IMMIGRATION

Proof of citizenship is required when entering Canada. Delegates from countries other than the U.S.A. will probably require a passport, and in certain cases, a visa. To determine which documents you require, please contact the Canadian Embassy or Canadian Consulate in your country. Please visit the following website for more information: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/offices/missions.html Visitors should ask about visa requirements before departing as these documents are not available at the border.

U.S.A.

Canada has an open border with the United States. Therefore, citizens or legal, permanent residents of the United States do not require passports or visas and can usually cross the U.S.A./Canada border without difficulty or delay. However, proof of citizenship is required. Documents such as a passport, or original birth certificate plus photo I.D. are acceptable. For further information, please contact the nearest Canadian Consulate or the Canadian Embassy at 1-202-682-1740, prior to departure or visit the following website: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/can-am/

Recently purchased items, such as cameras, tape recorders or personal computers should be registered with US Customs before leaving the U.S.A. to prove they were purchased before entering Canada.

Re-entry into the United States can be simplified if travelers list all purchases before they reach the border, keep sales receipts handy, and pack purchases separately for convenience of inspection.

U.S. residents returning from Canada after more than 48 hours may take back, free of duty, $400.00 worth of articles for personal or household use, based on fair retail value in Canada.
These articles must accompany the individual. (If all or part of this personal exemption has been claimed in the preceding 30 days, visitors are limited to a $25.00 individual exemption).

GENERAL INFORMATION

Personal baggage, i.e. clothing, camera, tape recorders, personal computers, etc., are exempt from duties and taxes, provided they accompany the delegate, and are declared to Canada Customs upon entering Canada. It is forbidden to carry any sharp objects in hand baggage. All baggage is subject to search.

Persons of legal age may bring into Canada duty-free either:

a) 1.5 litres of liquor or wine, or
b) 24 - 12 ounce cans or bottles of beer or ale.

Persons 16 years or older may bring in duty-free 50 cigars, or 200 cigarettes.

For any other questions, please contact Kelly Becker at 800-274-2237, ext 5422 or via e-mail at kbecker@stfm.org.