Here are some tips for Quebecers crossing the border into the U.S.

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If you’re one of the thousands of people crossing the Canada-U.S. border during one of Quebec’s holidays or long weekends, you’re probably in for a wait.

But there are some things you can do to make the process as smooth as possible, according to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Here are some tips if you’re headed over the border in 2024.

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Check border delays: You can do so ahead of time on your way into the U.S. via this website for both land and air travel. CBP advises against travelling during peak times — generally between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. — and suggests opting for a less-crowded border crossing if at all possible. Upon your return to Canada, you can check delays via this website.

Make sure you to have documents in order: Don’t forget any of the documents needed to cross the border. This includes your passport, as well as documents for children travelling with one parent, but not the other. Find information from the U.S. side here and the Canadian side here.

There are also rules surrounding pets, which require proof of rabies vaccination to enter the U.S. or Canada. Rules changed Aug. 1 for dogs being brought into the U.S., making the process more complicated.

Prepare for inspection before arriving at the booth (by land): It’s recommended to have your documents in hand, roll down your windows and remove hats and sunglasses ahead of time.

Use advance declaration (by air): Customs and immigration declarations can be made up to 72 hours in advance of arrival at the Montreal airport, which CBSA said can reduce time at a kiosk by up to 50 per cent.

Be aware of exemption limits: Purchases from the U.S. are subject to personal exemption limits depending on how long you were away from Canada. You can read more about that here and estimate duties and taxes in advance online here.

Don’t bring cannabis across either border: Federally, cannabis remains illegal in the U.S., but CBSA notes it’s also illegal to bring it across the Canadian border — in any form — without a permit or exemption authorized by Health Canada. It’s a “serious criminal offence subject to arrest and prosecution, despite the legalization of cannabis in Canada.” CBSA adds that a prescription from a doctor does not count as authorization from Health Canada.

Be aware of rules surrounding food and plants: There are agricultural restrictions around bringing certain foods and plants into either country. You can learn more about those restrictions at the U.S. border here, and the Canadian border here.

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