Consulting travellers: Share your thoughts on using technology at the border

From: Canada Border Services Agency

News release

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is working to make travel smoother while keeping the border safe. We are putting in place tools and technologies, and updating processes, laws and policies to build the border of the future.

We are modernizing our services to respond to increasing numbers of travellers, economic and migratory trends, security threats such as terrorism and organized crime, and travellers' needs for easier and faster self-service processing. Digital solutions will improve the border experience by shortening wait times for travellers, reducing person-to-person border interactions and allowing officers to focus on more targeted activities.

Today, the CBSA launched an online survey for travellers to share their experience and give feedback on Advance Declaration and future border tools. The survey is available from August 1 to September 26.

The results of this survey will inform the planning and implementation of new and existing border tools and identify areas of improvement. In addition to this survey, the agency has and will continue to engage civil society groups, Indigenous groups, industry stakeholders, other government departments and its frontline employees for their input. 

Quick facts

  • The CBSA’s Advance Declaration allows travellers to make their customs and immigration declaration in advance and save time at participating airports. Data shows that it is up to 50% faster at the airport kiosk or eGate when travellers use Advance Declaration. The tool has been used more than 8.75 million times and is currently used approximately 350,000 times a month.

  • Travellers already have the option to use digital tools and technologies at the border. This includes facial recognition to help confirm your identity securely, while making the process faster and easier. For example, if you're arriving at one of 10 major Canadian airports, you can:

  • The CBSA is ensuring that privacy is at the forefront of the development of new technologies and tools through current and ongoing engagement with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner.

Associated links

Contacts

For more information or to schedule an interview with a CBSA representative, please contact:

Media Relations
Canada Border Services Agency
media@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
1-877-761-5945

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