Newcomer’s Custom Checklist: Forms B4 and B4A Before Moving to Canada

If Canada is going to be your new home, and you are planning to carry or ship valuable belongings here, then you must duly fill the Forms BSF186 and BSF186A. These forms are well known as Form B4 and B4A, respectively. It ensures smooth passage of your and your goods on arrival at the Canadian Customs border. 

Let's find out what is Form B4 and B4A, what to include in the forms, the submission process, and its duration. 

Understanding Forms B4 and B4A

Form B4 

Form B4 is used to declare personal belongings when moving to Canada. It’s essential for newcomers to accurately document their personal effects to avoid complications at customs. This form helps Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) officials understand what items you’re bringing into the country and ensures that you don’t face unexpected duties or taxes.

Form B4A

Form B4A is an inventory checklist that complements Form B4. It’s used to provide a detailed list of the personal effects you’re bringing with you. This form helps CBSA verify your belongings and ensures that you’re not bringing in items that are restricted or prohibited.

These forms are a must for anybody traveling to Canada— People on Permanent Resident (PR) Visas, Student Visas, Visitors Visas, Tourist Visas; anybody who is willing to bring any personal belongings to use during their stay in Canada.

The Submission Process of Form B4 and B4A

Submitting Forms B4 and B4A is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure a smooth customs experience when moving to Canada. Here’s how to properly submit these forms:

1. Prepare the Forms in Advance

• Complete the Forms Before Your Arrival: Ideally, you should fill out both Form B4 and Form B4A before arriving in Canada. This allows you to have everything ready when you reach the Canadian border.
  
• Print Multiple Copies: After completing the forms, print out at least two copies of each. One copy will be submitted to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), and it’s wise to keep an additional copy for your records.

2. Submit the Forms at the Canadian Border

• Present the Forms to a CBSA Officer: Upon your arrival in Canada, whether by land, sea, or air, you’ll need to present Forms B4 and B4A to a CBSA officer at the point of entry. This is typically done during your first interaction with the customs officials after you arrive.
  
• Provide Additional Documentation: Along with Forms B4 and B4A, you should also have your passport, visa or confirmation of permanent residence, and any other relevant immigration documents ready to present.
  
• Answer Questions If Asked: The CBSA officer may ask questions about the goods you are importing or may request further details. Be prepared to clarify any information or provide additional documentation if needed.

3. Collect Stamped Copies

• Obtain a Stamped Copy: After reviewing your forms and documentation, the CBSA officer will stamp the forms, indicating that your goods have been declared. One stamped copy will be returned to you, which you should keep as proof of your declaration.
  
• Use the Stamped Copy for Goods to Follow: If you have goods arriving later (listed on Form B4A), you will need the stamped copy when those items enter Canada. The CBSA will use this copy to verify that the goods have been previously declared.

4. Shipping Goods Later

• Present Stamped Form for Future Shipments: When your goods arrive separately, either by air freight, sea, or another method, the shipping company will present the stamped Form B4A to CBSA. This ensures your goods are processed correctly and duty-free, as previously declared.

5. Keep Copies for Your Records

• Retain Copies for Future Reference: It’s crucial to keep the stamped copies of Forms B4 and B4A for future reference. They may be required if there are any questions or issues regarding your goods, or if you need to provide proof of your declaration.

Note the grey sections are for official use.

By following these steps, you ensure that your personal belongings can be brought into Canada without unnecessary delays or additional costs. 

The Processing Wait Time

The processing time for Forms B4 and B4A is typically immediate when submitted at the Canadian border. Here’s what you can expect:

1. At the Border

• Immediate Processing: When you present Forms B4 and B4A to a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer upon your arrival, the forms are usually processed on the spot. The officer will review your documentation, ask any necessary questions, and stamp the forms to indicate that your goods have been declared.
• Duration: The entire process generally takes just a few minutes, depending on the completeness of your forms and the complexity of the goods you are declaring. If your forms are filled out correctly and there are no issues, the process is quick.

2. For Goods to Follow

• Verification at Entry: If you have goods arriving later, the verification process for these items, when they enter Canada, also tends to be immediate, as long as the necessary documentation (including the stamped Form B4A) is presented. The CBSA will check the paperwork, ensure everything matches, and release your goods.

3. Potential Delays

• Incomplete or Inaccurate Forms: If there are discrepancies or missing information on the forms, it could take longer as the CBSA may need to clarify details or ask for additional documentation.
• High Volume Times: During peak travel periods, processing might be slightly delayed due to higher volumes of travelers and goods being processed at the border. However, such delays are usually minimal.

Overall, the processing time for Forms B4 and B4A is very efficient, particularly if you arrive prepared with completed forms and all necessary documentation.

Goods That Can Be Imported Duty and Tax-Free to Canada

CATEGORY	GOODS	DUTY AND TAX-FREE?	EXCEPTIONS (VALUE LIMITS)
Personal Effects	Clothing, footwear, accessories	Yes	No value limit if used and owned before arrival
Household Items	Furniture, appliances, kitchenware	Yes	No value limit if used and owned before arrival
Books	Personal library	Yes	No value limit
Electronics	Computers, TVs, phones	Yes	No value limit if used and owned before arrival
Tools of Trade	Professional tools and equipment	Yes	No value limit if used and owned before arrival
Sporting Goods	Bicycles, camping gear, sports equipment	Yes	No value limit if used and owned before arrival
Vehicles	Cars, motorcycles	No	Subject to duties and taxes; requires specific documentation
Gifts	Items intended as gifts	Yes	Limited to a total value of $60 CAD per gift item
Alcohol	Wine, spirits, beer	No	Limits on quantity; duties and taxes apply
Tobacco	Cigarettes, cigars	No	Limits on quantity; duties and taxes apply
Food Products	Non-perishable items	No	Subject to restrictions and inspection
Firearms	Guns, ammunition	No	Requires special permits and is subject to duties

This chart provides a general overview. Specific cases may require additional permits, and documentation, or be subject to inspection. Here’s a link to check with Canadian Official Norms for the most up-to-date and detailed regulations.

Wrapping Up

In the grand adventure of moving to Canada, Forms B4 and B4A play a pivotal role. They act as the bridge between your past life and your new beginnings in Canada, ensuring that your cherished belongings make the journey with you without unnecessary hurdles.

Completing these forms with precision and care sets the stage for a smooth and successful transition, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—starting your new life in Canada. Whether you are moving across the world or just across the border, let Forms B4 and B4A be your guides to a seamless and stress-free relocation.

Read More: Why Forms B4 and B4A Are Essential While Moving to Canada?