Your First Steps on Canadian Soil
Arriving in Canada is an exciting moment — but knowing what to expect at customs and border services can make the experience smooth and stress-free. Whether you're landing at Toronto Pearson, Vancouver International, or Montréal-Trudeau, the process follows a similar pattern. Here's a thorough walkthrough of what happens after your plane lands.
Before You Land: The CBSA Declaration
On your flight, you'll be handed a CBSA Declaration Card (or directed to use the ArriveCAN app or kiosks upon landing). You'll need to declare:
- Whether you're bringing goods worth more than CAD $10,000
- Food, plant, or animal products in your luggage
- Currency or monetary instruments over CAD $10,000
- Items you purchased or received abroad
Be honest on this form — Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers take declarations seriously, and failing to declare goods can result in fines or seizure of items.
Step 1: Primary Inspection Kiosks (PIK)
Most major Canadian airports now use automated Primary Inspection Kiosks (PIK). You'll scan your passport, answer on-screen questions, take a photo, and receive a receipt. This receipt then goes to a CBSA officer who reviews it and may wave you through or refer you for secondary inspection.
Step 2: Speaking with a CBSA Officer
Whether at a kiosk or face-to-face, a CBSA officer may ask you standard questions such as:
- What is the purpose of your visit?
- How long do you plan to stay?
- Where will you be staying?
- Do you have enough funds to support your stay?
- Do you have a return or onward ticket?
Answer clearly and honestly. You do not need to over-explain — keep answers concise and factual.
Step 3: Baggage and Customs Hall
After clearing primary inspection, you'll collect your checked luggage and proceed through the customs hall. If the kiosk or officer has cleared you, you can walk straight out. If flagged, you'll be directed to a secondary inspection area where your bags may be checked.
What Can You Bring Into Canada?
- Alcohol: Limited quantities duty-free (e.g., up to 1.5L of wine or 1.14L of spirits)
- Tobacco: Up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars duty-free
- Gifts: Up to CAD $60 per gift, duty-free
- Cannabis: Strictly prohibited to bring across international borders, even from countries where it is legal
- Firearms: Strict regulations apply — always declare and check requirements in advance
Traveling by Land or Sea?
If you're crossing into Canada by car or bus from the US, or arriving by cruise ship, the process is similar but you won't use PIK kiosks. You'll interact directly with a CBSA officer at the port of entry. Remember: if you're from a visa-exempt country, you do not need an eTA for land or sea crossings — only air travel requires one.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Arrival
- Have your documents ready: Passport (with eTA linked), declaration card or receipt, return ticket details, and accommodation info.
- Dress comfortably but appropriately: First impressions can matter at border crossings.
- Don't joke about border-related topics: CBSA officers handle security seriously — humor about prohibited items is never a good idea.
- Know your rights: You have the right to know why you're being referred for secondary inspection.
- Declare everything in doubt: "When in doubt, declare it" is the safest rule to follow.
What Happens During Secondary Inspection?
Being sent to secondary inspection is not uncommon and doesn't automatically mean something is wrong. Officers may simply want to verify information or check your luggage. It can add anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour to your arrival process, so factor this in when making connecting plans.
Final Tips
Canada welcomes millions of visitors each year, and border crossings are designed to be efficient. Being prepared, honest, and calm goes a long way. With your eTA in order and your declaration completed accurately, you should be on your way into Canada without any trouble.