US Customs

Please take note that Canada and US Customs are in the process of revising their requirements for entry into Canada and the USA respectively. The following information is presented as a public service and no representations are made, expressed or implied, as to the completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or suitability as a guide for entry into either country.

Excellent sources of information are:
U.S. Customs
Decal Program
Entering Canada go to Pat's Boating In Canada  Entering USA go to  Pat's Boating in Canada
US Coast Guard
The Canadian Coast Guard
CanPass Information
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
Canada USA Border Tips (PDF File)
Cruising and Boating in Canada and Cross Border
US Customs and Border Protection
Bellhaven
Foreign Affairs Canada


All boats entering the United States from Canada must report to U.S. Customs either by calling a toll free number:1-800-827-2851 before leaving Canada or while en route.

Upon your arrival in the U.S. it is still necessary to call one of the locals marinas. Also, all boats arriving from Canada must have a valid immigration I-68 form otherwise the Immigration and Naturalization Service requires may ask you to report to one of the local marinas for inspection.

During your phone conversation with customs the following information may be required:

• your estimated time of arrival at the border

• your boat registration number

• name, citizenship and date of birth for all persons on board ( US Customs will ask for a picture I.D.) Passport preferred.

• your destination

• length of stay in the USA

• will you be leaving anything that is onboard, in the USA

• are you bringing anything in that you plan to leave in the country.

Be prepared to show a copy your clearance control number. In the event your boat is boarded by an inspection unit, this number will indicate that you have met your Customs reporting requirements.