The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) expects a busy summer at border crossings starting on Victoria Day weekend.
Summer is always busy at border crossings, but with continuing requirements around COVID-19, CBSA is advising travelers to expect delays.
The best way to reduce waiting times is to be aware and prepared with proper documentation, which means completing the mandatory Arrivcan submission within 72 hours before arriving at the border.
Beginning April 1, 2022, pre-entry tests were no longer required for fully vaccinated travelers entering Canada by land, air or water. All travelers, regardless of vaccination status, are required to submit their information to ArriveCAN (free as a mobile app or website) up to 72 hours prior to entering Canada. ArriveCAN collects contact, health and travel information and expedites processing at the border to protect the health and safety of passengers. It is the fastest, easiest and safest way for travelers to demonstrate that they meet public health requirements.
• Passengers should ensure that they have the latest version of the ArriveCAN app.
• Passengers should print or take a screenshot of their ArrivaCan receipt and bring it with them during the journey.
• Passengers without smartphone or mobile data can sign in online and submit their information. If passengers are unable to enter their own information, they can ask a friend or family member to enter the information.
You can answer some quick questions online to determine whether you can enter Canada. Currently, travelers flying into Toronto (YYZ) or Vancouver (YVR) can use ArriveCAN to complete customs and immigration declarations. In future, this service will be expanded to other airports as well.
The CBSA also recommends that you try to avoid busy hours, such as Mondays on long weekends. Try it early in the morning.
Take all of your receipts for purchases made outside the country, and know your discount limit. Residents can bring back CAN$200 worth of tax and duty free baggage after being away for 24 hours, and bring back CAN$800 worth of baggage after 48 hours. There is no personal exemption for same-day cross-border shopping trips, so be prepared to pay tax on those purchases and possibly fees.
Read: BC holiday travelers face long waits at borders, ferries, airports
A
[email protected]
Like us on Facebook and follow us Twitter
