Starting Thursday, Jan.31, everyone entering the United States, must show official citizenship documents. Border officials in Canada and the U.S. are encouraging all travellers to get passports.
In the past, some people entering the U.S. from Canada simply had to declare their citizenship. After Jan.31, all adults entering the U.S. will need to prove their nationality by producing government issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, as well as proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or citizenship card.
The new rule also applies to Americans returning from Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean nations. An American customs official says there will be a short grace period for travellers without the extra identification.
