Even though weed is now legal in Canada, it’s still illegal to bring it into the country.
The Canada Border Services Agency says under the Cannabis Act, the legalization will not change border rules, and exemptions can only be obtained through Health Canada under very limited circumstances.
CBSA says travellers will be asked if they are in possession of pot, similar to what they already ask in relation to other prohibited goods.
In cases where marijuana is declared, CBSA officers will use their own discretion on whether criminal enforcement is appropriate, and take into consideration the circumstances of each case.
However, CBSA is sticking to their slogan, “Don’t bring it in. Don’t take it out”.
Meantime, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is warning its laws won’t be changing.
The agency declined our request for an interview, instead sending a release stating while medical and recreational marijuana may be legal in some States and Canada, U.S. federal law supersedes that.
C-B-P also makes it clear that any person identified as a drug abuser, addict, or has been convicted of a law related to a controlled substance won’t be allowed into the U.S.
Those who work in the cannabis industry will be allowed to cross as long as they are visiting for reasons not related to their work.
