The Canada / US border is reputed to be the friendliest border in the world. Below are a few guidelines to help make your crossing as quick and easy as possible. With the current increase in security concerns it still generally takes less than 1/2 hour to cross the border. It is possible however to meet with longer border crossing delays, especially at peak crossing times. For current border crossing times follow this link: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/bwt-taf/menu-eng.html

CUSTOMS RESTRICTIONS FOR VISITORS TO CANADA

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES AND TOBACCO PRODUCTS

For short-term visitors to Canada, the following restrictions apply per person:

-1.14 liters (40 oz.) of liquor or wine, or 24 x 355ml (12 oz.) bottles or cans of beer or ale (8.5 liters)

-200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or cigarillos or 400 grams of manufactured tobacco or 400 tobacco sticks

You must be 19 years of age or older to import alcoholic beverages or tobacco products into Ontario.

WEAPONS

Firearms are strictly controlled and many are not permitted in Canada. Handguns and assault weapons are strictly prohibited. U.S. law enforcement personnel and other persons legally carrying a firearms may check their firearms with Canada Customs and Immigration at their point of entry into Canada and the firearms will be returned to them when they leave Canada at the same border point or at another prearranged border point at their discretion.

OTHER GOODS

Certain goods are restricted from entering Canada. If you are considering importing meat or dairy products, weapons, plants, vehicles, or exotic animals or products made from their skins or feathers, please contact Canada Customs beforehand for guidance.

WHILE IN CANADA

MEDICAL INSURANCE

Double check that your insurance policy covers you during your time in Canada. Consider purchasing supplemental or other insurance if your own policy is not enough. You may wish to check with your health insurance company to ensure that your policy includes coverage for medical evacuations to the United States as well as escorts to the United States, hospitalization abroad, premature birth abroad, and other coverage for a beneficiary who is involved in an accident or illness outside the United States. Carry details of your insurance plan with you (and leave a copy with a relative or friend at home).

**Please note: The U.S. Social Security Medicare Program does not provide for payment of hospital or medical services outside the United States.

AUTOMOBILE RADAR DETECTORS

It is illegal to take automobile radar detectors into the provinces of Quebec, Ontario, and Manitoba or into the Yukon and Northwest territories. The police will confiscate radar detectors, whether in use or not, and may impose fines up to $1000.