Grand Canyon Entry Rules for International Visitors Explained
International visitors are welcome at Grand Canyon National Park, and entry into the park remains open and accessible. However, beginning in 2026, new federal regulations introduce additional fees for non U.S. residents visiting certain national parks, including the Grand Canyon.
If you are traveling from outside the United States, this guide explains how Grand Canyon entry works, what the new nonresident fee is, how annual passes are affected, and how to plan your visit to the South Rim.
Are reservations required to enter the Grand Canyon
No reservations are required to enter Grand Canyon National Park for international visitors. Entry is handled at park entrance stations, where visitors pay the standard entrance fee or present a valid park pass.
This remains true year round, including peak seasons such as spring, summer, and holidays. While wait times may increase during busy periods, access itself does not require advance booking.
What is the nonresident fee
Under Donald Trump’s Executive Order Making America Beautiful Again by Improving Our National Parks, the Secretary of the Interior was directed to develop a strategy to increase revenue and improve recreational experiences at national parks by increasing entrance and recreation pass fees for nonresidents.
As a result, a new nonresident fee applies to non U.S. residents visiting 11 of the most visited national parks, including the Grand Canyon.
Beginning in 2026, non U.S. residents aged 16 and older will pay
• The standard park entrance fee
• An additional $100 nonresident fee per person
Revenue from this fee is intended to be used to improve park infrastructure, access, and overall visitor experience.
Which parks charge the nonresident fee
The nonresident fee applies to the following national parks
Acadia
Bryce Canyon
Everglades
Glacier
Grand Canyon
Grand Teton
Rocky Mountain
Sequoia and Kings Canyon
Yellowstone
Yosemite
Zion
How many people are covered by the nonresident fee
The nonresident fee is charged per person. Each non U.S. resident aged 16 or older is required to pay the $100 fee in addition to the standard entrance fee.
How residency status is verified
To purchase an America the Beautiful Resident Annual Pass, visitors must show proof of U.S. citizenship or residency. Acceptable documents include
A U.S. passport
A U.S. state or territory issued driver’s license or ID
A Permanent Resident card or green card
Visitors who cannot provide proof of U.S. residency will be required to purchase the nonresident pass or pay applicable nonresident fees.
How residency is checked for digital passes
For digital passes, visitors will be required to show a photo ID at the time of use, which is already standard practice for annual passes.
If a visitor is found to be ineligible for a resident pass, they will be required to upgrade to the nonresident option. Clear eligibility language is included during digital pass checkout to avoid confusion.
America the Beautiful annual pass pricing starting in 2026
Beginning January 1, 2026, the America the Beautiful Annual Pass will have two pricing tiers
• U.S. residents: $80 per year
• Non U.S. residents: $250 per year
The $250 nonresident annual pass covers
One vehicle
Two motorcycles
Or the passholder plus three additional adults where per person fees apply
Will passes purchased before 2026 still be honored
Yes. Annual passes purchased in 2025 or earlier will be honored under their original terms for the full 12 month validity period.
These passes will continue to cover
Park entrance fees
Nonresident fees for eligible travelers within the same vehicle or party
How fee free days work for international visitors
Beginning in 2026, fee free days at national parks will apply only to U.S. residents.
On fee free days
• U.S. residents receive free entrance
• Non U.S. residents must still pay both the standard entrance fee and the $100 nonresident fee
Planning your visit as an international traveler
The South Rim is the most popular and accessible area of the Grand Canyon for international visitors. During peak seasons, entrance lines and parking congestion are common.
Staying near the South Rim reduces transportation challenges and makes early morning and evening visits easier. Many international travelers choose accommodations just outside the park or glamping near the South Rim instead of traditional Grand Canyon hotels to balance comfort, accessibility, and quieter evenings.
Final thoughts for international visitors
International visitors can still enjoy the Grand Canyon with minimal barriers. No reservations are required to enter the park, but new nonresident fees beginning in 2026 affect how visitors plan and budget for their trip.
Understanding these fees, preparing documentation, and choosing lodging close to the South Rim can make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.
