Between the United States and Canada there is a thin, imaginary line marked in various places by customs agents who are there to enforce rules. These regulations are set up to protect citizens on either side of the border, but the rules frequently change. The following is a list of crossing border issues that you should be aware of.
How to Cross the US/Canada Border With Pets
Generally, crossing with common pets like dogs and cats is relatively easy. However, certain situations can cause complications:
- Rabies Vaccination: Pets over 12 weeks old require a valid rabies vaccination certificate. While Canada doesn’t have a specific waiting period after vaccination, the US requires the vaccination to have been administered at least 90 days before entry. This applies to service dogs when leaving Canada, but not when returning or entering.
- Age and Number of Animals: Bringing three or more animals under 12 weeks old (too young for rabies vaccination) can be problematic.
- Exotic Animals: Reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, exotic animals, and endangered bird species have specific regulations and may require permits. Check with the relevant authorities for details.
- Health and Appearance: Animals appearing unhealthy or showing signs of distemper may be refused entry. A veterinarian’s certificate confirming the animal’s health can be helpful, especially if your pet has a condition that might appear otherwise.
- Pet Birds: Specific bird species, like pigeons and doves, may be prohibited. Pet birds must be caged, and proof of ownership (90 days or more) is often required.
Pet Foods
Bringing pet food is usually acceptable, especially for longer trips. However, customs officials are strict due to concerns about animal diseases. If you are worried about bringing a specific pet food, make sure to follow the steps in the list below:
- Check the permitted types of meat and poultry and packaging regulations.
- Bring grocery receipts matching the food labels.
- Food must have legible labels, preferably in English or French. Foreign language or damaged labels may lead to confiscation.
Vehicles
Vehicles should be shipped into the U.S using professional automobile shipping companies. They are aware of customs rules, taxes, and any other factors that could influence your ability to transfer a vehicle into either country. The two main issues here are environmental safety and personal safety. If the vehicle is not safe, then the custom officials won’t allow you to drive it across the border.
Duty-Free Items
Duty-free purchases must be for use in the country of purchase. Keep receipts readily available. Avoid purchasing goods and immediately returning home; there are measures in place to prevent this. Declare all duty-free items, even within allowances, when flying to avoid fines.
When flying, stewardesses hand out cards for passengers to declare duty free goods. If they do not declare these items, even if they are within their limits, fines will be levied against them.
Jewelry and Other Valuable Items
Many people cross the border to attend special events, to work, or to study. In most cases, people will bring along their jewelry and other valuables. Valuables are items that are obviously expensive to own, possibly unique, and maybe designer products.
When traveling with jewelry or other valuables, document them before your trip. Pre-registering items with customs, including serial numbers or identifying marks, can simplify your return. Photos and appraisals can also be helpful.
Restricted Items for Border Crossings
Commonly restricted or prohibited items include:
- Firearms and weapons
- Meat
- Fish
- Fruit
- Live bait
Regulations vary depending on the specific item and direction of travel. All permitted food items must be labeled and packaged appropriately, with legible labels in a language understood by customs officials. Be aware that even seemingly minor items might be restricted due to agricultural or other concerns.
What Identification Do I Need?
- Air Travel: Passports are required.
- Land Travel: Other forms of identification may be accepted, but a passport is always recommended.
- Children: Proof of citizenship is mandatory for children.
Past Offenses
Even old offenses, such as a DUI, can cause issues at the border. If you have a criminal record, consult with an attorney to explore options for record expungement or other legal solutions before attempting to cross the border. Addressing these issues proactively is crucial.
Are You Unsure If You’ll Be Able to Cross the Border?
What if something goes wrong at the border but you did plan ahead? You brought all necessary documents, but something went wrong?
Contact VisaPlace today. All of our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.
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President & CEO
Michael Niren
Mr. Niren is CEO of VisaPlace LLC and the President and Managing Partner of VisaPlace Legal Canada, an immigration law firm based in Toronto, and VisaPlace Legal US a law firm registered in The District of Columbia, USA. Mr. Niren is a graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto, a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada, the Canadian Bar Association’s Citizenship and Immigration Section, American Lawyers Association, and an Associate Member of the American Bar Association.
