Should U.S. Border Officers Have These Powers on Canadian Soil?

Official title: Independent Review of the Preclearance Act, 2016

Open Legislation Justice & Rights Transportation

Canada is reviewing the law that lets U.S. border officers screen travellers at Canadian airports before they fly to the U.S. This is called "preclearance" - you clear U.S. customs in Canada, so you land in the U.S. as a domestic passenger. The government wants to know if the rules are working and what should change.

Why This Matters

Ever flown to the U.S. from Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal? You've been through preclearance. U.S. officers questioned you on Canadian soil. This review asks: do they have too much power? Too little? Are your rights protected? If you've had a bad experience - or a great one - this is your chance to say so.

What Could Change

The final report goes directly to Parliament. It could recommend expanding or limiting what U.S. officers can do in Canada. New rules might change how searches work, what happens if you withdraw from preclearance, or how complaints are handled. The law itself could be amended.

Key Issues

Do U.S. preclearance officers have appropriate powers when screening travellers in Canada?
Are Canadian travellers' rights adequately protected during preclearance?
What are the obligations of airports and travellers under the current law?
What improvements should be made to preclearance legislation?

How to Participate

Complete the online feedback form by January 16, 2026.
Email your feedback to preclearancereview-examenprecontrole@intervistas.com by the deadline.
Review the Preclearance Act, 2016 and background information to inform your submission.

Submit Your Input

Complete The Preclearance Review Survey Draft Email

Email Template

Dear InterVISTAS Review Team,

I am writing to provide feedback on the Independent Review of the Preclearance Act, 2016.

My overall view on preclearance:
[Do you support the current system? Have concerns? Share your position and why.]

My experience with preclearance:
[Have you gone through preclearance at a Canadian airport? What was your experience?]

On U.S. officer powers in Canada:
[Your thoughts on what U.S. preclearance officers should or should not be able to do]

On traveller rights and protections:
[Are current protections adequate? What would you change?]

Suggested improvements:
[What changes would make preclearance work better?]

Thank you for considering my input.

Sincerely,
[Your name]

Questions Being Asked (5)

What are your views on the legislative framework of the Preclearance Act?
What are your views on the authorities of U.S. Preclearance Officers?
What are your views on the authorities of Canadian Border Services Officers?
What are your views on facility and traveller obligations?
What potential improvements would you suggest for preclearance legislation?