Moving From Canada To U.S.

What documents are required for moving from Canada to US?

	You need a proof of US Citizenship or Visa or Valid Work Permit.
	Everyone moving from Canada must have a Passport, a Birth Certificate, and a Social Security Number.
	If you have a car:
	•	Drivers License
	•	Letter of clearance from car manufacturer
	•	Copies of car’s bill of sale
	•	Registration and invoice of shipment
	You must have permits for any special imports.

Are we allowed to bring money, prescription medicine, animals, plants, tobacco, and alcohol?

Well, you are allowed to bring them, but consider the following factors for each item.

	Money:	If you want to transport more than $10,000 in U.S dollars(or equivalent foreign coins or currency in any form) or receive $10,000 or more while in the U.S. you must notify,and file Form 4720 with the U.S. Customs Service. The currency regulation includes traveller’s cheques, money orders, and negotiable or investment securities.
	Medicine:	You are allowed to import up to 3 months supply of prescription drugs for your personal use. Carry all your prescription drugs with you as you are moving from Canada to U.S. This will speed up clearing Customs and avoid costly and inconvenient delays while the composition of your prescription drug is verified.It is better to keep medication, prescribing doctor’s information,dosage,and directions for use with you.In some cases, it may be helpful to obtain a letter from your doctor explaining the medications prescribed. This is especially important for individuals who administer their medication by hypodermic injection. Even if some drugs are used in other countries, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration restricts certain dangerous or fraudulent drugs from being imported. It is better to contact U.S. Customs in advance if you have concerns about your prescription meeting their guidelines.
	Animals:	All dogs and cats are examined at the port of entry to make sure they are free of disease. If your pet is diagnosed with a disease or illness, it will be quarantined and treated at your expense. Dogs must be vaccinated at least 30 days before entering the U.S. You will need to show a valid rabies vaccination certificate, signed by a licensed veterinarian that identifies your dog by breed, age, sex, colouring and any distinguishing marks. The certificate should also provide the inoculation and expiration dates for the vaccination. All birds brought into the U.S. require a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian confirming they were examined and must be free of disease within the last 30 days. Although your bird may have a health certificate, it is not unusual for a bird to be quarantined for at least 30 days after entry. (If your bird has to be quarantined, payment for space in a quarantine facility must be made in advance)
	Plants:	Be prepared to present all plants, plant products, fruits and vegetables to a Customs officer for inspection before entering the U.S. There are numerous restrictions on importing endangered plants, such as certain cycads, orchids, and cacti. Some states restrict the entry of plants.
	Alcohol:	The U.S. government allows you to import one litre of alcoholic beverages duty and tax free, but you must be at least 21 years old. Each state has their own laws, so it depends on what city you are going to move to. Many states require a permit or receipt to import alcoholic beverages. This process can take up to 60 days and can delay your entire shipment if it’s not completed before arrival at the port of entry. If you plan to import wine or alcohol, be sure to contact your state’s alcohol control board for information on local regulations and permits.
	Tobacco:	U.S. Customs limits the number of cigarettes that can enter the country from Canada to 200 and the number of cigars to 50. In general, cigarettes manufactured in Canada can enter the U.S. duty-free, but are subject to an IRS tax based on the number imported. Although Cuban cigars are available for purchase in Canada, they are not allowed entry into the U.S.

Prohibited Items

The following items are considered to be as prohibited items in the U.S.

	Flammable items, compressed gases, combustible liquids, explosives and corrosive liquids are prohibited from being shipped with household goods.
	In general, you are prohibited from importing any items made from endangered species. This includes most products made from crocodile skins; lizards products from Brazil, Paraguay and some Asian countries; most snakeskin products from Latin America and Asia; and all turtle products including tortoiseshell combs, jewellery and leather, as well as creams and cosmetics made from turtle oil. Persian rugs, not purchased in the U.S., could be seized at the port of entry.
	Absinthe, liquor-filled candy, lottery tickets, and obscene articles and publications are also prohibited.

Although many of these items may be sold in their country of origin or other countries, they are still prohibited entry into the U.S.

NOTE: U.S. government penalties for bringing restricted and prohibited materials into the country can be severe.