Everything You Need To Know About The Us Border in Bellingham, WA

Crossing the US/Canadian Border can be a very smooth process, but expect it to take 10-30 minutes, and longer during high traffic volume periods. An occasional full-vehicle search may occur. Don't forget to bring proper identification for everyone traveling in your group.

Keep reading to help prepare for your voyage and check out our Travel Advisory page for other information about visiting Bellingham and Whatcom County!

For more information on traveling into the United States, click here.

Air Travel into the U.S.

Passports are REQUIRED

Land and Sea Travel into the U.S.

U.S. ADULT CITIZENS (16 and older) ARE EXPECTED TO HAVE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:

Passport
U.S. Passport Card
Enhanced Driver’s License (only available in certain states)
Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST) Card
Specific military documents
Form I-872 American Indian Card, or (when available) Enhanced Tribal Card

CHILDREN* (15 and younger) ARE EXPECTED TO HAVE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:

Proof of citizenship (such as original or copy of Birth Certificate or Naturalization Certificate)
Enhanced Government-issued photo I.D. (issued in some states)
Passport
U.S. Passport Card

*If children are not traveling with both parents, a written statement is required from the parent/guardian stating travel is authorized.

Dogs and Cats must have certificates issued by a licensed veterinarian identifying each animal and certifying that each has been vaccinated against rabies during the preceding 36 month period. Puppies under 3 months cannot cross the border. They must be 4 months old and have had their rabies shots at least 30 days prior to crossing. Pet food restrictions vary depending on current restrictions. Recommend only bringing small amounts in original package.
The number for the CDC (Center for Disease control): 800-232-4636
Starting August 1, 2024, dogs entering or returning to the United States must meet NEW requirements. Find a travel checklist and more details from the CDC here.

Visiting Canada

Non-Americans going to Canada are required to have a passport and/or visa.
Legal Permanent US Residents must carry a Green Card.
Alaska-Bound Travelers must show proof of sufficient funds for travel in Canada. Call ahead if transporting household effects or tools of the trade.
For more information on traveling into Canada, visit this website.

Canadian shoppers looking for cross-border savings can bring goods back from America, tax free.

Come stay in Whatcom County for a few days and take advantage of the duty-free allowances. Conveniently located across the border, Whatcom County has a wide variety in shopping, dining, and lodging that is sure to please all bargain savvy Canadians.

Check here for all the details on duty-free shopping in the US.

We acknowledge that Whatcom County is located on the unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples. They cared for the lands that included what we’d call the Puget Sound region, Vancouver Island and British Columbia since time immemorial. This gives us the great obligation and opportunity to learn how to care for our surrounding areas and all the natural and human resources we require to live. We express our deepest respect and gratitude for our indigenous neighbors, the Lummi Nation and Nooksack Tribe, for their enduring care and protection of our shared lands and waterways.

US/Canada Border

Blaine/Douglas: Peace Arch Crossing

Pacific Highway: Additional Blaine Crossing

Lynden/Aldergrove: Lynden Crossing

Point Roberts/Boundary Bay Crossing

Personal Identification Requirements

For more information on traveling into the United States, click here.

Air Travel into the U.S.

Land and Sea Travel into the U.S.

Enjoy Your Visit in Washington

Duty Free Information for Canadian Shoppers