“What Do I Need To Know To Cross The Border?”

By Car

Crossing the border at Champlain/Lacolle for many people is as natural as crossing the street. But with heightened security concerns, it is more important than ever to know the requirements and arrive at the border fully prepared. We suggest that you keep in mind these TOP 10 DO’S AND DON’T S:

• HAVE PROOF OF CITIZENSHIP READILY AVAILABLE INCLUDING 2 FORMS OF IDENTIFICATION WITH AT LEAST ONE PHOTO ID.
• HAVE BIRTH CERTIFICATES FOR EACH CHILD IN YOUR VEHICLE. If one parent is with one or more of their children, you should have a letter signed by the other parent indicating their permission for the child to be taken out of the country.
• IF TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN WHO ARE NOT A PART OF YOUR IMMEDIATE FAMILY, HAVE A NOTE OR PROOF THAT THE CHILD HAS PERMISSION TO CROSS THE BORDER WITH YOU.
• TURN OFF RADIOS AND CAR PHONES WHEN TALKING TO BORDER AGENTS.
• DECLARE ALL FRUITS, VEGETABLES, PLANTS AND PLANT PRODUCTS, ANIMALS, BIRDS, EGGS, MEAT AND MEAT PRODUCTS. While it may seem innocent to have some fruit with you for personal consumption, it is probably best not to bring it with you.
• DECLARE ALL ITEMS ACQUIRED FOR PERSONAL USE OR AS GIFTS.
• RESIDENT ALIENS MUST CARRY RESIDENCY CARDS AND DOCUMENTATION AT ALL TIMES.
• DON’T FOOL AROUND. CUSTOMS AND IMMIGRATION AGENTS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE BORDER ARE LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS WHO MUST TAKE THEIR DUTIES VERY SERIOUSLY. APPROACH INSPECTION BOOTHS SLOWLY AND FOLLOW ALL SIGNAGE AND SIGNALS
• DON’T DRIVE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL
• BE PATIENT. Have your documentation ready and lower your windows so the agent can see everyone in the vehicle. Be prepared to open your trunk, if asked.