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CycleCanada.com
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Tips for crossing the Canadian/US border by bike.
Please note the information contained on this page is for general reference only. If you are considering crossing any national border by bicycle speak to a customs or immigration official prior to departure.
We have compiled this information in preparation of the Tour Great Lakes cycling trip. This 4700 kilometre (2,900 mile) trip starts in Canada, crosses into the U.S. and then re-enters Canada. Riders spend three weeks in each country. The information is predicated on this, but we have added comments that may apply to other types of cycling trips. Riders who participate in our trip receive this and other information as part of their registration package.
Immigation
If your flight stops in the US en route to Canada, you may clear customs and immigration at that transit point. You will be issued a visa of sorts, but it is a transit/one day visa only. It will not apply to re-entry into the US.
If you do decide to enter the US from Canada and you haven't already organized a visa, you may be able to obtain a short term visa at the border or at a local immigration office. The fee is US $6.00. If you are going to buy your visa at the border be sure to have the right change in US funds. If all you have is a ten dollar bill, don't even think of saying "keep the change".
Not all borders have full time immigration officers, so if you require a visa to enter and there is no officer on duty, you will be turned away.
NOTE: Have an account of your travelling plans available to show the inspector. If you have route maps that's good and be prepared to provide estimates of how long your trip will take. If nothing else the inspector will be interested in your trip and may have route or sight seeing suggestions.
Customs
For any expensive items (especially your bike, but also cameras, lap tops, etc.), complete an Identification of Articles For Temporary Exportation (for Canadians going into the US ) or Certificate of Registration for Personal Effects Taken Abroad - Customs Form 4457 (Americans entering Canada). You can obtain these forms at the border or at your local customs office. Have the form(s) stamped at the border or prior to your trip. The serial number of the item is recorded on the form and proves the origin of the item. Otherwise the item could be dutiable (and in Canada, GST-able). Once completed and stamped, keep these forms, they'll be good for future trips. Non Canadian/US citizens should check with their own country officials for similar documentation.
The form(s) should travel with the item. If your camera is on your bike, keep the form with you. If your lap top is in a support vehicle, the form should be in the support vehicle.
In cases where the support vehicle will be carrying your personal effects you may want to write out a declaration for the driver. This should state which items are yours and that they are for your personal use only. A rendez-vous at the border with your support vehicle may be the best option.
Know what you purchased in the country that you visited. When asked, itemize everything. There is no problem with purchases for your personal use, food, parts etc. Don't joke about what you might or might not have on your bike.
The amount of stuff carried on a bike shouldn't raise any alarms but if the authorities sense a hesitation you may be pulled aside for a thorough search. If this happens, co-operate completely.
Don't carry drugs. If you aren't sure about your prescription medication, get a letter from your MD.
Don't even think of carrying firearms or explosives across the borders.
Got something to add? Write us at: sweep@CycleCanada.com. Happy Cross-Border Biking!
March 11, 2002