Expert: James Yee - 1/19/2012

Question
QUESTION: Hi James.Hope all is well with you. I'm aware of the fact that when returning to Canada from Cuba,that I'm allowed to bring back 50 cigars.My question is,when leaving Cuba and going through customs at the airport in Cuba when leaving,if I have more than 50 cigars on me will they hassle me or possibly confiscate any amount I have above or beyond 50 sticks?If so,would having a few boxes already opened with some already gone make any difference or help me out? Ive had others tell me that they've packed theirs in their suitcase,but I wonder what the odds of getting back to Canada and finding the cigars no longer there would be? Any of your past experience with such a matter would be greatly appreciated.Thanks James,and have a wonderful day.Your past advice has always been very helpful and insightful.Take care.

ANSWER: Hi Bill,

According to Canada Border Services Agency, if you bring in more than your personal allowance (50 cigars), you will have to pay regular assessments on the excess cigars. These regular assessments can include duties, taxes and provincial or territorial fees.  If you choose not to pay these additional fees or cannot afford to pay them, the excess cigars will be confiscated.

If you bring in more than 50 cigars, it's also important that you have ALL the official store receipts for these additional cigars.  Having the store receipts will definitely make things easier for both you and customs.

If you have boxes that are opened and not full, let the customs officer know so that he does not count the box as being full.  If you are bringing back an assortment of single cigars, be sure that the customs officer counts them correctly.

If you falsely declare the amount of cigars you have or don't declare them at all, border services will seize all your cigars permanently (this applies to alcohol products as well).  Your name will also be recorded and you may be flagged for investigation on future trips.

For more details see : http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/pub/bsf5056-eng.html#P021

I hope this helps.  If you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I will be happy to help.

Regards,
James

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the response James.I'm aware of the info you sent my way,however what I really wanted to know was whether the custom people at the airport in Cuba would stop me from leaving with more than 50 cigars or not.If I attempt to leave Cuba with more than 50 cigars for myself,will they or can they give me a hassle if per say I had 75 cigars on me as apposed to 50?Thanks James.

Answer
Hi Bill,

Sorry about that, I was in a rush and misunderstand your question.  To answer your question, no, you shouldn't have any problems.  I've never had any problems like this occur to me and my colleagues also have not had any problems leaving Cuba with more than 50 cigars each.

Regards,
James