Higher Traveller Volumes Expected at the Border This Victoria Day Long Weekend

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - May 18, 2011) - This Victoria Day long weekend, higher travel volumes are expected, and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) would like to advise travellers that this may affect border wait times at some ports of entry.

The CBSA is committed to providing the best possible service, and all ports of entry will be appropriately staffed to meet this expected increase in traffic. Travellers can help by being prepared and knowing what to expect before arriving at the border. The following are some helpful tips to those travelling this weekend:

- All adults and children who are travelling must have proper identification. Keep in mind that all travellers to the United States must present a valid passport or other approved secure document.

- Know your personal exemptions, including those for alcohol and tobacco. Declare all purchases made (including duty-free purchases), and have your receipts readily available upon your return to Canada.

- Souvenirs can be a fun way to remember your trip abroad, but certain goods are prohibited from entering Canada, including some food, plant and animal products. Be aware of what goods are prohibited from entering Canada by consulting the I Declare brochure, available at www.cbsa.gc.ca.

- Declare all money or monetary instruments equal to or over CAN$10,000.

- Prior to arriving in Canada by air, all travellers are provided with a Declaration form (Form E311). Be sure to fill it out accurately and keep it in an accessible place until you have exited the secure area of the airport.

- If a road trip is more your style, try to plan the time and place you return to Canada in advance – avoid crossing during peak travel times and consider using other available ports of entry in the area.

- Border wait times for land borders are available at www.cbsa.gc.ca, or follow us on Twitter for hourly border wait time updates at BWT_CBSA.

- Finally, use your NEXUS card and save time at marine, land and air ports of entry when entering Canada or the United States. Visit www.nexus.gc.ca for more information or to apply for a membership.

Further information on these tips and more can be found on our Web site at www.cbsa.gc.ca/traveltips.

The CBSA strives to provide the best and most efficient service possible while maintaining the security and prosperity of Canada. If travellers have questions about their interactions with border services officers, they are encouraged to speak to a CBSA superintendent, who can address their questions or concerns at that time. Alternatively, travellers can visit the CBSA Web site and fill out an electronic feedback form, where they can voice comments, complaints and compliments.