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Niagara Falls overlooks the Canadian province of Ontario and the American state of New York. The city acts as the international border separating the two countries. Horseshoe Falls, which is often termed the “Canadian Falls,” is situated in Canada, while “American Falls” and “Bridal Veil Falls” are on the US side.
If you are planning a fun trip with family or just a weekend getaway, stay connected with us as we provide a few details that will make your visit to Niagara Falls hassle-free.
1. Travel Essentials: Passport Requirements and Alternatives
You can reach Niagara Falls from the New York City and Toronto airports. Unless you want to watch Niagara Falls from another country’s shores, you don’t need a passport. The Rainbow Bridge, Whirlpool Bridge, and the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge serve as border crossings between the American and Canadian sides.
The Rainbow Bridge, nearly 500 yards from the “American Falls,” is the most used crossing to enter Niagara Falls. The Whirlpool bridge is 2.9km from the north of the Falls and allows crossing only for NEXUS cardholders. Lewiston-Queentson Bridge is 9km from the falls and is open to all.
1.1. Visitors from Canada
The Horseshoe Falls is the largest waterfall on the Canadian side. If you are a Canadian resident and want to visit Niagara Falls, Canada, you do not need a passport.
However, if you are a US citizen or an international tourist, then you need a passport with a valid visa in some cases. Further, you would be denied entry at the Canadian border without appropriate identification documents.
1.2. Visitors from the United States
If you are a US citizen visiting the Canadian side to experience Niagara Falls, Canada, up close, you must carry a US passport. A VISA is not necessary.
Also, bring an original or verified copy of your current government-issued identity. These include a driver’s license or a permanent resident card. This will also help in crossing the Canadian border back to the United States easier.
2. Essential Documents for a Visit to the American Side
If you are a permanent resident of the US, then you would not need a passport for your visit to Niagara Falls. A government-issued card, such as a driver’s license, state identity card, or passport card, will be needed for land and sea travel between the US and Canada. You can also bring your birth certificate as additional proof of citizenship. A passport is not needed for a permanent resident of the US.
2.1. Enhanced Driver’s License and NEXUS Card
If you are from America, apart from passports, travel papers that can be useful while visiting the Canadian Falls is an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL). It also can be used as a driver’s license. It is also an approved form of identification for entry into Canada via land. Citizens of New York, Michigan, Minnesota, Vermont, and Washington are the only states where EDLs are now accessible.
Another option while visiting Niagara Falls, Canada, is a NEXUS card, especially if you are a frequent traveller between America and Canada.
3. Tourists Visiting the Iconic Natural Wonder
If you are a tourist from a country other than the US, you must have a valid passport to enter the falls from either side. It should have at least six months of validity remaining to have a smooth entry and exit.
3.1. Tourists from Other Countries
Tourists from any country in the European Union require a passport but do not require any VISA to cross the border. If you are a foreign tourist, you need a tourist VISA. Before planning your visit, you can get the same from the Canadian Consulate in your home country.
3.3. Passport Requirements for Kids
You must carry an original or copy of the certified birth certificate when travelling with minor children. It can be used as documentation proof of citizenship for a child under 16 at the border patrol instead of a passport. You can have a notarised hand note that mentions the period of their visit. It should also contain the contact details of both parents in case the child is not yours
You can visit the official Canada Inspection page for further details if you wish to bring your pet to Canada. Similarly, for America, you can find rules from the United States Department of Agriculture,
4. Passport-Free Fun
If you are travelling to Niagara Falls without a passport, you won’t be able to see the other side of the Falls up close. But don’t worry! There are plenty of major attractions on either side of the Falls to keep you engaged. Some of these are even available for free!
4.1. On the American Side
You can get mesmerizing views of Niagara Falls from the Niagara Falls State Park or the Niagara Falls observation towers. You can also take an elevator down to the base of the “Bridal Veil Falls” and explore the Cave of the Winds or witness downstream whirlpools formed by Niagara Falls at the Whirlpool State Park.
4.2. On the Canadian Side
You can see Niagara Gorge for free from Queen Victoria Park. For a close and exciting experience of the falls, you can sign up for the Maid of the Mist boat tour. Finish your trip by dining in restaurants and shopping near Niagara Falls.
Takeaway
Travellers visiting Niagara Falls must make sure to have their passport cards. Whether you visit Niagara Falls, Canada, or Niagara Falls, USA, it is advisable to carry your passport for an eye-catching view of the main waterfalls.
There are other attractions as well, such as historical monuments and indoor water parks, in the city’s proximity. Lastly, do not forget to get yourself something to remember from souvenir stores alongside the Niagara River.
Last Updated on by Sathi Chakraborty
