With the long weekend here and great weather expected, many Manitobans will likely be travelling to the United States this weekend.
Last year’s Louis Riel Day saw approximately 4,000 travellers returning through the port of Emerson. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is making every effort to minimize border wait times during this peak period. Travellers can facilitate their re-entry into Canada by keeping the following tips in mind:
Plan ahead to avoid delays at the Canada-U.S. land border
The CBSA suggests that you avoid travelling during peak periods where possible, especially afternoons and evenings. At the 24-hour port of entry in Emerson, we are taking the steps required to help reduce delays, including increasing resources and additional overtime. However, the high volume of cross border shoppers may result in delays at the border during peak periods. The CBSA reminds travellers that the Emerson port of entry is open 24/7 and has the greatest capacity to process large volumes of travellers and recommends travelers returning to Canada avoid smaller ports such as Tolstoi and Winkler when possible.
Carry appropriate ID
A passport is not mandatory, but you do need to provide a government issued photo ID and proof of citizenship. Since CBSA officers watch closely for missing children and may ask you detailed questions about the children you are travelling with, it is important that you carry appropriate identification for yourself and for all children travelling with you, regardless of their ages. If you have legal custody or share custody of the children, be sure to have copies of the relevant legal documents, such as those describing custody rights.
Declare all merchandise you have bought and have all your receipts on hand
Officers may ask you to show receipts for the goods you have purchased and your hotel receipts to verify the length of your stay outside Canada. To avoid unnecessary delays, keep all receipts together and ensure they are readily available. TIP: write out a total dollar amount in Canadian funds of all purchases for yourself and passengers travelling with you.
Be aware of your personal exemptions
Depending on the length of your stay outside Canada, you may be entitled to certain personal exemptions. After being away for 24 hours or more, you can bring back goods, tax and duty-free, worth up to CAN$200. After being away for 48 hours or more, you can bring back goods, tax and duty-free, worth up to CAN$800.
Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products
Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products may be included in your 48-hour or 7-day exemption, provided you are of legal age. Certain restrictions apply.
Know before you go
Certain goods are prohibited or restricted from entering Canada (weapons; certain plant and animal products, certain protective hockey equipment, and certain baby items, etc.). You can find out more about this by consulting the I Declare brochure, available online.
For more information, visit the CBSA website or contact the Border Information Service at 1-800-461-9999.
