❄️ Canada Strong, Wherever You Go

Heading south doesn’t mean leaving your Canadian spirit behind.

Bring that purpose, pride, and preparedness with you - this checklist is here to guide you
before, during, and after your stay in the U.S.

  • Travel Documents & Visas
    • 📌 Valid passport (6+ months past return date)
    • 📌 NEXUS card (if applicable)
    • 📌 B2 visitor visa or ESTA waiver (if eligible)
    • 📌 Bring past travel records (helpful at the border)
  • Insurance
    • 🩺 Emergency medical insurance (review exclusions)
    • 🛑 Travel cancellation/interruption coverage (optional)
  • Finances
    • 💳 Notify banks/credit cards of travel
    • 💻 Set up online bill pay and auto-payments
    • 💵 Prepare U.S. funds or use cross-border account
  • Healthcare
    • 💊 Refill prescriptions, bring in labeled containers
    • 📋 Carry medical summary & emergency contacts
    • 🩺 Ensure provincial health plan covers your absence
  • Home & Security
    • 🏡 Arrange house sitter or property check-ins
    • 📦 Pause/forward mail and suspend services
    • 🔒 Set up timers and ensure home insurance complies
    • 🌐 Review latest travel advisories at travel.gc.ca

  • Housing
    • 🧰 Inspect rental/unit and utilities
    • 📞 Know lease terms and emergency numbers
  • Legal & Tax Considerations
    • 📅 Track days in the U.S. (Substantial Presence Test)
    • 🧾 Understand U.S. tax triggers for Canadian pensions/income
    • 📝 If staying for more than 30 days, follow USCIS Alien Registration guidance to register your stay
    • 🚫 Do not work or volunteer without proper authorization
  • Healthcare & Safety

  • End-of-Season Prep
    • 📴 Turn off utilities, unplug devices
    • 🔐 Lock up and secure the property
    • 📝 Leave maintenance plan with caretaker
  • Border Declarations
    • 🧾 Know duty-free limits for alcohol, gifts, and goods
    • 📂 Keep receipts and be ready to declare honestly
  • Documents
    • 📋 Bring updated travel/tax documents
    • 📆 Record your stay for CRA and immigration
📄 Download Checklist as PDF

Note: This checklist is a general guide and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always verify with your province, the CRA, or a cross-border advisor.