Advance Declaration: Save Time When Making Your Customs and Immigration Declaration in Advance
Waiting in long lines at the airport after a tiring flight is nobody's idea of fun. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has a solution: Advance Declaration in the ArriveCAN app.
This simple, free tool lets you complete your customs and immigration declaration before you even leave for the airport – up to 72 hours before your flight. When you land in Canada, you skip the long lines and head straight to the express lane.
This guide explains everything you need to know in plain, simple language.
What is Advance Declaration? (In Plain English)
Advance Declaration is a feature inside the ArriveCAN app. Instead of filling out a paper customs form on the airplane or using a machine at the airport, you answer all the questions on your own phone or computer, at home, before your trip.
When you arrive at a participating Canadian airport, you go to a special Advance Declaration express lane, scan a barcode, confirm your answers at a kiosk or eGate, and you are done. It is up to 50% faster than the regular process.
What Advance Declaration Offers (The Benefits)
Using Advance Declaration comes with several important advantages:
| Benefit | What It Means For You |
|---|---|
| Modern, digital experience | No more paper forms. No more pens. Everything is on your device. |
| Self-serve tool | You control the process. Answer at your own pace. No rushing. |
| Prepare from anywhere | At home, at your hotel, or at the office – as long as you have internet. |
| Up to 72 hours in advance | You can submit your declaration up to 3 full days before your flight. |
| Express lanes | Skip the regular line. Go directly to the Advance Declaration lane. |
| Up to 50% faster | At the kiosk or eGate, you simply confirm your answers instead of typing them all in. |
| Edit before submitting | You can change your answers anytime before you certify (confirm) your declaration. |
Important note: At this time, travellers cannot use Advance Declaration with NEXUS kiosks. If you have NEXUS, continue using the dedicated NEXUS lanes and machines.
Participating Airports (10 Locations)
Advance Declaration is currently available at the following 10 Canadian airports:
| Airport | Code | Terminals |
|---|---|---|
| Vancouver International Airport | YVR | All terminals |
| Toronto Pearson International Airport | YYZ | Terminals 1 and 3 |
| Montréal-Trudeau International Airport | YUL | All terminals |
| Calgary International Airport | YYC | All terminals |
| Edmonton International Airport | YEG | All terminals |
| Ottawa International Airport | YOW | All terminals |
| Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport | YWG | All terminals |
| Halifax Stanfield International Airport | YHZ | All terminals |
| Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport | YQB | All terminals |
| Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport | YTZ | All terminals |
Important: If you are flying into an airport that is not on this list, you cannot use Advance Declaration. You will need to use the regular declaration method (paper form or regular primary inspection kiosk).
What You Need Before You Start
Before you open the ArriveCAN app, gather the following information. Having everything ready will make the process quick and smooth.
Required Information
| Item | Details Needed |
|---|---|
| Travel document | Your passport (or other accepted travel document) |
| Flight information | Airline name, flight number, and arrival date |
| Personal information | Full name, date of birth, gender |
| Residence address | Your home address (street, city, country) |
| Purpose of travel | Why are you coming to Canada? (Tourism, business, study, returning home, etc.) |
| Length of stay | How many days will you be in Canada? (If returning home, indicate that) |
| Goods to declare | What are you bringing into Canada? (Purchases, gifts, food, plants, animals, cash over $10,000, etc.) |
For Families and Groups
You can submit one declaration for up to 8 travellers who are arriving on the same flight and at the same address. This includes:
- Family members (spouse, partner, children)
- Friends travelling together
- Any group living at the same residence
Each person still needs their own travel document information ready.
How to Access the App and Create Your Account
Follow these simple steps to get started.
Step 1: Download ArriveCAN
The ArriveCAN app is completely free. You can download it from:
| Device | Where to Download |
|---|---|
| iPhone or iPad | Apple App Store |
| Android phone or tablet | Google Play Store |
| Computer | Use the web version at canada.ca/arrivecan |
Warning: There are fake apps that charge money. Always download the official ArriveCAN app from the official app stores. The real app is free.
Step 2: Create Your Account
- Open the ArriveCAN app
- Tap "Create an account"
- Enter your email address
- Create a password (make it strong and memorable)
- Check your email for a verification code
- Enter the code into the app
- Your account is now ready
Step 3: Save Your Traveller Information (Optional but Recommended)
You can save your personal information in the app so you do not have to type it every time.
- Go to "Saved travellers"
- Tap "Add traveller"
- Enter your passport information
- Save
Do this for each family member who travels with you often.
How to Submit Your Advance Declaration (Step-by-Step)
Once your account is ready, follow these steps to submit your declaration.
