
A Simple Travelers Guide To
Crossing the Border
First time traveling to Canada or simply need a refresher on border crossing requirements? Whether you’re flying or driving, a smooth border crossing starts with a little preparation. Our quick and easy guide will help ensure your journey is hassle-free. We’ll cover everything from essential documents to tips for a seamless experience.
For more detailed information on crossing the border into Canada, review official CBSA information here.
Guide Quick Links
For an official overview before you leave on your trip, we recommend reviewing the CBSA Border Reminder Checklist.
Are You Admissible?
Before you travel or even begin planning your trip, it’s crucial to understand if you’re allowed into Canada. Some situations can make you “inadmissible,” meaning you might be denied entry at the border.
If you’re unsure about your situation, check the official Government of Canada website or talk to an immigration lawyer.
There are a number of reasons you can be found inadmissible and refused entry to Canada such as:
Criminal Record
Even minor offenses can affect your admissibility.
Important: If you have a DUI, you’re generally considered inadmissible. However, there are ways to overcome this:
- Apply for Rehabilitation: This is a process to show you’ve changed and are no longer a risk.
- Get a Temporary Resident Permit: This is a special permission to enter Canada despite being inadmissible.
- Wait for Deemed Rehabilitation: In some cases, enough time passing since your DUI can make you admissible again.
Depending on the crime, how long ago it was committed, and how you have behaved since the conviction, you may still be allowed to come to Canada if you take the appropriate actions. Visit the CBSA Overcome Criminal Convictions page for more information.
Health Concerns
Certain medical conditions may be deemed a public health or safety risk, or your condition might place excessive demand on Canada’s healthcare system.
Money Issues
You need to show you can support yourself financially during your stay.
Past Immigration Problems
If you’ve overstayed a visa or had other issues before, it could affect your entry.
Visit the CBSA Determine Your Eligibility page for more information and a quick tool to assess your eligibility.
Essential Documents
Ensure you have a valid passport or an alternative travel document such as a NEXUS card or an Enhanced Driver’s License/ID Card. Depending on your nationality and purpose of travel, you might also need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Always carry proof of sufficient funds, registration and insurance information for any vehicles or watercrafts, and any supporting documents related to your trip.
Proof of Citizenship
A valid passport is required to cross the border into Canada with some exceptions and limitations noted below. Passport Cards are valid ONLY at land border crossings. For international air travel or air travel as a nonresident of Canada, you will need an official passport.
Other forms of identification: NEXUS Card, Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EIC)
Proof of Sufficient Funds
Be prepared to demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada.
Supporting Documents
If applicable, carry documents that support your purpose of travel, such as invitation letters, work permits, or study permits.
Vehicle Registration & Insurance
If you are driving across the border, ensure your vehicle registration and insurance are up-to-date and you are carrying proof at all times.
Boat Registration & Insurance
Registration and proof of insurance should be carried with you as well if bringing your personal watercraft into Canada.
Snowmobile Registration & Insurance
Registration and proof of insurance should be carried with you as well if bringing your personal snowmobile(s) into Canada.
Traveling with Children?
Children under 12 traveling with both parents need only a passport or passport card (US land border crossings only). If a child is traveling with only one parent, a letter of consent from the other spouse is required, giving permission to bring the child into the country.
A consent letter should be used for all cross-border travel when a child is traveling alone, with only 1 parent or guardian, in the care of friends or relatives, or with a group (such as a sports, school, musical or religious group). This includes day trips and travel where a child will be with only 1 parent for part of a trip. For example, a child will leave Canada with both parents but will return with only 1 parent. To avoid delays, have your consent letter formally notarized to support its authenticity
For more information on traveling with children, visit the CBSA Travel & Identification Documents page and detailed information on Consent Letters here.
Goods & Restricted Items
Be prepared to declare all goods you’re bringing with on your trip, and don’t forget to consider the duty-free limits on liquor and tobacco especially. Familiarize yourself with restricted and prohibited items, such as firearms, certain food products, and plants, to avoid any issues at the border. If you’re unsure about any specific item, it’s always better to check with the Canada Border Services Agency beforehand. Honesty and transparency are key to a smooth customs experience.
You should always review the CBSA Restricted & Prohibited Goods information before you travel.
Food
If you bring food into Canada for personal use on your trip, be aware of federal import requirements. There may be restrictions on the items you bring in and they can vary depending on the item, the country it originates from, and the Canadian province you’re bringing it to.
You can review the restrictions on food products brought into Canada for personal use here.
Liquor & Tobacco
View the official CBSA Alcohol & Tobacco Limits
As long as you are of the legal age, you are allowed to bring into Canada the following without having to pay duty and taxes:
- One carton of cigarettes
and only one of the following amounts of alcohol and alcoholic beverages:
- One 40oz bottle of hard liquor
- Two 750ml bottles of wine (53oz total)
- One case of bear (24 cans)
You can bring across more, but if you do, remember you MUST declare the amount and be prepared to pay duty and taxes.
