American travelers to VICTORIA .....

Canadian Currency and Banking

• Canadian currency is in dollars and cents, like U.S. money. The Canadian one dollar and two dollar denominations are coins, while all other dollar denominations are paper currency.


• U.S. currency is accepted at most establishments, exchange rates vary and change is given in Canadian funds.


• Major credit cards are accepted at most locations and exchange rates are calculated automatically.


• Traveller's chequse are the safest and most convenient way to carry money.


• Cash machines with 24hr networks are available at many convenient locations, and many shops and restaurants carry Interac.


• Banks are generally open from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Customs and Immigration

• U.S. citizens and residents should carry a birth or baptismal certificate and at least one photo ID card or a passport. A current U.S. driver's license is NOT accepted as proof of citizenship, and may prevent entry into Canada. Naturalized certificates or green cards are accepted for naturalized citizens.


• Visitors from countries other than the U.S. must have a valid passport and may require other identification, such as a visa or alien card permitting entry.


• Persons over the age of 19 may bring into Canada up to 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes, and 200 grams (7oz.) of tobacco. Persons aged 19 and over may bring into Canada 1.14 litres (40oz.) of liquor, 1.5 litres (45oz.) of wine, or 8.5 litres (288 oz.) of beer or ale.


• All firearms and weapons must be declared. Revolvers, automatic fireamrms and any other weapons including self defence sprays are prohibited entry into Canada.

For more information contact:
Revenue Canada Customs and Excise
The Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (CCRA) provides a full range of services at Canada's international borders. Customs officers process travellers and commercial goods. They also monitor and control the importation of firearms, drugs, and other goods.
Canada Customs Web site
Tel:250.363.3531

Special "FUN" Notice for International Visitors:

1. Please do not bring you firearms into Canada. The law prohibits entry into Victoria (Canada). If you are at a border crossing (this includes Custom checks at all international ferry docks) and you have a firearm, please declare it.


2. Know Canadian holidays. Check out the Canadian holiday guide. Pay special attention to Thanksgiving, it is a different month and day than in the U.S. In Victoria, many shops, banks, public offices are closed for Thanksgiving. Also affects ferry schedule!


3. The money is different. Here are some helpful tips to help you enjoy your stay. Most establishments will take American money. Most will also give you an exchange rate. ALL BUSINESSES WILL GIVE YOU CANADIAN CHANGE...why??..because it is the law!


4. Alcohol - Victoria is not Vegas. You cannot have a boozey drink before 10:30am. Don't walk down the street with your booze...it's against the law. DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE any kind of motor vehicle. This includes riding your bike.


5. Clubs stay open until 2:00am - last call for alcohol is at 1:45am.


6. Island - yes, that's right. Victoria is located on an island, located with water on all sides and no bridge. You must get here by ferry for passengers and cars (trucks and motorhomes etc.), plane or helicopter.


7. Most people that work here live here.


8. Want to live in Victoria - here's a guide to the real estate market


9. Crime in Victoria. Be safe like you would anywhere. Lock your doors and don't be vulnerable. Call 911 in case of an emergency. Did you buy your travel insurance?


10. Respect the land. Be careful with the beauty of Victoria. Nature and wildlife are to be protected, not abused.


11. Have fun in little ol' Victoria. Remember it is a "small town" with locals who are usually happy to help you find your way!.