Step 1: Start a New Declaration
- Open ArriveCAN
- Tap "Advance Declaration"
- Tap "Start new declaration"
Step 2: Select Your Airport and Flight
- Choose the Canadian airport you are flying into from the list
- Enter your airline name
- Enter your flight number
- Enter your scheduled arrival date
Step 3: Add Travellers
- Select yourself from your saved travellers list, or add a new traveller
- Add any family members or group members (up to 8 total)
- Confirm each person's travel document information
Step 4: Answer the Declaration Questions
You will be asked about:
| Question Category | What You Will Be Asked |
|---|---|
| Residence | Where do you live? (Street address, city, country) |
| Purpose of trip | Why are you coming to Canada? |
| Length of stay | How many days will you be in Canada? |
| Goods to declare | Are you bringing any of the following: food, plants, animals, currency over $10,000 CAD, gifts, alcohol, tobacco, or commercial goods? |
| Firearms and weapons | Are you bringing any firearms or weapons? |
| Previous visits | Have you visited a farm or been outside Canada in the last 14 days? |
Be honest. Lying on a customs declaration is a serious offence. Goods can be seized, and you could face fines or even criminal charges.
Step 5: Review Your Answers
Before you submit, the app will show you a summary of all your answers. Read everything carefully.
- If something is wrong, tap "Edit" to change it.
- If everything is correct, proceed to the next step.
Step 6: Certify (Confirm) Your Declaration
Certifying means you are legally confirming that all your answers are true and correct.
- Read the certification statement carefully
- Tap "Certify" or "Submit"
- You will receive a confirmation receipt with a barcode
Step 7: Save or Screenshot Your Receipt
After you certify your declaration, the app will show you a receipt with a barcode and a confirmation number.
Do this: Take a screenshot of the receipt. Or save it to your phone's wallet. Or write down the confirmation number.
You will need this barcode at the airport.
Note: Your declaration expires if you do not use it. You can submit up to 72 hours before your flight. If your flight is delayed or cancelled, you can edit or re-submit your declaration.
What Happens at the Airport (Arrival Process)
Here is what you do when you land in Canada.
Step 1: Follow Signs to Advance Declaration
After you get off the plane, follow the signs for "Advance Declaration" or "Express Lane." Do not go into the regular line.
Step 2: Scan Your Barcode
At the Advance Declaration kiosk or eGate:
- Open your ArriveCAN receipt (use your screenshot or saved copy)
- Hold your phone's barcode up to the scanner on the kiosk or eGate
- The machine will pull up your declaration
Step 3: Confirm Your Declaration
The kiosk or eGate will show you your answers. You will be asked to:
- Confirm that all information is still correct
- Make any changes if needed (for example, if you bought something at the duty-free shop after submitting)
- Take a photo (if required by the kiosk)
Step 4: Submit at the Kiosk
Once you confirm everything, the kiosk will print a receipt. Take this receipt with you.
Step 5: See a Border Services Officer
Proceed to the border services officer with your:
- Passport
- Kiosk receipt (if printed)
- Any documents they request
The officer will review your declaration, ask any follow-up questions, and then welcome you to Canada.
Total time saved: Up to 50% faster than using a regular kiosk and typing all your answers from scratch.
Help Topics (Common Questions and Answers)
Can I change my declaration after I submit it?
Yes. You can edit your declaration at the kiosk or eGate when you arrive. For example, if you buy extra items at the duty-free shop after submitting your declaration, you can add them at the kiosk.
What if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
Your declaration is tied to your original flight date. If your flight is delayed to a different day, you should submit a new declaration. The app allows you to edit or start over.
Can I use Advance Declaration for my whole family?
Yes. You can include up to 8 travellers on one declaration, as long as they are arriving on the same flight and live at the same address.
Is Advance Declaration available for land or sea travel?
No. Currently, Advance Declaration is only available for air travel into Canada at the 10 participating airports listed above.
Do I still need to talk to a border officer?
Yes. Advance Declaration speeds up the process, but you will still meet with a border services officer. They may ask you questions to verify your declaration.
Is ArriveCAN free?
Yes. The official ArriveCAN app is completely free. Do not pay anyone for access to the app or for help submitting a declaration. Scammers exist.
What if I do not have a smartphone?
You can use the web version of ArriveCAN on any computer (at home, at a library, or at a hotel). You will need to print your receipt or write down your confirmation number and bring it to the airport.
Can I use Advance Declaration with NEXUS?
No. At this time, Advance Declaration cannot be used with NEXUS kiosks. NEXUS members should continue using dedicated NEXUS lanes and machines.
Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| I cannot find my receipt barcode | Check your screenshots, email, or saved files. You can also reopen ArriveCAN and view your past declarations under "History." |
| The kiosk will not scan my barcode | Make sure your screen brightness is turned up. Hold your phone flat against the scanner. If it still does not work, ask an airport staff member for help. |
| I submitted the wrong information | You can edit your declaration at the kiosk or eGate when you arrive. |
| I forgot to submit my declaration | You can still use the regular kiosk at the airport. It will take a little longer, but you will still be processed. |
| The app is not working | Try closing and reopening the app. Check that you have the latest version installed. If problems continue, use the web version at canada.ca/arrivecan. |
| I am travelling with someone not on my declaration | They must submit their own declaration or use the regular line. |
Tips for a Smooth Advance Declaration Experience
Follow these simple tips to save the most time and avoid problems.
