Jazmin Li
When travelling from Canada to the US, US citizens are required to confirm their identity and declare any goods they are bringing into the country. This can be done using a primary inspection kiosk (PIK) at the airport, where travellers can confirm their identity and submit their customs declaration. Travellers can also use the Advance CBSA Declaration to speed up the process. The time taken to clear customs and immigration varies depending on the number of international flights arriving simultaneously, with some sources stating that 90 minutes may be sufficient, while others suggest it could take up to seven hours.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time to arrive at the airport before the flight | 2-3 hours for an international flight, 60 minutes for a domestic flight |
| Time taken to complete customs and immigration | 40-60 minutes |
| Time taken to complete check-in and baggage drop | 2 hours |
| Time taken to complete security checks | 1 hour |
| Time taken to complete customs and immigration declaration | 72 hours in advance |
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What You'll Learn
Recommended arrival time for international flights
For US citizens travelling from Canada, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight. This is to ensure that you have enough time to check in, drop off your bags, and go through security and customs. Some sources recommend arriving three hours before your flight, especially if your flight is during peak times, such as early morning or evening, or during holidays.
If you are travelling from Toronto Pearson (YYZ) to the US, and your flight is before 9 am, Air Canada recommends arriving at the airport no later than three hours before your scheduled departure time. This is to ensure you have enough time to navigate security and customs procedures.
If you are flying with Porter Airlines, they recommend arriving at the airport at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time for international flights. They also advise that you allow for extra time if you have specific travel needs and require assistance.
For a smooth travel experience, it is important to give yourself enough time between connecting flights to allow for security checks and any necessary terminal changes. Most airlines allow you to check in and drop off your bags up to four hours before your flight's departure.
To avoid long wait times at the airport, it is recommended that you check the airport's website for any travel alerts or advisories that may affect your departure or arrival time. You can also use the TSA app to check how busy the US airport is likely to be on your specific day and time of travel.
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Border control wait times
For US citizens travelling from Canada, some sources suggest that 2 hours is sufficient time to clear border control, especially if you have TSA pre-check or are travelling through a more tech-efficient airport like YYZ. However, others recommend 3 hours to be on the safe side, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling during peak times.
To expedite the process, you can submit your customs and immigration declaration online using Advance Declaration up to 72 hours before your arrival in Canada. Additionally, downloading the ArriveCAN app is recommended for travel to Canada.
For travel to the US, it's suggested to have all necessary documentation ready, including identification and consent letters for children travelling with you. Global Entry members can save time by using the Verified Traveller security lane, but a physical GE card is required to access this lane.
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Priority lanes
Air Canada Priority Services:
Air Canada offers priority services to its premium customers, including Aeroplan Super Elite Status Members and International Business Class travellers. These services include priority security clearance, providing expedited access to security screening via exclusive lanes. Additionally, Concierge Agents are available at select airports to assist with ticketing, connections, upgrades, and baggage handling.
Toronto Pearson International Airport:
Toronto Pearson International Airport has introduced the ArriveCAN app, featuring the ""Advance Declaration" option. This feature allows US travellers to submit their customs and immigration paperwork up to 72 hours before their flight lands in Canada. By using this option, travellers can access expedited screening lanes and potentially clear immigration in under seven minutes. This advance declaration significantly reduces wait times, making it a valuable option for expediting the arrival process.
Star Alliance Gold Members:
Star Alliance Gold Members can enjoy priority services at select airports. By presenting their boarding pass with the eligibility indicator (Business Class, Aeroplan Super Elite, Aeroplan 75K, etc.), Gold Members can access priority security clearance and dedicated lanes. This service is available at specific airports, including Edinburgh, Istanbul, and Paris Charles de Gaulle.
Priority Boarding:
Air Canada and other airlines may offer priority boarding options, allowing passengers to board first or at their leisure through dedicated lanes. This service is often available to premium members or customers with specific boarding statuses. Priority baggage handling is also offered, ensuring that priority-tagged luggage is among the first on the carousel upon arrival.
