Amtrak passengers can now clear U.S. customs before boarding in Vancouver
Pacific Central Station becomes North America's first rail preclearance facility, letting passengers skip border checks on arrival.
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Passengers heading to the U.S. on Amtrak can now complete U.S. customs and border screening before boarding their train at Pacific Central Station. The move makes Vancouver's rail hub the first in North America to offer preclearance for train travel — a capability that's been standard at major airports for years but never before available at a rail terminal.
The preclearance process consolidates inspection, security, and customs procedures into a single step before departure. Once trains leave Vancouver, they proceed directly into the United States without stopping for enroute border screening.
The federal government partnered with the Washington State Department of Transportation, VIA Rail, and agencies including U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Canada Border Services Agency to make it happen. Targeted upgrades were completed at Pacific Central to accommodate the enhanced customs and security operations.
For commuters and travellers heading south on Amtrak, the change means simpler, faster border crossings and a more seamless journey.