When arriving in Canada, it’s important to understand which items need to be declared, which items are prohibited, and which may incur taxes or duties.
Failure to declare certain items could lead to penalties or even denial of entry.
Items to Declare Upon Entry
At any Canadian port of entry, the following items must be declared to border officials:
- Alcohol: Must meet age requirements, varying by province (18-19 years).
- Tobacco: Includes all tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, and loose-leaf tobacco.
- Firearms and Weapons: These must be declared, and age and permit restrictions apply.
- Food, Plant, and Animal Products: Includes items such as raw meats, plants, fruits, seeds, and live animals.
- Currency over 10,000 CAD: Declare any currency or financial instruments valued above 10,000 CAD.
Failure to declare these items can lead to fines, prosecution, or confiscation.
Prohibited Items in Canada
Some items are illegal to bring into Canada under any circumstances, including:
- Cannabis and Cannabis Products: All cannabis products, even legal ones, are prohibited from entry.
- Illegal Drugs: Carrying illegal drugs across borders can lead to severe penalties.
- Prohibited Firearms and Weapons: Automatic firearms and easily concealed weapons are not allowed.
- Endangered Species or Parts: Protected by CITES regulations; includes items like rhino horns or certain animal skins.
- Unknown Contents: Avoid bringing packages into Canada if you’re unsure of their contents, as you could be held liable.
Items Subject to Duty and Taxes
Items brought into Canada may incur sales tax and/or duty depending on their market value and quantity:
- Alcohol and Tobacco: Limits apply; anything beyond specified amounts is subject to additional duty and provincial taxes.
- Personal Exemptions: Returning Canadians and residents may be eligible for duty-free exemptions based on their time outside of Canada.
Duty and taxes are assessed separately, and items may be subject to both depending on their category and value.
Failing to declare required items can impact your entry into Canada.
