Canada Makes it Easier for International Passengers With Free Flow Transit – All You Need to Know

June 29, 2026 Team Contributor

Attention international travellers! In a recent move by the Canada Border Services Agency aimed at improving the traveller experience, it is doing away with the “forced entry” into Canada.

The welcome move will simplify transit and reduce processing time for international travellers passing through Canadian airports en route to other countries by leveraging an enhanced digital ecosystem rather than tedious manual checks.

With less connection time and a smaller volume of passengers to process, CBSA’s move will also strengthen Canadian airports (like YYZ and YVR) to compete as global transit hubs. The move is part of CBSA’s Traveller Modernization Initiative.

What changes for international passengers?

Under the new process, called the Free Flow International-to-International Transit, international passengers can now skip in-person border check-ins and go directly to their next flight, bringing huge relief.

Instead of travellers having to stop at customs, airlines will provide the CBSA with travel information. This will keep the border secure while saving time for travellers.

Speaking on the changes, Rob Chambers,  Vice President, Travellers Branch, Canada Border Services Agency, said, “ The Free Flow International-to-International Transit process is one of the ways the CBSA is improving the traveller experience while maintaining the security of Canada’s border. We are working with our airport partners to provide a simpler and more efficient process for travellers to get to their international destinations without delay. The CBSA is putting in place tools and technologies, and updating processes to build the border of the future.”

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is responsible for managing the flow of people and goods into and out of Canada to ensure national security and public safety. It achieves this by enforcing customs and immigration laws while issuing travel-related advisories and tips to facilitate smooth movement across the border.

How does CBSA’s Free Flow Transit work

If you are flying through Canada to reach another international country, here is how the simplified transit process works

• Skip those Customs Lines: You do not need to meet with a border officer or use a self-serve kiosk to clear customs. As long as you are staying in the international transit area, you can head directly to your next gate.
• Automatic Verification: Your airline handles the paperwork. They securely share your flight details, including your final destination and departure time, with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to confirm you are continuing your journey as planned.
• What You Need: You must still carry all required travel documents (such as a visa) for your final destination. Additionally, you must have a confirmed flight ticket departing Canada within 24 hours of your arrival. Find out if you need a visa or an eTA
• Where It Is Available: This streamlined process is currently active at three major hubs:
  • Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
  • Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) – Terminal 1
  • Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL)

Connecting through Canada

1. Staying International (Not going to the U.S.) If you are flying from one country to another and just stopping in Canada to switch planes:

• The “Easy” Way: If your airline automatically transfers your bags and you have a same-day connection, you don’t need to go through Canadian customs. You can head straight to your next departure gate.
• When You Must Clear Customs: You must go through the regular Canadian customs process if:
  • Your airline does not automatically transfer your bags.
  • Your connection is on a different day than your arrival.
  • Your flight is cancelled or delayed, forcing you to stay longer than 24 hours.
  • You choose to leave the airport’s secure transit area.

2. Connecting to the United States If Canada is just a stop on your way to the U.S.:

• Follow the signs for “U.S. Connections.”
• You will go through security screening again.
• You will pass through U.S. Customs and Border Protection before you reach your gate.

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