How much money do you need to have for crossing the border?

[epmarshall]

Hi all,

I am a US citizen and want to visit my boyfriend for a week in Canada.

However, I don't have much money in my bank account at the moment. How much of a problem will this be for me?

1. Should I even bring a bank statement at all if the balance is small? Or should I just only mention it if they ask?

2. My boyfriend has a big savings account and is going to write me a letter stating that he will cover the cost of the visit and any expenses that may arise. Will this be enough and should he include a pic of his account as proof?

Thanks. I'd appreciate any advice!

 

[keesio]

I doubt CBSA will even ask for any proof at all. Just tell them you will be visiting your boyfriend. Having a letter from him saying he will support you during your visit is good for backup I suppose. Honestly, CBSA will be more concerned about when you are leaving Canada so be sure to have clear answers for that. If you have any proof of your planned departure (flight itinerary, bus ticket, etc) then that will be good.

 

[Aquakitty]

I doubt CBSA will even ask for any proof at all. Just tell them you will be visiting your boyfriend. Having a letter from him saying he will support you during your visit is good for backup I suppose. Honestly, CBSA will be more concerned about when you are leaving Canada so be sure to have clear answers for that. If you have any proof of your planned departure (flight itinerary, bus ticket, etc) then that will be good.

It's possible, if s/he is young and/or does something silly like not having a return ticket. OP if you take a bus or plane, make sure you can show your return info and they likely won't question you. If you are driving they are usually more lenient as long as you aren't crossing with 5 suitcases for a week long trip, for example.

Carrying that information with you though is a good backup plan, just in case, and won't hurt anything.

 

[Ontariobat]

If it's a week that's okay, you shouldn't have any problems. If it's a month-6 months, you'd likely be held for questioning and they'll want bank statements and evidence that you will return (much better to apply for a visa for longer visits ).

 

[epmarshall]

Thanks to all responses!

I do have a return trip ticket and will be bringing as much backup as I can anyway, since I have been stopped before and often get picked out for anxiety problems.

I just wanted to see if the letter was reasonable and it seems like it is so thanks.