When you arrive at the terminal, follow the signs to the first Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) checkpoint, also called “primary inspection.” If you used Advance Declaration, go to a kiosk or eGate to retrieve your confirmed declaration receipt. Up to 5 people may use a kiosk as a group upon arrival.

Clearing customs in Canada in 2026 is a highly digitized process primarily managed by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Upon arrival at major international hubs like Toronto Pearson or Vancouver International, most travelers use Primary Inspection Kiosks (PIK) or eGates rather than paper forms. You scan your passport, take a photo, and answer on-screen declaration questions regarding goods, currency over $10,000, and food items. A major "pro-tip" for 2026 is to use the ArriveCAN app's Advance Declaration feature up to 72 hours before landing. This allows you to skip much of the kiosk data entry, generating a digital receipt that you simply scan at an express lane. After receiving a printed kiosk receipt, you proceed to a border officer for a final brief interview. If you have nothing to declare, you collect your luggage and exit; however, if you are flagged for "secondary inspection," officers may perform a manual search of your baggage to ensure compliance with import laws.