Quote:
Originally Posted by wright1d
The more I read about this stuff the more confused I get, seems like maybe doing the passport thing may be the way to go now?
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There are two components to crossing the border between the U.S. and Canada--three if your boat is over 30' in length.
The first component is proper identification. This consists, for U.S. residents, of a passport. For U.S./Michigan residents: Michigan's enhanced driver's license can be used in place of a passport.
The second component is a pre-approval or pre-clearance program that's a joint program between the U.S. and Canada. (Think of it as them asking you all the same questions they might when crossing the border, in advance, once
.) There are two: I-68 and NEXUS. I don't know much about I-68, except enrollment is annual, it's cheaper than NEXUS, and I
believe the enrollment process is the same as for NEXUS. Enrollment in NEXUS is for five years and costs $50. You have to fill out a somewhat extensive form, either on paper or on-line, and pay the non-refundable $50 application fee. They'll process the form, doing criminal background checks, etc., and, assuming you "pass," will notify you that you have to schedule an interview. (The Detroit office is closest to you, I imagine.)
Btw: I understand if you've ever been convicted of a DUI, Canada will not approve your participation in NEXUS, at least, and maybe I-68, as well.
You
need a passport or Michigan EDL. You don't
need to participate in the I-68 or NEXUS programs, but it'll make crossing faster and easier each way--especially on return to the U.S. Without membership in either program, you are required by law to report to a U.S. port of entry on return to the U.S. Being in either program allows you to call in to be cleared
if everybody on the boat is enrolled in either program. They will tell you at the time you call in if you are to be inspected. We were told by the head of U.S. DHS CBP in Port Huron that the agents will come to you, where you dock. But they
may require to to report to a port of entry. Either way: If they want to inspect you, nobody is allowed to leave the boat until the inspection is conducted.
Whether you're enrolled in I-68 or NEXUS, or not, when you land in Canada you're required to report to Canadian CBSA by phone. They will tell you at the time whether they wish to inspect you. Either way: They'll give you an identification number. Record this. You'll be required to give it to U.S. DHS CBP upon return to the U.S.
According to the U.S. DHS CBP and Canadian CBSA personnel present at our interview: A NEXUS card now serves as proper identification for U.S./Canada border crossings, but I'd verify that personally, rather than taking my word on it.
The last component, for boats over 30' LOA, is a boat registration program. I know nothing about it, being as our boat is 30' LOA, so we didn't have to bother with it.
I'll be happy to answer an further quesions you have, but I don't know if I can make it any simpler.
Jim
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