Canada and U.S. Advance Two Key Preclearance Projects in 2026

Expanded Preclearance Initiatives Set for 2026

Canada and the United States have confirmed that two pivotal preclearance projects are slated to proceed in 2026, following extensive planning and development. These initiatives aim to enhance border security and significantly streamline the travel experience for individuals crossing the Canada-U.S. border. Preclearance allows travelers to undergo customs and immigration screening by officers of their destination country before departing from their country of origin.

Understanding the Preclearance Framework

Preclearance is a border management program designed to improve the flow of legitimate travelers and goods while bolstering security by identifying potential threats earlier in the process. This system enables border officers from the inspecting party to determine the admissibility of travelers and goods before they enter the inspecting party's territory. The legal foundation for this expanded cooperation was established with the signing of the Agreement on Land, Rail, Marine, and Air Transport Preclearance (LRMA) in March 2015, which officially came into force in August 2019. Currently, U.S. preclearance operations are active at eight major Canadian airports and a ferry terminal in Prince Rupert, British Columbia.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport to Launch U.S. Preclearance

One of the key projects advancing this year is the establishment of a new U.S. preclearance facility at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ). The facility is now complete, and final steps are underway for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to commence processing passengers. Operations are anticipated to begin by spring 2026. This marks a significant milestone as it represents the first new preclearance location in Canada since 2006 and the first to be implemented under the 2015 LRMA. The addition of preclearance at Billy Bishop is expected to facilitate new daily routes to several U.S. destinations, including New York, Boston, Washington, and Chicago.

Canada's First Preclearance Operation on U.S. Soil

In a reciprocal move, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is set to launch its first preclearance operation on U.S. territory at Cannon Corners, New York. This facility is adjacent to the Covey Hill, Quebec port of entry. While initially planned for 2025, the implementation of this two-year pilot project has been delayed as the CBSA finalizes necessary policy revisions and minor infrastructure adjustments. Both countries have confirmed that this initiative will proceed in 2026, though a specific launch date has not yet been announced. At Cannon Corners, Canadian officers will screen travelers and goods to determine their admissibility into Canada before they leave the U.S., including checks for dangerous items such as firearms and drugs.

Future Outlook for Cross-Border Travel

The advancement of these preclearance projects underscores the ongoing commitment of Canada and the United States to enhance security and efficiency at their shared border. The reciprocal nature of the LRMA allows for potential future expansions, with locations such as Montreal's central rail station and Quebec City's airport having been mentioned as possible sites for U.S. preclearance operations. These efforts are expected to provide faster and more reliable service for travelers, contributing to economic prosperity and a higher level of security for both nations.