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What do I have to declare at Canada Customs?

Restricted/prohibited goods Firearms and weapons: You must declare all weapons and firearms at the CBSA port of entry when you enter Canada. Food, plants, animals and related products: All food, plants, animals, and related products must be declared. Food can carry disease, such as E. coli.



When entering Canada in 2026, you are legally required to declare all food, plant, and animal products, regardless of how small the amount may be. This includes everything from fresh fruits and snacks to processed meats and dairy. You must also declare any currency or monetary instruments (like checks or stocks) totaling $10,000 CAD or more. Failure to report large sums of cash can result in seizure and heavy fines. Additionally, you must declare any goods that exceed your personal exemptions, such as high-value gifts (over $60 CAD each), or alcohol and tobacco if you are over the duty-free limits (typically 1.5L of wine or 1.14L of spirits). Prohibited items such as firearms, weapons, and cannabis (even though it is legal within Canada) must always be declared. In 2026, most travelers use the ArriveCAN app or a Primary Inspection Kiosk to make these declarations digitally. Being honest is critical; even if an item is allowed, failing to declare it can lead to it being confiscated and you being flagged in the customs system for all future entries.

People Also Ask

Merchandise is declared to CBP. If you do not declare something that should have been declared, you risk forfeiting the item. If in doubt, declare it. You are returning from an overseas stay of at least 48 hours.

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We'll get into specifics in a bit, but as a general rule of thumb, anything you obtained abroad needs to be declared. Some examples include: Purchases made abroad, including gifts for friends and family or something you will use or sell in your business.

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Yes, customs officials have the authority to open and inspect luggage when you are entering a country. Customs officials have the right to search your luggage, bags, and personal items to ensure that you are not carrying any prohibited or restricted items.

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You may bring large sums of money with you in the form of cash, money order, or traveler's checks. There is no maximum limit, however, any amount exceeding $10,000 USD must be declared upon arrival on both the Form 6059B and FinCEN 105. All forms must be filled in completely and truthfully.

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5. When do you go through customs on international flights? Usually, you go through customs when you exit the airport at your final destination. However, if you have a layover in a different city in your destination country, you may need to go through customs before your connecting flight.

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