The Canada Border Services Agency is expecting heavy volumes at its border crossings Nov 23-25 and are offering some general travel tips to the public.
Travel Tips:
• Border wait times for land borders are available at www.cbsa.gc.ca, or follow us on Twitter for hourly border wait time updates at BWT_CBSA.
• Ensure that you have proper identification for yourself and everyone in the vehicle readily available.
• Turn off radios and cell phones when approaching the inspection booths, roll down your window, remove sunglasses and speak directly to the border services officer.
• Stop at the stop sign when entering a primary lane. The driver of the vehicle should concentrate on driving while a passenger holds the identification until it is required to be presented to the officer.
• Declare all purchases made and have your receipts readily available.
Know your personal exemptions, after being away for:
• Less than 24 hours: There is no personal exemption for stays less than 24 hours.
• 24 hours or more: CAN$200 – if the amount being imported exceeds CAN$200, the duty and taxes are applicable on the entire amount of the imported goods.
• 48 hours or more: CAN$800 – including alcohol and tobacco; duty and taxes are applicable on the amount of imported goods above CAN$800.
• 7 days or more: CAN$800 – including alcohol and tobacco; duty and taxes are applicable on the amount of imported goods above CAN$800. Goods may be in your possession at time of entry to Canada but are also permitted to follow entry to Canada (via courier, mail or delivery agent or pickup by the importer). Alcohol and tobacco must be in your possession at the time of entry to qualify for a duty-free exemption.
