Ottawa Reminds Travellers to Prepare Ahead

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has released a comprehensive advisory for summer travellers, encouraging proper planning before crossing into Canada. The announcement was made on June 23, 2025, from Ottawa, Ontario, as part of the agency’s seasonal effort to ensure safe and efficient border processing during peak travel months.

Border Services Gear Up for Busy Season

As millions of travellers head toward Canadian borders this summer, CBSA is working to balance safety with speed. In 2024, the agency processed more than 93.4 million travellers, intercepted over 34,400 kilograms of illegal drugs, and seized over 930 firearms and 17,200 weapons. The summer surge is being closely monitored, especially around long weekends, to manage traffic flow at land ports and international airports.

Travel Documents and Declarations Crucial

CBSA officials stress the importance of keeping travel documents ready and being honest about declarations. Whether arriving by land, air, or water, all travellers must declare what they are bringing into the country—including purchases made abroad. Canadians returning home must ensure receipts reflect goods’ value in Canadian dollars and should be aware of personal exemption limits on alcohol, tobacco, and other items.

U.S. Goods May Face Surtax

Travellers bringing goods from the United States should be aware of a 25% surtax that may apply beyond exemption limits. The surtax targets specific U.S.-origin goods as part of trade measures. CBSA advises checking the full list of surtaxed items on their website before shopping or importing.

Digital Declarations and Smart Routes Recommended

To ease congestion at airports, CBSA suggests using the Advance Declaration feature, available at select Canadian airports, allowing travellers to submit customs information up to 72 hours before arrival. Drivers are encouraged to monitor real-time border wait times, travel early in the day, or use alternative ports of entry with shorter queues.

Boaters, Campers, and Families Take Note

Private boat operators entering Canadian waters must follow reporting rules immediately upon arrival. Campers should avoid bringing foreign firewood, which may carry invasive pests. Those traveling with minors for whom they lack legal custody are advised to carry written consent from guardians to avoid delays or added scrutiny.

Know What Not to Bring

CBSA emphasizes that certain items—such as firearms, fireworks, narcotics, and cannabis—are strictly prohibited or tightly regulated. Travellers found in violation may face severe penalties, including seizure, fines, or criminal charges. A full list of restricted items is available on the CBSA website.

Transparency Is the Best Policy

CBSA urges travellers not to guess when uncertain about declarations. Asking a CBSA officer directly is the safest way to prevent delays or penalties. “The best way to save time is to be open and honest,” the agency advises.

For more details and updates, travellers can visit the [CBSA website](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca) or contact their helpline at 1-800-461-9999.

*This article is published by Maple News Wire, your trusted source for Canadian public updates.*

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