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www.snowbirds.org
CSA TRAVEL INFORMATION GUIDE
If you disagree with the amount of duties and taxes levied, you may ask to speak with a superin-
tendent. A consultation can often resolve the issue quickly and without cost. The officer can provide
information regarding a formal appeal if the issue is unresolved.
How can I pay the duties on goods I import?
You, or a broker acting on your behalf, can pay by cash, certified cheque, money order, traveller’s
cheque, debit card (at locations equipped with point of sale terminals), or major credit card for duties
owing that are less than $500 CAD. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) also accepts uncerti-
fied cheques for amounts up to $2,500 CAD if:
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you have two pieces of identification, one of which is a major credit card or valid Canadian
driver’s licence;
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not more than one cheque you previously issued to the CBSA has been returned for non-
sufficient funds (NSF);
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the payment is not for a penalty;
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the cheque is from a recognized Canadian financial institution; and
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the cheque is not written by, or payable to, a third party.
The CBSA can release goods only after it receives payment and verifies all documentation. If you have
posted security with the CBSA, either directly or through a broker, the CBSA can release your goods
before payment.
Where can I find more customs information?
General customs information (calls from within Canada)
1-800-461-9999
General customs information (calls from outside Canada) – toll charges may apply
Manitoba Call Centre:
1-204-983-3500
New Brunswick Call Centre: 1-506-636-5064
Canada Border Services Agency website:
www.cbsa.gc.ca
(English)
Agence des services frontaliers du Canada web site:
www.asfc.gc.ca
(French)
A list of local customs offices can be found in the blue pages of Canadian telephone books or from the
CBSA website.
What Can I Bring Back Duty-free to Canada?
If you spend part of the year in another country for health reasons or pleasure, that country usually
considers you to be a visitor. As such, you are still a resident of Canada for customs purposes. This
means you are entitled to the same exemptions as other Canadians returning home from a vacation
or business trip. When you import foreign goods or vehicles for your personal use in Canada (even
temporarily), you have to meet all the import requirements and pay all the duties you owe.
After an absence of seven days or more, you can claim up to $750 CAD worth of goods without
paying any duties. With the exception of alcoholic beverages and tobacco products, you do not need
to have the goods with you when you arrive. Although you can include some alcoholic beverages and
tobacco products, only a partial exemption will apply to cigarettes, tobacco sticks, and loose tobacco.
You may have to pay a minimum duty on these products.