Can I take my car when I move to Canada?

Bringing Your Car to Canada: A Seamless Move

Moving to a new country can be a daunting experience, but transporting your personal belongings shouldn’t add to the stress. In Canada, you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that bringing your car is a straightforward process.

Personal Vehicles as Household Effects

According to the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA), personal vehicles are considered household effects. This means that they are exempt from import duties and taxes, making the transition to your new home much easier.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this exemption, you must meet the following criteria:

• You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• The vehicle must be registered in your name and used for personal use.
• You must have owned the vehicle for at least one year before moving to Canada.

Documentation Required

When crossing the border with your vehicle, you will need to present the following documentation:

• Proof of ownership (e.g., vehicle registration)
• Proof of residency in Canada (e.g., passport, landing document)
• Evidence that you have owned the vehicle for at least one year (e.g., insurance policy)

Steps Involved

1. Prepare your vehicle: Ensure it is in good working condition and meets Canadian safety standards.
2. Gather documentation: Collect the necessary documents listed above.
3. Contact CBSA: Inform them of your intention to import your vehicle and provide them with your documentation.
4. Pay the applicable fees: There may be minor fees associated with the process, such as inspection or registration fees.
5. Receive clearance: Once your vehicle has been inspected and cleared, you will be issued an Import Control Document (ICD).

Additional Considerations

• Vehicle Modifications: Any modifications made to your vehicle must comply with Canadian safety regulations.
• Emissions Standards: Your vehicle may need to pass an emissions test to ensure it meets Canadian standards.
• Insurance: You will need to obtain Canadian insurance for your vehicle before driving it in the country.

By following these steps and preparing the necessary documentation, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free process of bringing your car to Canada.