Is a U.S. birth abroad certificate enough to enter the United States?

A Canadian citizen has a U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad certificate and will be entering the United States as more than just a visitor — for school or work. She doesn’t have time to apply for a U.S. passport. Is the birth abroad certificate enough to cross without problems?

Short answer, yes. She should have a valid Canadian passport to show to U.S. Customs & Border Protection, but also show the birth abroad certificate as proof of U.S. citizenship.

At her earliest convenience, she should apply for a U.S. passport.

For information on applying for a U.S. passport, visit our blog entry.

Click here for the application to file a U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad.

Click here to replace or amend a  U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad.