Preclearance operations in Canada are a critical component of U.S. border strategy

The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa says preclearance operations in Canada remain a critical component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection's extended border strategy, and more than 16 million travellers were pre-cleared from Canada in the year to Sept. 30, 2024.

U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra's remarks last year raised questions about the future of U.S. preclearance at Canadian airports. The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa responded that U.S. Customs and Border Protection regularly assesses staffing and that preclearance operations in Canada remain a critical component of the agency's extended border strategy. Public Safety Canada describes preclearance as a way to push the border out so officials can intercept threats before people or goods cross the border and to streamline travel. The United States currently conducts preclearance at eight major Canadian airports and a ferry terminal at Prince Rupert, B.C. Key facts: - More than 16 million people were pre-cleared to fly to the United States from Canada in the 12-month period ending Sept. 30, 2024. - Public Safety Canada says three out of five travellers pre-cleared to enter the United States worldwide depart from Vancouver, Toronto or Montreal airports. - The U.S. Embassy said preclearance operations in Canada remain a critical component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection's extended border strategy. - Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has completed its preclearance facility and is conducting training and testing, with officials expecting operations to begin by spring. - A Canada–U.S. agreement allows preclearance for land, marine, rail and air travel and permits either country to establish operations in the other's territory. - An internal Public Safety note listed additional possible Canadian sites for preclearance over the next five years, but officials say discussions are ongoing and there are no immediate plans to expand. Summary: U.S. and Canadian officials present preclearance as an important tool for security and travel efficiency. A completed facility at Billy Bishop in Toronto is in testing and is expected to begin processing passengers by spring, while the Canada Border Services Agency's planned Cannon Corners operation is delayed as key policies and minor infrastructure are finalized. Other potential sites have been identified and discussions continue, but no new launch dates have been set.