Customs Information

Customs Office Phone Numbers and Hours:

Before you travel to Canada visit the Canada Border Services Agency web site.

ID Requirements

After June 1, 2009 all U.S. citizens travelling through Canada will be required to show their passport. Driver's licenses or birth certificates alone may no longer be accepted as proof of citizenship. Traveling onboard an AMHS vessel between Bellingham, Washington and Ketchikan, Alaska these rules and restrictions do not apply, although the vessel travels through Canadian waters.

Starting June 1, 2009, Canadian citizens will be required to present a valid passport, a NEXUS or Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card, or an enhanced driver's licence/enhanced identification card when seeking to enter the United States at its land or water crossings. For more information, visit the Canada Border Services Agency web site.

U.S. residents who are not citizens should carry their Alien Registration Receipt Cards. Permanent residents of Canada who are not Canadian citizens should have their Landed Immigrant Visas. Canadian customs officials will require travelers to show proof of sufficient funds for the trip. Motorists may be asked to show their vehicle registration card or proof of title and liability insurance coverage.

If you are traveling with a child not in your full legal custody, please check with a U.S. or Canada customs office about additional paperwork that may be required.

Firearms

Canada has enacted strict laws with respect to the import, export, possession, use storage, display and transportation of firearms. These federal laws came into effect on January 1, 2001. Canadian government administrative fees and approvals are required for the transport of weapons through Canada, and some weapons are prohibited altogether. Visitors should check with Canadian customs prior to traveling, or get more information on the Internet at the Canada Border Services Agency and the Canadian Firearms Centre.