Sault Ste. Marie Border Crossing
The Sault Ste. Marie border crossing at the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge connects Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan and Sault Ste. Marie. It is one of the main border crossings between the United States and Northern Ontario.
This page covers border crossing requirements, documents, wait times, and key information to help you plan your trip
Quick Border Crossing Info
- Crossing: Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge
- Location: I-75, Michigan ↔ Ontario, Canada
- Open: 24 hours
- Annual traffic: 500,000+ vehicles
Check here live bridge updates, tolls, and traffic cameras.
Sault Ste. Marie Border Wait Times
Border wait times at the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge can vary depending on traffic, time of day, and season.
For real-time updates:
Travel tip: Wait times are typically higher during weekends, holidays, and summer travel periods.
Documents you will need
Quick Checklist Before You Cross
Before arriving at the border, make sure you have:
- A valid passport or approved travel document
- All goods ready to declare (food, purchases, etc.)
- Proper documentation for children (if applicable)
- No admissibility concerns (e.g., criminal record)
| Traveller Type | Accepted Documents | Notes |
| U.S. Citizens (16+) | Passport, Passport Card, Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL), NEXUS/FAST | Passport is strongly recommended to avoid delays |
| Children (15 and under) | Birth Certificate (land/sea), Passport (air) | May require a consent letter if not travelling with both parents |
| Trusted Travellers | NEXUS, FAST | Access to faster processing lanes |
Learn More about Visa Requirements here.
Travelling with Children
Children must have proper identification, and additional documentation may be required depending on who they are travelling with.
Read more about Traveling with Minors in the IRCC official site.
Faster Border Crossing Options
Frequent travellers can speed up the process with trusted traveller programs like NEXUS.
Apply or learn more about Traveler Program Cards on their official site.
Passport & Travel Information
For full requirements and official guidance
More Information on the Canada Border Services Agency Page.
Currency & Exchange When Crossing into Canada
Most businesses in Sault Ste. Marie accept U.S. currency and major credit cards. Paying in Canadian dollars usually gives better value.
If you are carrying $10,000 CAD or more (or equivalent), you must declare it when entering Canada.
Currency exchange options:
- Before crossing:
Duty Free America - After crossing into Canada:
Gateway Casino
Check what you can bring across the border on the official Canadian Inspection Site.
Can You Cross the Border with a Criminal Record?
Entry into Canada may be restricted if you have a prior criminal conviction, including DUI offences.
Admissibility depends on:
- Type of offence
- Number of offences
- Time since the offence
Contact Canadian immigration authorities before your trip to confirm eligibility.
You can also contact the Sault Ste. Marie Port of Entry:
1-800-461-9999
1-204-983-3500 (outside Canada)
Final decisions are made by border officers at the time of crossing.
Frequently asked questions
The border crossing is located at the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge connecting Michigan, USA and Ontario, Canada. Located at the Canada Border Services Agency, 125 Huron St, Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 1R3
Yes, the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge operates 24 hours a day.
You can check real-time wait times on the official bridge website.
- Border wait times: United States to Canada site.
- Border wait times: Canada to United States site.
A valid passport or approved travel document such as an Enhanced Driver’s Licence is required.
More Information on the Canada Border Services Agency Page.
Planning your stay in Sault Ste. Marie
Every great trip starts with a great plan, let us help. Whether you are looking for an outdoor adventure experience, a ride on a scenic train tour, or just a long weekend getaway, here are the tools to help you make that plan.
