Hammertoad:
You were given incorrect info. The US INS/Customs are on Canadian territory. The proof is in what happens if you refuse to let them inspect your luggage. In the US, they would mostly likely use that as reasonable grounds to search and possibly arrest you. In a Canadian airport, the only option they have is to refuse you entry. In fact, they are obliged to offer you this option. The consequence of course, is that you'll be flagged as having been denied entry, pretty much removing any chance of you ever entering the US again. And BTW, there's usually a mountie nearby, who'd probably be interested in you refusing to have your luggage examined.

Nevertheless, clearing US formalities in Canada makes landing in the US much quicker and easier, especially if you are making a connection, which is very common. As noted earlier, it also allows for direct flights to airports that wouldn't normally allow international arrivals, due to customs limitations.

As for exit checks, I get them fairly regularly, both by air and by car, and once by ferry. It's happened in BC, ON, somewhere between SK and MT a long time ago, and between Miami and Panama. Each time they wanted to know if I had more than $10,000 (I wish!), but sometimes they ask other questions as well. I've also been asked this question once in a while upon entering the US.



[This message has been edited by KenHamer (edited 11-19-1999).]