"Why do we have to carry passports now to go into Mex and Can? and by we, I mean LEGAL citizens . . ."
Umm, maybe because by "we", you were referring to people who aren't citizens or legal residents of "Mex and Can"? Do you think US citizenship entitles you to enter other countries without a passport?
Actually, though, prior to 9/11 "we" COULD enter both those countries without a passport. A driver's license and straight answers when the Mexican or Canadian border guards asked you the purpose of your visit and how long you would be there, and they waived you right through. We weren't that nice to Mexicans, of course, but they didn't seem to mind. We treated Canadians pretty much as they treated us.
But that all changed after 9/11. We tightened requirements on them, so they did the same to us. Still, though, Americans can visit Canada with only a passport - no visa needed. Same for Canadians coming here. Not Mexicans, though.
Oh, wait - seems you're wrong about Mexico.
mexico.usembassy.gov
They STILL don't require a passport for American citizens to enter. A certified copy of your birth certificate along with a photo ID will do the trick, as will certain other docs. But not a driver's license any more. Sorry. |
