International travellers passing through Canada on their way to another country will now enjoy a faster and more convenient airport experience under a new transit process introduced by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
The new Free Flow International-to-International Transit program is designed to simplify connections for passengers whose journeys include a stop at a Canadian airport before continuing to an international destination. Under the updated system, eligible travellers will no longer be required to meet a border services officer in person or complete customs processing through self-service kiosks while transiting through Canada.
Instead, airlines will electronically submit passenger information directly to the Canada Border Services Agency before departure. The information, including a traveller’s final destination and scheduled onward flight, will allow border officials to verify that passengers are continuing their international journey without requiring them to undergo additional border processing during their connection.
The streamlined process is expected to significantly reduce connection times, improve passenger flow through airports, and make Canadian airports more attractive as international transit hubs while maintaining Canada’s border security standards.
Travellers must still satisfy all existing entry and transit requirements. Eligible passengers are required to possess valid travel documents for their final destination, including confirmed onward airline tickets departing Canada within 24 hours of arrival. Where applicable, travellers must also continue to hold a valid Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) in accordance with Canadian immigration regulations.
The Canada Border Services Agency emphasized that while the passenger experience has become more efficient, border security has not been compromised. By receiving advance traveller information directly from airlines, the agency will continue to assess passengers before arrival and ensure compliance with Canadian immigration and security requirements.
Following successful testing, the new transit system is now fully operational at three of Canada’s busiest international gateways: Vancouver International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport’s Terminal 1, and Montréal–Trudeau International Airport.
Border officials say the initiative forms part of Canada’s broader strategy to modernize border management through the use of advanced technology, digital information sharing, and more efficient processing systems. The goal is to improve the travel experience while maintaining strong border integrity and supporting the growing number of international passengers choosing Canada as a connecting point.
As global air travel continues to recover and expand, the new transit program is expected to enhance Canada’s competitiveness as an international aviation hub by offering faster, more seamless connections for travellers while preserving the country’s high standards of security and border management.