Snowbirds’ return checklist: Preparing for a hassle-free entry into Canada

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The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Canadian Snowbird Association are advising Canadians who have wintered overseas to plan their return this spring meticulously for a seamless re-entry.

Here are essential travel tips for re-entering Canada:

Always have your travel documents accessible, regardless of your mode of travel—land, air, or sea. Preparedness can expedite your processing time.

If you’re driving back, check the border wait times in advance. You can bypass long lines by crossing during off-peak times, such as early morning.

For those flying, utilize the Advance Declaration feature. Download the app on your smartphone to complete your customs declaration up to 72 hours before landing in Canada at major airports including Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. This feature has been shown to cut time at kiosks or eGates by up to 50%.

Be ready to declare all goods. Organize and keep your receipts for purchases made abroad handy, and use the CBSA’s duty and taxes estimator available on the I Declare guide. Remember, you’re accountable for every item in your vehicle.

Understand your duty and tax exemptions: After a stay of over seven days outside Canada, you can bring in up to CAN$800 worth of goods duty-free. This includes up to two bottles of wine, one large bottle of liquor, about 24 beer cans or bottles, 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 200 grams of manufactured tobacco, and 200 tobacco sticks, all marked “duty paid.”

Traveling with prescription medication? Declare it and ensure it is in a properly labeled container. Check the regulations regarding narcotics and controlled substances.

If traveling with firearms, familiarize yourself with the import regulations or consider leaving them behind.

If importing a vehicle, know the rules whether for temporary or permanent importation, especially from the U.S. or Mexico. Visit the Registrar of Imported Vehicles website for comprehensive guidance.

Bringing poultry into Canada? Ensure it’s retail packaged and labeled as a “Product of the USA.” Homemade poultry items are not permitted. Check the latest travel restrictions related to poultry and birds from the U.S.

Traveling with pets or importing animals? Prepare the necessary documents to meet Canada’s import requirements.

Unsure about something? Speak to a CBSA officer. Being forthright and following their guidance can save time. Don’t hesitate to ask officers if you’re uncertain about what to declare; they’re there to assist.

Quick facts:

• The CBSA ensures national security and public safety while facilitating the free movement of individuals and goods.
• The Canadian Snowbird Association, a non-profit advocacy group, represents over 115,000 traveling Canadians.