What is customs like in Vancouver?

You will be met by a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Officer. The CBSA protects Canada's borders and points of entry. The officer will ask to see your passport or travel documents and Declaration Card. Make sure that you have these documents with you and that they are not packed in your luggage.



Customs at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is highly digitized and generally efficient, utilizing the Primary Inspection Kiosks (PIK) for most international arrivals. Upon landing, you will head to a line of kiosks where you scan your passport, take a photo, and answer the standard declaration questions regarding food, plant products, and currency. In 2026, travelers are strongly encouraged to use the ArriveCAN app to submit their "Advance Declaration" up to 72 hours before arrival, which allows you to use an express lane at the kiosks. After receiving your printed receipt from the kiosk, you proceed to a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer for a brief interview. Vancouver is known for being particularly strict about agricultural products (especially dried fruits, nuts, and meats) due to British Columbia's delicate ecosystem. If you are entering the U.S. from Vancouver, you will use the U.S. Preclearance facility, where you clear U.S. Customs and Immigration in Vancouver before you even board your flight, allowing you to land in the U.S. as a domestic passenger.

People Also Ask

All customers arriving on an international flight must clear customs checkpoints, and collect their bags before being able to enter Canada. However, if you have an international connection to a city outside North America you do not claim your bags. They will be transferred automatically.

MORE DETAILS

There is no TSA pre check in Canada so you can't actually get it in Canada.

MORE DETAILS

When entering the United States from overseas, you must obtain your luggage and bring them through Customs and Border Protection (CBP). You will need to check them back into the airlines to make your next flight. Baggage not obtained after your international flight will not get to your final destination.

MORE DETAILS

All major Canadian airports host U.S. Customs and Border Protection (C.B.P.). So you clear customs and immigration while still on Canadian soil and it is considered that you crossed the border already, before boarding the plane.

MORE DETAILS

International flights require longer connections as you will often have to go through immigration and customs upon arrival. For international layover flights booked on one airline, two hours is often recommended to make your connection.

MORE DETAILS

Allow enough time: Customs can be time-consuming, especially during peak travel periods. Make sure you allow enough time to clear customs and get to your connecting flight. As a general rule, it's best to allow at least two hours for international layovers.

MORE DETAILS

Ensure that you have proper identification for you and your family readily available. Acceptable forms of identification for entry into Canada include a passport, a NEXUS card and an enhanced driver's licence.

MORE DETAILS