The land border is unrestricted, its holiday season, and road vacations are within grasp! You’ll need these travel tips to cross the Canadian border into the United States, whether you’re planning a fast shopping trip, a family weekend getaway, or a long vacation.
Before you leave, you should also verify the latest facts. Although there are still things to think about before you leave, visiting the United States from Canada can take less planning than visiting some other countries.
Therefore, we have put together some crucial travel tips to help you cross the Canadian border into the United States, avoid delays, and get on your way.
1. Get your Essential Documents Ready
The first thing you should do while planning your trip across the Canadian/US border is to ensure you have all the valid travel documents you must bring, starting with a valid passport. Remember to check the expiration date to avoid being turned away by customs and border protection.
While most countries require passports to be valid for at least another six months to enter, Canadian passports can be valid until the date of leaving for the United States. However, it’s always reasonable to have free space if plans change.
Regarding obtaining visas, Canadian nationals do not need a visa or ESTA to enter the US. Still, foreign nationals from certain countries that aren’t part of the Visa Waiver Program do. So, if you’re traveling with any foreign visitors without Canadian citizenship, check their specific requirements to avoid lapses at the land border.
Another great way to pass through faster is using a trusted traveler program card like NEXUS. Remember that the government requires families with kids under 18 to have a consent letter when not traveling with both parents. Be sure not to overlook that detail!
Key Notes:
- If you’re driving to the US, you must provide proof of vehicle ownership if asked by C.B.P. officers. Ensure you always have your vehicle registration, insurance papers, or rental agreement if you’re using a hired car.
- Be prepared to answer any questions customs and border protection agents may have and show documentation about your trip itinerary.
- If your visit is more than a day, they might want to see documents indicating where you plan on staying and that you have enough funds to cover your trip.
- Also, keep any necessary permits handy for the activities you’ll be doing during your trip. You’ll be going fishing? Ensure you obtain a license ahead of time!
- There is no longer a need to show border protection agents proof of vaccination for COVID-19 or a negative test. However, from experience in recent years, these requirements are subject to change. For your peace of mind, check the latest disease control information before you go.
2. Plan the Best Time to Travel
Even though a long holiday weekend seems the perfect time to get away for a few days, it can also come with lengthy wait times at the Canadian/US land borders. If your plans are flexible, it’s best to plan to leave on a weekday, most especially in the early morning!
However, avoid hectic periods, like weekend evenings and the Mondays of long holiday weekends. Did you know you can check live wait times at Canada-US land borders? Yes, that’s right! It’s a good idea to check those ahead to avoid any hold-ups.
Several land borders are typically busier than others. Sometimes, it’s good to see if a smaller, less famous crossing is nearby to help reduce wait times. If you have a bit of a wait, a great playlist, delicious snacks, and games like 20 Questions in the car will always help you pass the time!
3. Ensure You’re Aware of and Understand What to Declare
Before returning to Canada, have your receipts readily available to show customs and border protection agents. It will be helpful in case you need to declare any purchases you made while away.
As a Canadian resident, you’ll have the chance to bring back tax and duty-free goods valued at $200 after being away for 24 hours and $800 after 48 hours. However, if you are in the US for a same-day cross-border shopping trip, there are no personal exemptions, so be prepared to pay any taxes or duties for those purchases.
The C.B.S.A. offers a handy calculator to estimate these numbers ahead of time and avoid costly surprises. Of course, respecting the customs and border protection rules is essential.
4. Avoid Bringing Prohibited Items on Your Trip
While marijuana is a legal entity in Canada, crossing the border with any form of cannabis is still a criminal offense. So, before embarking on your trip, it’s best to check the rules regarding banned or prohibited goods such as firearms, explosives, food, plants, and animals.
Make sure you’re not coming back with any prohibited items in Canada, and prepare to announce items like alcohol, food, and any other restricted products. Failure to do so can require a border inspection, adding time to your trip and causing delays!
5. Consider a NEXUS Card and Bring a Consent Letter
A NEXUS card allows low-risk, pre-approved travelers expedited access across the border. However, every person traveling with you must also have a NEXUS card to use the designated lanes.
In addition, if you’re traveling with a child who is not your own or for whom you don’t have full legal custody, bring a consent letter from the parent or legal guardian.
Conclusion
The websites of the US Customs and Border Protection and the Canada Border Services Agency have a border reminder checklist if you wish to be extra careful. Before crossing the US border and returning to Canada, you can double-check the most recent information on prohibited products. Happy and safe travels after you’ve crossed everything off your list!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to travel from Canada to the US?
Canadian residents near the border may choose to visit the US by car. However, if you’re traveling from a state far away from Canada, you can fly to the country or catch a train, bus, or ferry.
What documentation do Canadian citizens need to enter the US?
When traveling into Canada, the US requires Canadians to show a passport or NEXUS card before being allowed into the country. If you travel by car to a port of entry, US Customs and Border Protection may also request to see your vehicle registration or other documentation.