Before You Leave Home
- Download ArriveCAN at least a few days before your flight
- Create your account and save your traveller information
- Submit your declaration within 72 hours of your flight (not earlier)
- Take a screenshot of your receipt barcode
- Charge your phone before going to the airport
- Make sure your passport is not expired
At the Airport (Departure)
- Keep your phone accessible (not buried in checked luggage)
- Do not buy items that need to be declared after submitting your declaration (or be ready to add them at the kiosk)
Upon Arrival in Canada
- Turn your phone on and open your receipt screenshot
- Follow signs for "Advance Declaration" or "Express Lane"
- Increase your screen brightness for easier scanning
- Have your passport ready
What to Declare (A Simple Checklist)
You must declare the following items. Failure to declare can result in fines, seizure of goods, or prosecution.
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Food | Meat, dairy, fruits, vegetables, fish, eggs, baked goods, candy |
| Plants | Seeds, bulbs, cut flowers, soil, wood products |
| Animals | Pets (dogs, cats), animal products (hides, feathers, bones) |
| Currency | Cash, money orders, cheques, stocks, bonds totaling $10,000 CAD or more |
| Alcohol | Beer, wine, spirits over the duty-free allowance |
| Tobacco | Cigarettes, cigars, loose tobacco over the duty-free allowance |
| Gifts | Any gifts you are bringing for people in Canada |
| Commercial goods | Items you plan to sell or use for business |
| Firearms and weapons | Guns, pepper spray, knives, brass knuckles, etc. |
When in doubt, declare it. It is always better to declare something that turns out to be allowed than to not declare something that is prohibited.
Contact Us (Getting Help)
If you need help with Advance Declaration or the ArriveCAN app, here is how to reach the CBSA.
Before Your Trip
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Online | Visit canada.ca/arrivecan for guides and FAQs |
| Phone (within Canada) | 1-833-283-7403 |
| Phone (outside Canada) | 1-613-317-5462 (long-distance charges apply) |
| TTY (hearing impaired) | 1-800-465-7735 |
At the Airport
If you are having trouble at the airport, ask any CBSA officer or airport staff member for help. They are there to assist you.
Report a Technical Problem with the App
If the app is not working properly:
- Go to the ArriveCAN help page on canada.ca
- Click "Report a technical issue"
- Describe the problem in detail
- Include your device type (iPhone, Android, computer) and app version
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Advance Declaration mandatory?
No. It is completely optional. You can still use the regular declaration method (paper form or regular kiosk). However, Advance Declaration saves time, so it is highly recommended.
Q2: How much time will I really save?
The CBSA states that using Advance Declaration is up to 50% faster at the kiosk or eGate compared to typing all your answers from scratch. Actual time savings depend on how busy the airport is.
Q3: Can I use Advance Declaration for a connecting flight?
Yes. You submit your declaration for your final destination in Canada. For example, if you fly from London to Toronto, then connect to Calgary, you submit your declaration for Calgary.
Q4: What if my phone dies at the airport?
If you saved a screenshot or printed your receipt, you are fine. If not, you can use the regular kiosk. The border officer can also look you up using your passport, but this may take longer.
Q5: Can I submit a declaration for someone else?
Yes. You can add up to 8 travellers to your declaration, including family and friends. Each person's travel document information must be entered.
Q6: Do children need their own declaration?
No. Children can be included in a parent's or guardian's declaration. Add them as a traveller in the app.
Q7: What happens if I make a mistake on my declaration?
If you realize the mistake before you certify, you can edit it. If you already certified, you can correct it at the kiosk or eGate when you arrive. Tell the border officer about any mistake honestly.
Q8: Is my information safe in ArriveCAN?
The CBSA takes privacy and security seriously. Your information is encrypted and protected. It is only used for customs and immigration purposes.
Summary: The Advance Declaration Process at a Glance
| Step | Action | When |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Download ArriveCAN (free) | Any time before travel |
| 2 | Create your account | One time only |
| 3 | Submit your declaration | Up to 72 hours before your flight |
| 4 | Save or screenshot your receipt | Immediately after submitting |
| 5 | Go to Advance Declaration lane at airport | Upon arrival in Canada |
| 6 | Scan your barcode at kiosk or eGate | At the airport |
| 7 | Confirm your answers | At the airport |
| 8 | See border officer | At the airport |
| 9 | Welcome to Canada! | Done |
Final Thoughts
Advance Declaration in the ArriveCAN app is a simple, free, and effective way to save time at Canada's busiest airports. By submitting your customs and immigration declaration up to 72 hours before your flight, you avoid the stress of filling out forms on the plane or typing answers at a crowded kiosk.
The process takes just a few minutes on your phone or computer. The time you save at the airport can be significant – up to 50% faster.
Remember the slogan: Declare Before You Fly. Save Time When You Land.
For the most current information, always refer to the official CBSA website at canada.ca/arrivecan.
Slogan: Declare Before You Fly. Save Time When You Land.
Disclaimer: This article is based on official information from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) as of April 2026. Participating airports, app features, and processes are subject to change. For the most current information, visit canada.ca/arrivecan or contact the CBSA directly.