CBSA gives tips for long weekend border crossing

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Canada’s border agency has advice for cross-border Easter trips in the middle of a U.S. trade war — including a reminder that retaliatory tariffs mean people returning to Canada may face a 25 per cent surtax on purchases.

The Canada Border Services Agency issued its travel advice on Tuesday ahead of the looming long weekend.

“The CBSA plans and prepares for peak periods, including long weekends and summer months,” the agency said. “We monitor traveller volumes and take measures to minimize border wait times at land ports of entry and at international airports, without compromising safety and security.”

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The CBSA warned people to expect heavy traffic and delays at the border. The agency said the Monday of holiday long weekends tend to be the busiest. Officials said early mornings are the best time to cross to avoid lineups and delays.

The tips on entering Canada follow an updated travel advisory earlier this month from the federal government with a warning for people heading to the U.S.

The government warned that it cannot intervene if a Canadian does not meet American entry or exit requirements and is detained.

The Canadian government also stressed that every country decides who can enter or exit through its borders.

“Individual border agents often have significant discretion in making those determinations,” the Canadian government stated in its travel advisory. “U.S. authorities strictly enforce entry requirements. Expect scrutiny at ports of entry, including of electronic devices. Comply and be forthcoming in all interactions with border authorities. If you are denied entry, you could be detained while awaiting deportation.”

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Tensions at the border have been rising in recent months after U.S. President Donald Trump launched a trade war against Canada and other nations, even stating that Canada should become the 51st state.

There have been reports of people entering the U.S. being subjected to searches of their phones and other devices or detained by border officers.

The insults and aggression have led to Canadian boycotts of the U.S., including travel to the country or buying American-made products.

Given that Trump’s tariffs prompted retaliatory measures from Canada, the CBSA noted Tuesday that there are now surtaxes on many American products.

The CBSA said the 25 per cent surtax, which applies to products exceeding personal exemption limits, are in addition to other duties and taxes.

The agency said people entering Canada should declare everything they have with them, and make sure all their travel documents and receipts are ready to hand over. If you are driving into Canada, you are responsible for everything in your vehicle.

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Visitors to Canada are allowed to bring gifts, but they must be unwrapped or in gift bags so border officers can inspect them.

The CBSA also pointed out there are many restricted and prohibited items that cannot be brought into Canada, from some animals and plants to firearms and fireworks.

Fines, seizures, and prosecution could be in store for people who don’t follow the rules.

“Every day, the CBSA works hard to protect Canadians, support the economy and ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and goods across the border,” the agency said. “In 2024, we welcomed over 93.4 million travellers, stopped over 34,400 kg of illegal drugs from entering our communities and kept more than 17,200 weapons and 930 firearms off our streets.”

For more information about crossing the border, go to the CBSA website.

twilhelm@postmedia.com

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