How long does it take to go through customs between Canada and the US?

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Sawbuck

If you're a citizen of one of the two countries, they usually take more time with you on the way home.

If you're not a citizen, expect a longer process, because both countries are concerned about trying to stop illegal immigration. A citizen of some other area of the world may get more time-consuming examinations both ways, unless they have all the documents to prove that they are "just passing through".

Flying from Canada to the USA (but not the other way) you will clear customs in many major Canadian airports before you get on your flight to the USA. This too may take a while to wait in line, but usually an airline worker will help you to bypass the line if the waiting time for your flight becomes too short!

exj132

For information on crossing through Customs by a land border visit http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/general/times/menu-e.html

JuanB

The wait in line is usually longer than the processing. Generally Customs spends about 2 minutes with you. But the wait is generally 5 minutes to 45 minutes long, maybe longer. It is longer Fridays after work, Sundays and long weekends, Summer, etc. Best to pay attention and try go in the off time. If it is slower, customs themselves might spend more time talking to you, but it is still faster.

If at an airport it is similar. Generally a 10 to 15 minute wait and depends on how many flights there are and how many passengers they hold.

Marie

It depends where you cross. Generally, crossing on more rural, 2 lane roads is much quicker (with less hassle) than
crossing on major routes.

Dziner

depends on what you have in your car

and if the dogs can smell it

burrito

It depends where you're going through the border. Which province? Which city?

Depends on the day, (weekend/day) time of day, holiday weekend or not, the border guard as well.

Anywhere from 15min up to 2-3hrs.

354gr

When driving it's usually pretty quick. Unless you purchase quite a lot. They also do random searches from what I've heard.

Pichi

Anywhere from minutes to hours, depends on time of day, season, which border stop, and individual circumstances.

If you go through a major border stop, before a weekend or holiday, in the summer, expect to wait in line 1-3 hours, and then the actual going through about 5-10 minutes, unless there are special circumstances requiring closer scrutiny.

Generally speaking, I expect wait times in line to be around 20-30 minutes, and 5 minutes for being checked.

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David B

if american or canadian its very quick usually.

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