In the past, U.S. citizens were permitted to travel to Canada without presenting a passport. However, under the newly enacted Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, all persons travelling outside the United States are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to reenter the United States. It is important to apply for a U.S. passport in advance of anticipated travel, since the application process may take weeks to complete, and unforeseen delays will play havoc with travel plans. For further information about obtaining a passport or other valid travel document by a US citizen, please visit: www.immigrationdirect.com/passport/How-to-get-a-US-Passport.jsp