FAQs

Yes, you can exchange money at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Because it is one of Canada’s busiest airports, Vancouver provides convenient currency exchange services to both arriving and leaving passengers. Any trade of foreign currency to Canadian dollars or the other way around, can easily be done in the airport.  When using the airport for currency exchange, there are some aspects to consider, like what rates are given, where you can go and the requirements for identification.

Yes, in most cases, you are required to provide identification when exchanging currency in Canada, particularly for larger transactions. This is due to Canada's stringent anti-money laundering (AML) and anti-terrorist financing (ATF) regulations, enforced by the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC).

Nova Scotia, one of Canada’s Atlantic provinces, is renowned for its rich culinary heritage that blends traditional Acadian, Mi’kmaq, and British influences with the bounty of the sea and fertile farmland. Because Nova Scotia is near the Atlantic Ocean, it is known for great seafood, but its cuisine includes much more. If you come to Nova Scotia, you have to try the lobster rolls and the wild blueberries

Alberta is famous for its foods which are shaped by its farming, diverse cultures and cattle industry. The province of Alberta is famous for its beef farming and production which draws people from all over, as its food scene is very diverse. Here are some of the famous food to eat in Alberta

As of 2025, the longest you can stay in Canada without a visa is typically up to 6 months, but this depends on your country of citizenship and the decision of the border officer at the time of entry.

Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, is a dynamic city known for its rich cultural diversity and welcoming atmosphere. The main language of Winnipeg is English and most people in the city use it when speaking and working. 

Yes. The Canadian border may stamp your passport, but it largely depends on how you enter the country and under what circumstances. Passport stamping in Canada is not mandatory for all travelers and is increasingly being replaced by digital entry records, especially at major points of entry.

Whenever you visit Canada in 2025, you must tell the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) about certain items you are bringing. Its importance lies in its role in continuous border protection, positive health conditions and equitable trading. Leaving out items on your customs form can cause you to suffer severe penalties such as thousands of dollars in fines, the loss of your goods or you could be taken to court. Here's a comprehensive list of what you generally need to declare when entering Canada: 1. Goods You’re Bringing Into the Country You must declare any items you’re bringing into Canada, including: Gifts for friends or family (regardless of their value) Goods for resale or commercial use Any items you plan to leave behind, including promotional materials, samples, or donations If you’re bringing cameras, laptops or other professional equipment and intend to take them out of the country, it helps to have proof (receipts or serial numbers) to show you own them and avoid unexpected charges. 2. Currency or Monetary Instruments Over CAD $10,000 If you're carrying CAD $10,000 or more (or the equivalent in foreign currency), you must declare it. This includes: Cash Cheques Money orders Bank drafts Stocks and bonds Declaring large sums of money is legal and will not result in penalties — unless you fail to declare it. 3. Food, Plants, and Animal Products Canada has strict rules on the importation of: Fresh fruits and vegetables Meat and poultry products Dairy and eggs Seeds, nuts, spices, and grains Live plants, cut flowers, and soil Animal hides, bones, horns, feathers Some items might be allowed if they meet particular conditions or come from particular countries, but they must still be declared. Food items like snacks and packed goods need approval ahead of travel and could be taken by customs if not approved. 4. Alcohol and Tobacco If you are of legal age (18 or 19 depending on the province), you may bring: 1.14 liters (40 oz) of liquor, OR 1.5 liters of wine, OR 8.5 liters of beer or ale Tobacco allowances include: 200 cigarettes 50 cigars 200g of manufactured tobacco 200 tobacco sticks These amounts are duty-free, but must be declared regardless of quantity. 5. Prescription Drugs and Medical Devices You may bring prescription medications for personal use, but they must be: In original packaging with a proper label Accompanied by a doctor’s note if possible Limited to a 90-day supply or less (in most cases) Some medications legal in your country may be prohibited or restricted in Canada, especially controlled substances. 6. Firearms, Weapons, and Restricted Items Weapons are legally controlled very closely in Canada. Tell the security team about any firearms, pepper spray, knives or defensive items in your baggage. It is generally safe not to carry such things with you when you are a tourist. how to declare items at customs Canada: Customs Declaration Card (E311): If you enter Canada by air, you may need to fill out a paper Customs Declaration Card (E311) before seeing a CBSA officer or you may use an automated Primary Inspection Kiosk. You are allowed to add up to four people who live at the same address on one card. Primary Inspection Kiosks (PIK): When traveling though a major Canadian airport, you should use a PIK to scan your passport, take a picture and complete an on-screen form before seeing the CBSA officer. ArriveCAN (Optional Advance Declaration): For people arriving in Canada in 2025, the ArriveCAN app is not required but is highly suggested. You will be able to complete your customs and immigration form 72 hours early, if you are flying into Canada from airports that support the CBSA Declaration system. That can greatly shorten the time you spend going through the border. Verbal Declaration:  When you arrive at the border crossing by car, bus, train or private boat, you will generally tell a Border Services Officer your purpose at the first checkpoint. Always remember: When in doubt, declare it. If you declare an item and the officer says it’s allowed, that’s much better than not declaring it and facing big penalties. Border Services Officers are available to explain and help with anything that is unclear. If you are traveling to Canada, declare all food, money, alcohol, tobacco, medications and goods for others or use at the Canadian border. Truthful and organized conduct guarantees an unproblematic and valid way into the country.

If you are denied entry to Canada at the airport, the situation can be serious and stressful. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has the authority to refuse any traveler entry, even if they hold a valid visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Below is a detailed explanation of what happens and what you can expect:

Yes, customs checkpoints are required for travelers to Canada, no matter if they are coming to Canada for tourism, business, study or immigration. The CBSA takes care of this process by making sure that Canada’s border laws, immigration policies and customs regulations are followed.