Crossing the Border

Passports

Anyone coming into Canada from another country (whether by land, sea, or air) is required to carry the appropriate identity documents. In most contexts, this means a passport. This applies whether you are a Canadian living abroad or an international visitor.

Customs

Please check with your airline or national transportation authority ahead of time to ensure you have everything you need to come into Canada. For more information on entering the country, see this page on Entering Canada, provided by the Government of Canada.

If you are flying, you will need the full address of the place you will be staying. The hotel address can be found at the top of the Hotel page. We suggest printing it out and putting it with your passport.

If you are asked about the purpose of your visit when going through customs, you can say something like, “I’m going to a little science fiction music convention in the Toronto area to hang out with a bunch of friends.” This is straightforward, truthful, and puts you in the category of “odd but harmless.” Be polite, friendly, and concise.

If you are asked for any additional information about the con, some relevant details may include:

  • FilKONtario is organized by a nonprofit, the Filk Society of Upper Canada.
  • The con is entirely volunteer-run.
  • All attendees come to sing and play with their friends, and no one is paid to play.
  • Guest performers are refunded their travel and hotel costs.

Crossing by Land

If you are coming into Canada from the USA via the Buffalo/Niagara Falls point of entry, this page from the US Customs & Border Protection agency shows the approximate wait times at the border.

Travelling With Gear

For musicians travelling overland with a significant amount of gear, FilKONtario can provide you with a letter to show to customs agents explaining the purpose of your travel. Contact the concom at filkontarioinfo@gmail.com to request it.

Electronic Devices

When entering the USA, be aware that there is a small chance your electronic devices (such as phones, tablets, or laptops) may be searched at the border. For more information, see this page on Border Search of Electronic Devices, provided by US Customs & Border Protection. This article from Tom’s Guide provides some tips on safeguarding your information when travelling into the USA.

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