canadian

Thank you

Some Canadian Customs inspectors have been known to act aggressively in the past depending on the port of entry. The same is true for CBP but aggressive inspections can also occur on the Canadian side much to the surprise of many individuals crossing.

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Sandra,

any gift you receive while abroad is subject to tax and duty as if you bought it. In fact anything you bring into canada that you did not go down with is subject to tax and duty -- even a new muffler on your car. The burden of prrof even if you do bring something fro mcanada and then bring it back is on you.

Sorry you did not realize this. And yes, an engagement ring is a gift.

Thank you

You may wish to consult an immigration lawyer who specializes in cross border affairs. They should be able to identify whether Canada Customs is entitled to seize those objects within the scope of the law and the steps required to reclaim your assets. Some of the government bodies do retain certain powers to execute in particular circumstances. For instance, if a person owed the Canadian government an outstanding balance left unpaid, by law, CRA does have the power to seize your assets including your house. At the very least, you should be able to find out whether in fact they are entitled to seize those items within the confines of the law.

Thank you

Your previous clean record really has no bearing on whether or not you should be taxed at this time.

Just a point: telling a custom's officer that your appraisal is has been inflated to fool insurance company, is proabaly not the best tactic. it demonstrates a willingness to 'beat the system'. Customs is a big part ot 'the system'.