Canadian Entry Permit
The Canadian Entry Permit is a document required of hikers (including Canadian citizens) who wish to cross into Canada from the USA at the Pacific Crest Trail's Northern Terminus. It is issued by the Canadian Border Services Agency.
Because the Pacific Crest Trail at Manning Park is not an official border crossing, the Canadian Entry Permit acts as a record of when and where the hiker entered Canada.
Currently, it is only legal to enter Canada from the USA via the PCT if you have an approved Canadian Entry Permit. It is not legal in any circumstances to enter the USA from Canada via the PCT.
Applying for the permit
You should apply for this permit approximately 8-10 weeks before starting your thru-hike.
You must complete the permit application form (PDF, 200kB) and provide color scans of:
- your passport (or birth certificate and photo ID)
- your driver's license
- a Canadian Permanent Resident card or US Resident Alien card (if applicable)
- your visa/ESTA if you are a visitor to the USA
You must submit your completed form to the email address provided on the form. Your application will be reviewed and you will be informed of the outcome within 8 weeks.
If your application is approved, you must print and carry your permit with you whilst in Canada. If your application is rejected, you will not be able to enter Canada via the PCT.
The Pacific Crest Trail Association provides more information on applying for this permit.
