Canada Border Control

2801_Drapeau_Canada-paysage.png AVE-sans texte-web.jpg Entry rules to Canada are changing

Since March 15, 2016, visa-exempt foreign nationals who fly to or transit through Canada need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid visa.  Apply now for an eTA ! 

 

2801_Drapeau_Canada-paysage.pngIcon_Douanes.pngPrimary inspection

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is responsible for providing integrated border services in Canada, including customs, immigration and luggage inspection services. In major airports, CBSA agents are assisted by dog handlers and dogs that have been specially trained to detect restricted or prohibited items, such as fruit, meat and cheese, by sniffing travellers’ luggage.

When you arrive, you must have uploaded and provided all required information through ArriveCan

You will be asked to answer a few questions, particularly with respect to the duration of your stay outside the country and the goods you are bringing back into Canada:

  • The personal exemptions to which you are entitled vary based on the duration of your stay.
  • Generally speaking, the merchandise that you may include in your personal exemption must be intended for your personal or domestic use.
  • Certain conditions apply to tobacco products and alcoholic beverages. 
  • There are restrictions on firearms, food products, animals and vegetables, endangered species and cultural goods.

 

2801_Drapeau_Canada-paysage.pngIcon_Bagages.pngBaggage claim

Once customs formalities are complete, proceed to the baggage claim area and consult the illuminated display panels to find the carousel number assigned to your flight. All fragile luggage, oversized bags and pets are delivered on a specially designed conveyor belt, located on the periphery of the carousel area.

Luggage delivery is the responsibility of your air carrier. If one of your suitcases is missing or damaged, or for any other similar problem, please go to your airline’s baggage service counter, located just before the baggage claim area exit.

Before leaving the terminal, double-check that the suitcases you have picked up are indeed yours.

Luggage trolleys are available, free of charge, on the arrivals and departures levels at Montréal–Trudeau. You may also request assistance from a porter by contacting your airline—a representative will call a porter for you.

 

2801_Drapeau_Canada-paysage.pngIcon_Securite.pngSecondary inspection

Before exiting into the public hall, you must give your Declaration Card to a CBSA officer, who will tell you whether you need to proceed to the secondary inspection area. This consists of a manual inspection of your luggage and, in some cases, a search.

If you are travelling with a pet, you must present the animal’s health report and pay the entry fees. You will also be expected to pay any fees owed in relation to your declared purchases to the cashier. 

Delayed or withheld luggage

The luggage pickup service counter (for delayed or withheld items) is located in the public international arrivals hall, at the end of the corridor. Use one of the telephones provided to speak with an attendant.

Cannabis Act

As part as the Cannabis Act, in effect as of October 17, 2018, passengers should visit the Government of Canada site for more information on cannabis guidelines and travel abroad.