Greyhound Travel Between the U.S. and Canada by Bus

When traveling between the United States and Canada by bus, you need to ensure you have the correct documents and follow all border regulations.

Traveling into Canada

Required Documents

Canadian Citizens:
  • A valid passport.
Non-Canadian Citizens:
  • A valid passport OR Enhanced Driver’s License OR Certificate of Indian Status.
    (For more information on acceptable forms of identification, visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website).
  • Proof of departure from Canada, such as a ticket for your return trip or another destination outside of Canada.
  • The address of where you will be staying in Canada.

Important: If you do not have the correct travel documents, you will be denied boarding, as entry into Canada will be refused. If this happens, you will need to purchase a separate ticket back to your original location.

Additional Entry Requirements

In addition to standard documentation, the Canadian Government has extra requirements for entry into Canada, which may include:

  • Pre-arrival testing
  • Proof of vaccination
  • Using the ArriveCAN app to submit travel details.

For complete and updated details, visit the official Canadian Government site: https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid

When using the ArriveCAN app, you will need to know your Port of Entry. You can find this in your ticket confirmation itinerary, under the location beginning with “XB”:

  • Montreal Border Crossing: Lacolle Route 15, QC
  • Toronto Border Crossing: Peace Bridge, ON
  • Vancouver Border Crossing: Pacific Highway, BC

IMPORTANT:Bus companies assume no responsibility for ensuring you meet entry requirements. If you are denied entry at the border, you will be transported back to the last Greyhound terminal at your own expense.

Border Crossing Process

  1. All passengers must leave the bus at the border.
  2. Take all belongings, including checked baggage.
  3. Customs officials may ask about your travel purpose and inspect your luggage.
  4. Once cleared, you can reboard the bus and continue your journey.

Children Traveling to Canada

  • Proof of citizenship (passport or birth certificate) is required.
  • Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • If a child is traveling with only one parent, they must have a signed letter of consent from the other parent. The letter should include the other parent’s name, contact details, and signature.

Bringing Food into Canada

You must declare all plant, animal, and food products. Some food items are restricted based on pest or disease risks.

For the latest guidelines, check the Canadian Food Inspection Agency:
https://inspection.canada.ca/eng/1297964599443/1297965645317

Traveling with Cannabis/Marijuana into Canada

It is ILLEGAL to bring cannabis or cannabis products across the border, even if it is for medical use.
This rule applies regardless of:

  • The legality of cannabis in your departure state (e.g., Washington, Vermont, or Maine).
  • Whether you’re entering Canada or the U.S.

Under no circumstances should you attempt to cross the border with cannabis.

Traveling into the U.S.

Required Documents

To enter the United States, you will need:

  • A passport or proof of citizenship.
  • Non-U.S. citizens may require a visa. It is your responsibility to confirm entry requirements before travel.

Important: If you do not have the correct documents, you will be denied boarding and entry at the border.

Border Crossing Process

  1. All passengers must leave the bus at the border.
  2. Take all belongings, including checked baggage.
  3. You and your baggage will go through security screening (similar to airport procedures).
  4. Once cleared, you can reboard the bus and continue your journey.

All unclaimed baggage at the border will be removed by U.S. officials.

Children Traveling to the U.S.

  • Proof of citizenship (birth certificate or passport) is required.
  • Children under 16 are not allowed to travel alone into the U.S. They must be accompanied by an adult.

Bringing Food into the U.S.

Certain agricultural products are restricted due to pest and disease risks.

Check the U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidelines here:
http://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/agricultural-items

All agricultural products must be declared at the border.

Traveling with Cannabis/Marijuana into the U.S.

It is ILLEGAL to bring cannabis or cannabis products into the U.S.
This rule applies regardless of:

  • Whether it is for medical use.
  • Whether the U.S. state you are entering has legalized cannabis (e.g., Washington, Vermont, or Maine).

Under no circumstances should you attempt to cross the border with cannabis.

Important Notes

  • Bus companies are not responsible for ensuring you meet travel requirements.
  • If you are denied entry, return travel will be at your own expense.
  • It is your responsibility to stay informed about border entry rules and requirements.

For the most up-to-date information, visit the official websites of U.S. and Canadian border agencies:

Busbuster Travel Tips

1. Check Canada’s Entry Requirements in Advance

  • Canada updates its travel regulations frequently, including rules on vaccination, visas, and testing requirements.
  • Visit https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid for the most up-to-date information.

2. Have All Your Documents Ready Before Reaching the Border

  • Keep your passport, return ticket, and accommodation details easily accessible.
  • If you need a visa, apply well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

3. Use the ArriveCAN App Before Traveling

  • Canada requires travelers to submit their travel and contact details using ArriveCAN before arriving.
  • Make sure your Port of Entry (border crossing) matches the one on your ticket.
  • Double-check that all your information is correct and complete to prevent delays.

4. Be Honest with Border Officers

  • Border officers will ask why you're visiting Canada. A simple, direct answer like "I’m visiting for tourism" is best.
  • Never joke about illegal activities—officials take their job seriously.

5. Avoid Bringing Restricted or Banned Items

  • Canada has strict regulations on fresh food, plants, and animal products.
  • Cannabis is legal in Canada but CANNOT be brought across the border.
  • Check the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s guidelines: https://inspection.canada.ca

6. Be Prepared for a Luggage Inspection

  • Even if you think your bag won’t be searched, it might be randomly selected.
  • Pack neatly to make the process faster.

7. Keep Some Cash in Canadian Dollars

  • While most places in Canada accept credit cards, it’s helpful to have small amounts of Canadian cash for bus stations or local transit.

8. Know Your Return Policy

  • If your travel plans change, check if your bus ticket allows changes or refunds.
  • Make sure your return ticket matches your visa conditions if applicable.

General Tips for Border Crossing

  • Know Emergency Contacts: Have the bus company’s customer service number and your country’s embassy contact information in case of issues.
  • Avoid Last-Minute Ticket Purchases: Prices can be higher, and some trips may require early booking due to high demand.
  • Check Weather Conditions: Delays may occur due to storms, heavy snowfall (Canada), or extreme heat (Mexico-USA).
  • Use Official Bus Stations: When possible, use bus company terminals instead of informal pick-up locations to avoid scams.
  • Charge Your Devices: Some buses have charging ports, but bring a power bank in case yours doesn’t.

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