Published: Sunday, November 8, 2009
2010 Olympics: Crossing the border
BLAINE — Typically, February is a quiet month at the border between the United States and Canada.
Not next year, though.
Officials on both sides of the 49th parallel are preparing for the 2010 Olympics in British Columbia. The crowds heading to the games could meet or exceed traffic levels during the border’s busiest summer days.
“Our best advice is to build extra time into your schedule,” said Faith St. John, a spokeswoman for border services in Canada.
Border officials in both countries said all lanes will be open during peak travel times. Still, drivers could face wait times of about an hour.
Regularly updated border wait times will be posted online at apps.cbp.gov/bwt.
Along with increased travel times, U.S. residents should recall new documentation requirements for returning home.
As of June 1, travelers crossing into the U.S. have been required to hold a passport or the equivalent of a passport, such as an enhanced driver’s license. Failing to hold the right documentation can delay a return. Drivers can learn about passport applications and requirements at travel.state.gov/passport.
U.S. citizens should also remember that Canadian laws are different.
Travelers should be prepared to discuss their entire criminal record when entering Canada. Some offenses, such as driving while intoxicated, are not misdemeanors in Canada and can make a person inadmissible to the country.
Travelers with firearms should also declare those when crossing into Canada. Undeclared firearms can result in criminal prosecution, along with the seizure of both the traveler’s firearms and vehicle.
Andy Rathbun: 425-339-3455, arathbun@heraldnet.com
Not next year, though.
Officials on both sides of the 49th parallel are preparing for the 2010 Olympics in British Columbia. The crowds heading to the games could meet or exceed traffic levels during the border’s busiest summer days.
“Our best advice is to build extra time into your schedule,” said Faith St. John, a spokeswoman for border services in Canada.
Border officials in both countries said all lanes will be open during peak travel times. Still, drivers could face wait times of about an hour.
Regularly updated border wait times will be posted online at apps.cbp.gov/bwt.
Along with increased travel times, U.S. residents should recall new documentation requirements for returning home.
As of June 1, travelers crossing into the U.S. have been required to hold a passport or the equivalent of a passport, such as an enhanced driver’s license. Failing to hold the right documentation can delay a return. Drivers can learn about passport applications and requirements at travel.state.gov/passport.
U.S. citizens should also remember that Canadian laws are different.
Travelers should be prepared to discuss their entire criminal record when entering Canada. Some offenses, such as driving while intoxicated, are not misdemeanors in Canada and can make a person inadmissible to the country.
Travelers with firearms should also declare those when crossing into Canada. Undeclared firearms can result in criminal prosecution, along with the seizure of both the traveler’s firearms and vehicle.
Andy Rathbun: 425-339-3455, arathbun@heraldnet.com
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