Other Expedited Programs:
Programs like Global Entry, Mobile Passport, and TSA PreCheck offer expedited processing through designated lanes at US airports. These programs aim to reduce wait times and streamline the airport experience for enrolled members. Additionally, some airports provide priority lanes for first and business-class passengers, further expediting the security process.
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Online check-in
When travelling from Canada to the US, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least 60 minutes ahead of your departure time for a domestic flight and 2 to 3 hours ahead for an international flight.
Checking in online can speed up the process at the airport, especially if you are not checking any bags. If you are checking bags, it is recommended to arrive at the airport earlier, as most airlines allow you to drop off your bags as early as 4 hours before your flight's departure. This helps to reduce congestion at security and customs.
It is important to note that some passengers may not be eligible for online check-in and will need to check in with an airport agent. For example, on Air Canada, this includes children travelling with the Unaccompanied Minor service, customers requiring medical assistance or the use of a wheelchair, passengers travelling with a pet, and passengers whose first flight is operated by a different airline. Therefore, it is important to check the specific requirements and eligibility for online check-in with your chosen airline.
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Baggage check-in
When travelling as a US citizen from Canada to the US, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your flight's departure time. This is to ensure that you have enough time to navigate through security and customs procedures.
When checking in your baggage, it is important to be aware of the baggage rules and regulations of the airline you are flying with. Each airline may have different baggage allowances and restrictions, so it is recommended to review their policies before arriving at the airport. Some airlines may also have specific requirements for items such as medical cannabis, so it is important to declare these ahead of time to avoid any delays.
For Air Canada flights, passengers can check in their bags as early as 4 hours before departure. This helps to reduce congestion at security and customs. It is advised to use their checked baggage calculator to determine your free baggage allowance and any additional fees for excess baggage. The airline also offers an enhanced baggage allowance for eligible active and retired members of the Canadian and US military, allowing them to check up to three pieces of baggage weighing up to 32 kg each.
If your bags exceed the standard allowance in number, size, or weight, additional charges will apply. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure if checking additional, overweight, or oversized bags. This will provide sufficient time for the necessary security screening and baggage processing.
When checking in your baggage, you will need to proceed to the designated baggage drop-off counter. Here, you will present your baggage for inspection and provide any necessary documentation or identification. It is important to allow adequate time for this process, especially if you have special items or circumstances that require additional screening or handling.
In addition to the standard baggage check-in process, some airlines may have specific requirements or restrictions for certain items. For example, if you are travelling with pets, valuable items, or medical equipment, there may be different procedures to follow. It is important to review the airline's policies and guidelines beforehand to ensure a smooth check-in process.
By planning ahead, familiarizing yourself with the airline's baggage policies, and allowing ample time for check-in, you can ensure a seamless and stress-free experience when checking in your baggage for your flight from Canada to the US. Remember to consider any potential delays or unforeseen circumstances that may impact your journey, giving yourself a buffer to navigate any unexpected challenges.
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Frequently asked questions
The wait time depends on the airport and the time of your travel. Smaller airports like Montreal usually have faster customs processes, with wait times of under 15 minutes. However, during peak holiday travel, these wait times can increase to up to 45 minutes. Toronto Pearson, a larger airport, recommends a minimum connection time of 70 minutes for US-to-Canada flights and 70 minutes for Canada-to-US flights.
If you're arriving by air at one of Canada's participating international airports, you can save time by submitting your customs and immigration declaration online using Advance Declaration up to 72 hours before your arrival. At the airport, you can then proceed to a kiosk or eGate to retrieve your confirmed declaration receipt.
US citizens need to provide proof of their US citizenship upon entry. This can include a passport, a valid NEXUS card used at self-serve kiosks at designated airports, or an enhanced driver's license, depending on your age and mode of transportation.
Yes, you will need to declare any goods that you are bringing into the US from Canada. Some items may be subject to duty or taxes, or they may be restricted or prohibited.
Yes, parents who share custody of their children should bring copies of the legal custody documents when travelling with their children. A consent letter is also recommended for all cross-border travel when a child is travelling.
