Driving to Canada for World Cup 2026: Your border document checklist
The excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is building. For many fans in the United States, driving across the Canada-US border will be a convenient way to reach Canadian host cities like Toronto and Vancouver. While the road trip itself promises adventure, getting your travel documents in order is essential for a smooth entry into Canada. This guide covers the paperwork and important points for those arriving by land.
Your passport: The primary document
Every traveler entering Canada, regardless of their nationality, needs a valid passport. This document identifies you and proves your citizenship. Make sure your passport remains valid for your entire planned stay in Canada. Border Services Officers will check it to confirm your identity and nationality.
Many people traveling to Canada, especially from the United States, get confused about the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). It's important to remember that an eTA is only required for visa-exempt foreign nationals entering Canada by air – meaning on a flight. If you're driving across the land border from the US, an eTA doesn't apply. This is a common misunderstanding. Road-trippers should focus on having a valid passport and, if necessary, a visitor visa. For more details on this, see our guide on [Do you need an eTA to drive into Canada for World Cup 2026?](/news/do-you-need-an-eta-to-drive-into-Canada-for-World-Cup-