Bait for Recreational Fishing
You cannot bring most live bait, including minnows, leeches, and other baitfish, across the border into Canada from the United States. This is due to regulations aimed at preventing the spread of invasive species and diseases.
There are a few exceptions:
- Nightcrawlers: You can bring nightcrawlers into Canada with a Plant Protection Import Permit from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
- Artificial bait: Artificial lures and baits are generally allowed.
Bait purchased in Canada: You generally cannot bring bait across provincial borders in Canada. Each province has its own regulations regarding bait transport to prevent the spread of invasive species and fish diseases.
Knives
Bringing knives into Canada, particularly for fishing purposes, is generally permitted, but there are some important guidelines to keep in mind:
General Knife Regulations:
- No prohibited knives: Certain knives are prohibited in Canada, including automatic knives (switchblades), butterfly knives, and gravity knives.
- Declare all knives: You must declare any knives you are bringing into Canada at the border.
- Fillet knives: These are generally allowed as they are considered tools for preparing fish.
- Multi-tools: Multi-tools with blades are also usually permitted, as long as the blade is not the primary function of the tool.
Air travel with knives:
Keep in mind that regulations for international air travel out of Canada can vary dependent on the arrival country. For travel into or within Canada, you should review CATSA information before you fly for strict limits on blade length for knives and multi-tools in carry on vs checked luggage.
Firearms / Weapons
Canada has stringent firearms and weapons regulations, significantly different from those in the United States. You must declare all weapons and firearms at the CBSA port of entry when you enter Canada or you will face serious consequences.
Make sure to thoroughly check over and remove any firearms, ammunition, or other weapons from your vehicle before you head to the border for your trip.
Prescriptions / Medications
If you take prescription medication, ensure that it is kept in the bottle with all of your prescription information detailed on the label. We recommend keeping any over-the-counter medications in their original packaging as well and not mixing any pills.
Currency & Valuables
If you have currency or monetary instruments equal to or greater than CAN$10,000 (or the equivalent in a foreign currency) in your possession when arriving in or departing from Canada, you must report to the CBSA. Monetary instruments include items such as stocks, bonds, bank drafts, cheques, and travellers’ cheques.
Bringing Your Own Boat?
When bringing your personal watercraft across the border, you will need to carry your registration and proof of insurance for your boat (as well as for your vehicle).
Manitoba has a strict Clean Boats, Clean Waters program to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Be prepared to answer questions about your boat cleaning and decontamination practices as well as a potential inspection and/or decontamination at the border.
Before Entering Manitoba:
Clean:
- Remove all visible plants, animals, and mud from your boat, trailer, and any equipment that has been in contact with water.
- Pay special attention to areas like the hull, motor, live well, bilge, anchor, and trailer.
- Use high-pressure water or a brush to remove any debris.
Drain:
- Drain all water from your boat, including the live well, bilge, motor, and any other compartments that may hold water.
- ALL drain plugs must be kept out while transporting watercraft over land with the exception of plugs used in onboard kitchen and washroom facilities. Failure to remove plugs can result in a significant fine in Manitoba.
Dry:
- Allow your boat and equipment to dry completely before entering Manitoba.
- The recommended drying time is 5 days in warm, dry weather. If the weather is cool or humid, extend the drying time accordingly.
Tips & What to Expect at the Canadian Border
Before You Arrive
- Gas Up and Use the Restroom: Plan a stop at the last possible gas station before you get to the border. Fuel prices in the United States are generally much cheaper than they are in Canada, so fill your vehicle(s) before you cross. Also be sure to hit the restroom in case you are stuck waiting in a long line at the border.
- Check Wait Times: Research border wait times before you go, especially during holidays and weekends.
- Travel During Off-Peak Hours: Consider crossing the border early in the morning or late at night to avoid long lines.
- Have Your Documents Ready: Organize your documents in an easily accessible place.
- Pack Snacks and Water: Be prepared for any delays or long lines at the border.
At the Border
Expect Questions:
- Purpose of Your Trip: Be clear and concise about the reason for your visit.
- Length of Stay: State how long you plan to stay in Canada.
- Where You’ll Be Staying: Be prepared to provide information about the details of your accommodations during your stay.
- Occupation and Financial Situation: Be ready to answer questions about your job and financial means.
- Travel History: You may be asked about previous trips and countries visited. If you are bringing your own personal watercraft, you may be asked about the last waterbody it was operated on and the date of that outing.
- Items to Declare: If you are unsure whether to declare an item, or whether an item may be inadmissible, always declare it to the border services officer. Important items to consider for your trip include food, liquor and tobacco, and knives.
Be Respectful and Cooperative:
- Follow Instructions: Listen carefully and follow the instructions given by border officials.
- Answer Honestly: Provide truthful and accurate information.
- Be Patient: Border crossings can take time, especially during peak hours.
- Maintain a Positive Attitude: A friendly and respectful demeanor goes a long way.
Remember: By being prepared and informed, you can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free border crossing experience. Safe travels!