Visitors to Canada
The Canada / US border is reputed to be the friendliest border in the world. Below are a few guidelines to help make your crossing quick and easy.
Identification
US Citizens: Note: As of January 2007 Citizens and legal residents of the United States will need a valid passport to enter Canada as visitors. Your US Passport will also be necessary for re-entry to the United States.
Children: Canada Customs and Immigration officers are members of Child Find International. Anyone travelling with children not their own may be required to show written permission from the child's parent(s) and proper identification (birth certificate).
Other Countries: Visitors from countries other than the US require a valid passport and in some cases a visitor's visa. Visas are issued by Canadian Immigration offices, embassies and consulates.
Firearms
As a rule, weapons are not allowed into Canada. However, you may bring a hunting rifle or shotgun into Ontario as a visitor for hunting or competition purposes if you are 18 years of age or older, plus 200 rounds of ammunition for hunting, or 1,500 rounds for use at a recognized meet.
Firearms manufactured as a fully automatic are prohibited entry, regardless of any conversion, and no firearms less than 66 cm (26 inches) in length or with a barrel less than 36 cm (182 inches) are allowed. All firearms must be declared and registered at first point of entry. guns can be registered at Canada Customs for a fee of $50.
Pets
Dogs and cats accompanying their owners from the U.S. must have current (within 36 months) rabies vaccination certificates. Owners from other countries who wish to bring their pets should contact the nearest Canadian consulate or embassy.
Boaters
Pleasure craft may enter Canada by trailer or under their own power and stay for a period of up to 12 months. The required Entry Permit is obtainable from Customs at port-of-entry. All boats powered by motors 10 HP or over must be licensed and the license number clearly indicated on the bow of the vessel. Boat licenses from outside Ontario are acceptable.
For remote check-in: 1 (888) CANPASS (226-7277)
Criminal Records
Individuals with criminal records wishing to enter Canada can apply for a waiver. This should be done 6 - 8 weeks in advance of the intended visit. It should be noted that Driving Under the Influence convictions are considered a criminal offense in Canada. Individuals with criminal records without waivers can be refused entry. Contact the nearest port of entry Canada Immigration office for more information.
YOUR DOLLAR GOES FURTHER
US dollars and several foreign currencies enjoy a premium rate of exchange in Canada.
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
As a visitor to Canada you can claim a refund of 7% on every dollar spent while in the country on accommodation and most goods you take home. In Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario you can claim your 7% GST cash rebate at the Duty Free Store on the Canadian side of the Bridge Approach. Just be sure to keep your receipts for instant GST rebates (Minimum expenditure $200, individual receipts must total at least $50.).
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Canada Customs and Revenue Agency
Phone: 1 (800) OCANADA (622-6232)
Website: http://www.ccra-adrc.gc.ca/
24 hour Customs Info at the Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario entry:
(705) 941-3063
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