Canada Advance Declaration (ArriveCAN)

The Canada Advance Declaration (previously known as ArriveCAN) is a digital document that allows travelers to submit their customs and immigration declarations.

Visitors can complete the declaration at least 72 hours before arrival to Canada.

It’s valid for a single visit to Canada (a new document is required for the next journey).

While filling out this form, travelers must provide personal information and details about their travel plans (such as duration of stay, carried goods, etc.).

The document serves as a tool for the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to monitor the flow of visitors and speed up the formalities at border control points.

Despite completing the Canadian Advance Declaration, the immigration officers may perform additional control to verify the visitor’s identity and check their luggage.

If the traveler didn’t complete the declaration before the trip, it must be done at the airport. It could lead to waiting in long queues at border control.

NOTE: If traveling to Canada with goods like alcohol, tobacco, plants, food, business documents, or money, fill out the Customs Declaration Card. It also applies to passengers traveling with animals.

Who Must Complete the Canada Advance Declaration

All foreigners must complete the immigration declaration regardless of nationality or travel plans.

Failure to declare goods or provide false information can lead to penalties, including fines.

The document declaring immigration and customs can be filled out at the airport upon arrival, but it’s much more convenient to do it online before leaving for the journey.

The entire process is simple and quick with the digital CBSA system.

It’s crucial that your Canada Advance Declaration is printed out. Don’t fold the paper so as not to damage the barcodes, which will be scanned on arrival to Canada.

How to Submit the Canada Advance Declaration

The process of submitting your Canadian Advance Declaration online is very simple.

First, make sure that you have a valid passport / Canadian permanent resident card – an identity document is required for successful registration.

1. Complete the ArriveCAN application form. Answer the customs questions and provide personal information.
2. Submit the required documentation. Upload a clear and legible scan of an identity document, preferably a valid passport.
3. Cover the processing fee. Pay for the online registration of the Canada Advance Declaration.

You’ll receive a payment confirmation email proving your successful application. Soon, you’ll find a digital copy of your Canada Advance Declaration there.

It’s best to complete the declaration 72 hours before arriving in Canada. It can be done earlier, but the contents of the luggage cannot change.

For more information or assistance, contact our knowledgeable Support Team.

Requirements on Arrival to Canada

Depending on your nationality, you may be required to complete a Canada eTA registration or apply for a Canadian visa at the embassy.

You need a proper entry document to Canada to avoid trouble while crossing the border.

Don’t forget a passport valid for at least 6 months from the planned travel date.

After landing in Canada, head to a special airport kiosk or eGate to certify the Canada Advance Declaration – you cannot omit this step!

• Review the information in your Canadian Advance Declaration
• Change the details and edit the declaration if necessary
• Submit your final declaration and certify the ArriveCAN

Once you’re done, head to the immigration officers for routine control. After completing the formalities, you can enjoy your stay in Canada.

NOTE: If your flight is delayed and you don’t confirm your customs and immigration declaration within 72 hours of submission, it’ll become invalid.

Ports of Entry Recognizing the Canada Advance Declaration

It’s possible to manually confirm the Canada Advance Declaration at the airport kiosk or eGate.

ArriveCAN kiosks are available at the following entry ports:

• Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
• Calgary International Airport (YYC)
• Edmonton International Airport (YEG)
• Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG)
• Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) (Terminal 1 and 3)
• Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)
• Ottawa International Airport (YOW)
• Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
• Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB)
• Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ)

For now, eGates are available only at the:

• Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) (Terminal 1)

If the digital solutions aren’t available at the chosen airport you’re traveling to, you’ll receive a paper Canada Advance Declaration to complete onboard your flight.