Canadian customs question?

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lemonwater

lemonwater

Member
Jan 21, 2022
7
21
#1
For my 30th, I'm going to London, then Paris via train where I want to get a Caro and card case (and VAT refund of course at the station,) before heading back to London then Toronto a few days later.

My question being I know these 2 purchases are going to push me over the 800$ limit I am allowed (I'll be in Europe for around 2.5 weeks.) Does anyone know how much do they usually charge in customs and to be honest can I get away with not declaring or do they already know with how connected everything is (or is there a certain limit then they are notified?) I don't really care much for paying taxes on top of my purchase (please no moralizing on this.)
 
#2
The minute your passport is used for your vat refund, you are already flagged upon re-entry. By not declaring, you risk not only financial penalty but the seizure of said goods. Plus you will have future problems when travelling. I do not think it is is worth it. Be honest and declare. The duties owed are minimal and worth it. The amount they charge depends on the category. Go to the website for Canadian customs and you can do an estimate. Sometimes if they are nice they might just wave you through.

Estimate duty and taxes

Canada Border Services Agency Duty and Taxes Estimator
www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
 
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#3
Definitely declare, especially if you are in a program like Global Entry (or ever want to be). You may not be charged any duty... I've actually never been asked to pay, and always declared.
 
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