On trip day, you only have one thing left to check – how long will it take you to get across the border. With the current increase in security concerns it still generally takes less than 1/2 hour to cross the border. It is possible however to meet with longer border crossing delays, especially at peak crossing times.
 
Wondering if there will be any delay when crossing the border?

Check out the border wait times online. Each Canadian border location updates its estimated wait times at least once an hour, and this Web page is refreshed every 10 minutes if some of the information has changed. To make sure you have our current information, use your browser's refresh or reload function.

A wireless version of Border Wait Times is also available as part of the Government of Canada's Wireless Portal.

 

Making a Declaration

Here’s what you can expect when you cross the border into Canada: Canadian Customs officials will ask your place of residence (country and city) the purpose of your visit to Canada, how long you intend to stay, and if you have anything to declare. You may be asked specifically if you are bringing alcohol, tobacco, fruit, vegetables, animals or items made from animal by-products, firearms or personal protection devices into Canada.

Canadian Customs conducts random car checks as well as conducting searches on suspicious individuals.  Should you be randomly selected for a car search, remain calm, be polite and respond to the requests of the Customs officials.  The more relaxed and open you remain during the search, the more the officials will trust you – and you will be moved through the process more as a formality, and will be sent on your way more quickly.

Visitors arriving in Canada by private aircraft or private boat may be extended the benefit of reporting to Canada Customs by telephone.