Passengers travelling on Amtrak Cascades services from Vancouver can now complete U.S. border formalities before boarding.
Amtrak has launched North America’s first rail preclearance facility, marking a significant milestone for international passenger rail travel between Canada and the United States.
The new facility at Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station enables passengers travelling on Amtrak Cascades services to complete U.S. customs, immigration and security procedures before boarding their train. Once cleared, trains can travel directly into the United States without stopping for additional border processing.
The initiative is designed to simplify the travel experience while improving operational efficiency on one of the Pacific Northwest’s most important cross-border rail routes.
Vancouver rail preclearance transforms cross-border journeys
While preclearance facilities have operated at airports for many years, Pacific Central Station becomes the first rail station in North America to offer the service.
The project was delivered through a partnership involving Amtrak, the Washington State Department of Transportation, VIA Rail, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Canada Border Services Agency, Transport Canada and Public Safety Canada.
Under the new arrangement, inspection, security screening and customs checks are completed before departure, reducing delays and providing a smoother journey for passengers travelling between Vancouver and destinations in the United States.
The launch comes as travel demand continues to grow across the Pacific Northwest, particularly ahead of major international sporting events that will bring visitors to both Vancouver and Seattle.
Roger Harris described the facility as a historic moment for passenger rail in North America, highlighting the benefits of cross-border cooperation and customer-focused innovation.
The introduction of preclearance is also expected to improve timetable reliability by removing the need for trains to stop at the border for additional inspections.
Investment supports future growth
The launch forms part of a wider programme of investment across the Amtrak Cascades corridor.
According to project partners, infrastructure upgrades were completed at Pacific Central Station to accommodate the enhanced customs and security facilities required for preclearance operations.
Future improvements are also planned, including the introduction of new Amtrak Airo trainsets later this year. The new fleet will provide additional seating capacity, improved passenger amenities and enhanced comfort for travellers.
Julie Meredith said the region is expected to see record levels of rail demand in the coming years, supported by growing tourism and major international events.
Political leaders on both sides of the border also welcomed the initiative, noting its potential to strengthen economic ties, support tourism and improve connectivity between communities across the Pacific Northwest.
The facility represents a new chapter for international rail travel in North America and could serve as a model for future cross-border passenger rail services.
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