Bird Talk

Posted date : Dec 15, 2017.

We simply forgot to file our Form 8840 in June and filed in November – are there any likely consequences? Ross E. Alberta Response: Ed.: I believe that, as long as you filed the form, you will be fine. This is not something which you should worry about.

Posted date : Dec 15, 2017.

Just spent our first winter in Florida and left for home on March 31. Traffic leaving Florida on I-75 was extremely heavy and we were wondering if this was because we left on the last day of the month? If so, we may change our plan next year. Does anyone have more experience in this […]

Posted date : Dec 15, 2017.

I am a new member, and just now getting up to speed on all things snowbird. Question: What are the requirements in the U.S. for how long after the scheduled return to Canada does the passport have to be valid upon exit from the U.S.? P.S: have just finished reviewing “all” of the Bird Talk […]

Posted date : Dec 15, 2017.

It is also best to leave on a Saturday morning – no road work, nor business traffic. Stephen M Mississauga, ON Response: Ed.: One man’s opinion on when to head south for best results. I would add that you should check the weather forecasts all the way to your destination before setting out.

Posted date : Dec 15, 2017.

I have orange, grapefruit and lemon trees at my home in Arizona. Am I allowed to bring fruit from these trees when I return to my Alberta home? Weldon H Alberta Response: Ed.: Sorry, but absolutely not. The Department of Agriculture is very strict on these things to safeguard Canada’s crops from plagues, diseases and […]

Posted date : Dec 15, 2017.

Every year, thousands of snowbirds travel south. I am wondering if the CSA has ever approached travel hotels to work out a travellers’ discount, such as is offered with CAA? Chris C Response: Ed.: Great question and, yes, we have had hotel deals in the past. We had arrangements with Holiday Inns, Days Inns, and […]

Posted date : Dec 15, 2017.

I am in the U.S. for approximately 80 days each year so do not need to file the form, but is there any downside to filing in any case, just for peace of mind? Paul Rosenberg Vancouver, BC Response: Ed: CSA recommends filing if you stay for longer than three months in the U.S. There […]

Posted date : Dec 15, 2017.

Ed: In CSANews Issue 101 we, meaning me, provided an incorrect response to a Bird Talk letter from Weldon Hehr regarding importing fruit from the U.S. into Canada. I am not sure where my mind was when I answered the question, because I have often imported fruit from the U.S. myself. I also send fruit […]

Posted date : Dec 15, 2017.

I would like to know how many months we can be in the U.S. every year and when does the year start? All this in plain English. Thank you. Joe Hall Niagara Falls, ON Response: Ed.: The year starts on the day you cross the border. You may stay for up to six months during […]

Posted date : Dec 15, 2017.

Do you have to return to Canada for 30 days or more to get a new B2 visa, or can you go to Mexico or other countries? Maurice Michaud Response: Ed.: The B2 visa is verbally issued by, and applies only for travel to, the United States. You may travel to other places any time, […]