accepted.Rykerts border crossing between Canada and Idaho, showing Canadian Customs facility with signage and flags.

US Customs Info: www.cbp.gov or www.passportinfo.com Returning to US with w/Purchases/Goods/Gifts: Individuals returning to the US in 30 days may bring $800/person of approved items and 1-litre (33.8 fl. oz) alcohol per person without paying duty. Locally grown fruit from Creston, BC allowed. To learn what items are restricted, go to www.cbp.gov. Minors traveling with people who are not their parents: (applies for Canada & US entries): Must have written authorization from parents along with phone numbers and ID, such as a notarized copy of birth certificate. As of June 1, 2009, US & Canadian citizens under the age of 16 need only present a birth certificate, Canadian Citizenship Card, or a naturalization certificate. Birth certificates can be an original, photocopy, or certified copy.

Traveling with pets: Dog & Cat owners may generally travel with healthy pets with current rabies vaccination certificate within the past 36 months. There are new requirements for dogs effective 8/1/2024.

For the final word, check out the official Canada Border Services Agency and US Border & Customs Protection websites.

If you have specific concerns, please call one of the border station numbers listed below:

Border Crossing Stations on the Loop

State / Province Crossing Route Telephone# Opens Closes To
Washington Crossings Frontier Hwy 25 N (509) 732-6215 Open 24 hours Paterson
Metaline Hwy 31 (509) 446-4421 8:00 am 4:00 pm Nelway
Idaho Crossings Eastport Hwy 95 N (208) 267-3966 Open 24 hours Kingsgate
Porthill Hwy 1 N (208) 267-5309 7:00 am 7:00 pm Rykerts
British Columbia Crossings Kingsgate Hwy 95 (250) 424-5391 Open 24 hours Eastport
Nelway Hwy 6 (250) 357-9940 8:00 am 8:00 pm Metaline
Paterson Hwy 22 (250) 362-7341 Open 24 hours Frontier
Rykerts Hwy 21 (250) 428-2575 7:00 am 11:00 pm Porthill