Three Canadian airports allow transiting international passengers to skip border control
Key takeaways
- International travelers can now skip border security when transiting through Toronto, Vancouver, and Montréal airports.
- This change is effective from June 26, 2026.
- Passengers must hold a confirmed ticket for an international flight departing within 24 hours.
- The new process aims to streamline passenger flow and reduce wait times.
Effective June 26, 2026, transiting international passengers arriving at Toronto Pearson International Airport, Vancouver International Airport, and Montréal Pierre Elliott-Trudeau International Airport can bypass border control. This procedure, introduced by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), allows eligible travelers to proceed directly to international departures without needing to meet with a border officer or check in at a kiosk. For more details, readers can refer to the CIC News article.
To qualify for this streamlined process, passengers must have a confirmed airline ticket for an international flight leaving Canada within 24 hours of their arrival. They must also stay within the airport's designated international departure zone until it is time to board their next flight.
New border control rules for transiting passengers
The CBSA has implemented these new rules under its Free Flow International-to-International Transit process. This initiative builds on a previous pilot project that allowed some transiting passengers to bypass certain border controls by scanning their passports at kiosks. The updated process removes the need for this passport scan, simplifying the transition between flights.
Passengers whose baggage is automatically transferred to their next flight are eligible for the Free Flow process. However, if a flight is delayed or canceled, or if the layover exceeds 24 hours, travelers will need to report to the CBSA for processing.
Airports that allow skipping border control
The airports that have adopted this new process include:
- Toronto Pearson International Airport (Terminal 1)
- Vancouver International Airport
- Montréal Pierre Elliott-Trudeau International Airport
These airports are currently the only locations where this border control exemption is in effect, although other airports across Canada may apply to participate in this initiative.
Requirements for the Free Flow process
To successfully navigate the Free Flow process, travelers must meet several requirements:
- Hold a confirmed ticket for an international flight departing Canada within 24 hours.
- Remain in the designated international departure area of the airport until boarding their next flight.
- Ensure they have the necessary visas and travel documentation for their final destination, including any required Transit Visas or electronic travel authorizations.
This initiative aims to provide a more efficient travel experience for international passengers and improve the flow of travelers through major Canadian airports. The CBSA remains committed to collaborating with airport partners to streamline processes and reduce wait times for transiting passengers.
For further information on the latest immigration news and updates, visit the Canadian Immigration News.
Official current rules are at canada.ca; this guide is independent reference content.