Lots of recent PPRs. Congratulations guys!!! POS VO is working.
I landed in Toronto this week. The process was quite smooth. Here is a summary of my landing experience:
Deplaned and walked a bit to Immigration where everything was done (and photo taken) via a self-service machine (indicated I was here for immigration). A print out f the Declaration card was done and then joined a line together with everyone else to see an Immigration Officer. The officer asked what we needed to clear and at the amount of currency bringing. He colour coded the landing slip with a highlighter and we exited the area. Upon exit there was an officer by a desk looking at the landing slips who instructed me to enter a room.
There was no line and an officer came up and directed to me a cubicle. The room is large and has lots of sitting space. Stayed here for about 30 - 45 mins while processing. The officer was quite nice asked a few questions such was what class of immigration, amount of accompanied currency (total) and nationality. He took the COPR page with the photo and signed up the COPR forms; I was also asked to signed the form. After which we exited the room and checked in to get a SIN#. Placed my name on a waiting list (there were 3 cubicles). Waited for 2 minutes and my names was called; provided my passport and copy of COPR and then received a print out of my SIN details.
I then collected my baggage (they were alone but grouped together nicely by someone) and then proceeded to Customs. The officer saw the colour coded slip and directed me to Inspection. This was a huge room with no line. Proceeded to an officer who asked about the currency being brought in, any declaration and unaccompanied items (to follow). A note was then made of the unaccompanied items and I went to the Cashier to collect the official Unaccompanied items list. No checks to the baggage were done, it was a smooth process.
At this point there were no other formalities and I exited the area into the public space.
Notes: I asked a few questions for future entry and I am sure it can help you guys.
Do not worry if the airline tells you they have run out of Declaration cards; you do it electronic after landing unless the system is down
If you bring over CAD10,000 in draft there is no need to declare however, I was advised to still list it. Only cash needs to be declared.
No types of meats (cooked/uncooked are allowed)
If you have items you wish to import after your landing (unaccompanied) you are free to do so; just declare it
The wait times above we pretty good however, I was told the times can be longer depending on the time of day etc
Use the bathroom as you exit the aircraft as the bathroom in some places are outside the room
After getting the SIN# and just before Baggage Claim there are some luggage porters that will volunteer their services (for a cost). There are also free luggage carts for your use so I advise you take advantage of them
I hope this post helps making your landing experience as pleasurable as mine and good luck guys. Will keep you all posted regarding getting my documents/cards. And feel free to ask any questions/PM.
