As an expert in immigration and travel regulations, I can provide you with a comprehensive answer to your question regarding the feasibility of traveling to Canada with a green card and an expired passport. It is crucial to understand the nuances of international travel documentation, especially when it involves crossing borders with neighboring countries.

**Step 1: Understanding the Green Card and Passport Functions**

The Green Card, officially known as the I-551 Permanent Resident Card, serves as proof of an individual's status as a lawful permanent resident in the United States. It is a critical document that allows the cardholder to live and work in the U.S. on a permanent basis. For U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs), the Green Card is often used as a travel document for re-entry into the United States after international travel.

On the other hand, a passport is an internationally recognized travel document that verifies the identity and nationality of its holder. It is essential for international travel as it grants the bearer the right to seek entry into foreign countries and facilitates the process of returning to one's home country.

**Step 2: Examining the Validity of Travel Documents**

When considering international travel, the validity of one's travel documents is of paramount importance. An expired passport typically cannot be used for international travel as it is no longer considered a valid document by most countries, including Canada. Entry into a foreign country usually requires a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.

**Step 3: Assessing the Green Card for Entry into Canada**

While the Green Card allows for re-entry into the United States, its acceptance for entry into other countries, including Canada, is subject to specific conditions and agreements. According to the information provided, U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents may use their I-551 for travel between Canada and the United States without a passport. However, this statement requires further verification as it may not account for the passport's expiration.

**Step 4: Verifying with Current Regulations**

It is essential to verify the current regulations and agreements between the United States and Canada regarding the use of a Green Card for entry into Canada. As of my last update, a valid passport is generally required for entry into Canada, regardless of one's status as a U.S. permanent resident. The Green Card might be accepted for land and sea travel, but air travel typically requires a valid passport.

Step 5: Considering Visa Requirements

For U.S. permanent residents, a visa is not required to visit Canada, regardless of their citizenship. However, this does not negate the need for a valid travel document, such as a passport, to meet the entry requirements.

Step 6: Recommendations

Given the complexities of international travel documentation, here are my recommendations:


1. Renew Your Passport: The safest and most reliable course of action is to renew your expired passport before planning any international travel.


2. Check Current Travel Advisories: Always consult the latest travel advisories and requirements issued by both the U.S. and Canadian governments.


3. Contact Consular Services: Reach out to the nearest Canadian consulate or embassy for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding entry requirements.


4. Review Air Travel Policies: If you plan to travel by air, ensure that you understand the airline's policies regarding travel document requirements.


5. Prepare for Potential Delays: Be prepared for potential delays or complications at the border if your travel documents are not in order.

In conclusion, while a Green Card is a vital document for U.S. permanent residents, it is not a substitute for a valid passport when it comes to international travel, especially when the passport has expired. It is always best to ensure that all travel documents are up-to-date and in compliance with the entry requirements of the destination country.

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"U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents may use their I-551 ("Green Card") -- instead of a passport -- for travel between Canada and the United States, by air, land, or sea. The I-551 is accepted for entry to Canada, from the U.S.; a U.S. permanent resident does not require a visa to visit Canada, regardless of citizenship.Mar 24, 2015read more >>