Border Crossing

American visitors crossing the border, either way, may be asked to verify their citizenship with such documents as a passport, or a birth certificate. Permanent U.S. residents should carry a naturalization certificate.

Permanent U.S. residents who are not citizens are advised to bring their Alien Registration Receipt Card. Citizens of all other countries must have a valid passport and may also require a visitor's visa.

Travelers under the age of 18 and unaccompanied by a parent need a letter of permission to travel in Canada from a parent or guardian.

If you have any questions regarding entry to Canada contact; Canada Immigration Division, Canada Employment and Immigration Centre, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0J9.

Currency, Credit & Debit Cards

We recommend that visitors use Canadian funds. A good rate of exchange is available at all banks and trust companies in Rainbow Country.

Banks are generally open 10 am to 4 pm Monday to Thursday; to 6 pm Friday. Most trust companies are open 9 am to 6 pm weekdays and Saturday mornings.

Most major credit cards are welcome in Canada, including American Express, Master Card and Visa. Interact cards (Direct Access/Debit) are available in Rainbow Country at numerous retail establishments, banks, gas stations, lodges and resorts.

Customs

U.S. residents returning to the United States after 48 hours can take back $400 U.S. worth of merchandise, duty free, every six months. This may include one litre of alcohol (35 ounces), 200 cigarettes or 100 cigars that are not of Cuban origin. After a visit of 72 hours or more, if the $400 exemption has already been claimed in the six months previous, an exemption of $100 is allowed.

For further information on re-entering the United States, please contact U.S. Customs. As a non-resident of Canada visiting Ontario, you're allowed to bring in a reasonable amount of personal effects, a reasonable supply of food and a full tank of gas.

Liquor & the Law

Anyone 19 or over may buy liquor, imported or domestic wine and beer from government run or licensed stores. A large selection of domestic beer is available at Beer Stores. Liquor, wine and some beer is available at LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario) stores throughout Rainbow Country.

Drinking hours in licensed establishments are from 11 am to 2 am.

In Ontario it is an offense to consume alcohol anywhere other than a residence or on licensed premises. A tent, trailer or camper is considered a residence. Drinking on public beaches, parks, etc. Is prohibited.

Driving motorized vehicles, including snowmobiles, while impaired is illegal. You may be convicted for refusing to take a breathalyzer test or having a breathalyzer reading greater than 80 mg (0.08 %) of alcohol per 100 ml of blood. Please don't drink and drive!

Snowmobile Border Entry

U.S. visitors bringing their snowmobiles to Canada require a valid driver's license and proof of insurance for their snowmobile. Before entering Canada you should obtain a declaration form at U.S. Customs to declare the origin and value of your snowmobile for a smooth return back to the United States.

Speed Limits

Speed limits in Ontario are in kilometres per hour (km/h). Freeways have a speed limit of 100 km/h (62 mph); the Trans-Canada routes 90 km/h (56 mph). Most rural highways and country roads have a speed limit of 80 km/h (50 mph). In populated urban areas the speed limits range from 40 to 60 km/h (25 to 37 mph).

Taxes & Sales Tax Refunds

Eight percent Provincial tax applies to most purchases. Seven percent Federal goods and services tax (GST) applies to most purchases of goods and services.

Visitors from outside Canada may claim a refund of the 7 % federal GST on accumulated purchases of a minimum $100, provided the goods are taken out of Canada within 60 days. Tax charged on hotel and motel accommodation is eligible for refund.

Rebate forms are available at information centres, lodges and resorts. Rebates may be issued by taking the completed form to a participating Duty Free Shop for cash rebate or by mailing the form to Revenue Canada, Visitors Rebate Program, Summerside Tax Centre, Summerside, P.E.I., Canada C1N 6C6 or call toll free from anywhere in Canada 1-800-668-4748. From outside Canada call (902)432-5608.