The Canada Border Services Agency has introduced a new process that allows eligible international travellers connecting through Canadian airports to bypass in-person customs check-ins, reducing wait times while maintaining border security.
The Free Flow International-to-International Transit process is designed for passengers travelling from one international destination to another through Canada without entering the country. Under the new system, eligible travellers can proceed directly to their connecting flight instead of stopping to meet with a border services officer or using a customs kiosk.
Rather than requiring travellers to report to customs, participating airlines will electronically submit passengers’ travel information, including their final destination and scheduled departure time to the CBSA. The agency will use the information to verify that travellers leave Canada as scheduled.
The CBSA said travellers must still carry all required travel documents, including any necessary visas or electronic travel authorizations, as well as a confirmed airline ticket for an international flight departing Canada within 24 hours of arrival.
The streamlined transit process has been implemented at Vancouver International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport (Terminal 1), and Montréal–Trudeau International Airport following successful testing.
The agency said the initiative is intended to improve the traveller experience while allowing border officers to focus more resources on higher-risk travellers and activities.
“The Free Flow International-to-International Transit process is one of the ways the CBSA is improving the traveller experience while maintaining the security of Canada’s border,” said Rob Chambers.
“We are working with our airport partners to provide a simpler and more efficient process for travellers to get to their international destinations without delay. The CBSA is putting in place tools and technologies, and updating processes to build the border of the future.”
The CBSA said the changes follow proposed regulatory amendments that were published in the Canada Gazette for a 30-day public consultation period. The agency added that other Canadian airports may apply to adopt the Free Flow International-to-International Transit process.
Officials emphasized that all travellers must continue to meet Canada’s transit and entry requirements, including holding a valid Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), where applicable.
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