Navigating security and customs at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) can be one of the most stressful parts of your travel experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the airport or traveling internationally. However, understanding the process ahead of time can make the journey through security and customs smoother and faster.
Toronto Pearson is Canada’s busiest airport, handling millions of passengers each year. As a result, airport security and customs procedures are designed to be efficient while ensuring safety and compliance with travel regulations. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or connecting to another flight, here’s what to expect when passing through security and customs at Toronto Airport.
1. Arriving at Security: What You Need to Know
Before you even approach the security checkpoint, it’s essential to prepare. Toronto Pearson has multiple terminals, but the security process generally follows the same guidelines across all terminals.
Documents Ready
- Passport/ID: Ensure your travel documents are readily accessible. International travelers will need to show their passport, while Canadian citizens may only require a government-issued ID.
- Boarding Pass: Have your boarding pass on hand to present at the security checkpoint. Most airlines now allow you to use digital boarding passes, but printed copies work as well.
Tip: Keep your travel documents in an easily accessible pocket or bag to streamline the process and avoid delays.
Security Screening Process
Once you’re at the security checkpoint, here’s what you can expect during screening:
- Security Personnel: You’ll be greeted by security officers who will direct you to a screening line. They may ask you to remove your shoes, belt, and jacket, as well as take out any laptops, tablets, or liquids.
- Carry-On Screening: Items in your carry-on luggage will need to be scanned through an X-ray machine. Be sure to follow the instructions from security officers regarding what to place in the bin.
- Prohibited Items: Be aware that items like sharp objects, large bottles of liquids (over 100ml), and other restricted items will be confiscated if not declared. You can check your airline’s guidelines for a list of prohibited items.
Security Technology
Toronto Pearson uses Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT), a full-body scanner that provides a non-invasive way to check for concealed items on passengers. If the AIT detects something unusual, you may be selected for additional screening, such as a pat-down or additional scanning.
Tip: If you’re selected for a body scan or extra screening, don’t be alarmed. This is a random security procedure and is not meant to cause concern. It’s all part of ensuring safety for all passengers.
2. The Customs Process: What You Need to Know
Once you’ve passed through security, international travelers must go through immigration and customs before being allowed into Canada. The process is efficient, but it’s important to be prepared and know what to expect.
Immigration Control
When you arrive at immigration, you’ll need to present your passport, visa (if required), and any necessary travel documents to an immigration officer. Canadian citizens and residents use automated kiosks to speed up the process. Here’s what you need to know:
- Electronic Passport Control (e-Gate): Citizens of several countries, including Canada, the U.S., and many others, can use the ePassport system. This allows faster processing through automated kiosks by scanning your passport and taking a biometric photo.
- Visa and Customs Declaration Form: Depending on your nationality, you might also need to provide additional documentation, such as a visa or a Customs Declaration Form. Make sure to complete the form (which can often be done online in advance) if required.
- Biometric Screening: In some cases, you may be asked to provide fingerprints and a photograph as part of the immigration process.
Tip: Keep all necessary documents handy, including your visa, if required, and have your ArriveCAN confirmation (a mandatory app for travelers entering Canada) ready if applicable.
Customs: Declare Your Goods
Once through immigration, you will head to the Customs area. This is where you will declare any items you’re bringing into Canada, such as food, alcohol, or large sums of currency. Customs officers may ask questions about your travel purpose and check your baggage.
- Green or Red Channel: At Pearson, passengers must choose either the green or red channel:
- Green Channel: If you have nothing to declare (i.e., you’re not bringing in any restricted items), you’ll proceed to the green channel.
- Red Channel: If you have items to declare, such as expensive items, gifts, or food, you’ll proceed to the red channel.
- Exemptions and Limits: Canada allows certain duty-free exemptions for goods, such as alcohol and tobacco. Be sure to check the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) website to understand the exemptions and limits that apply to you.
- Random Inspections: Customs officers may select passengers randomly for further inspection. If selected, you will be asked to open your bags for a more detailed search. This is completely normal and not an indication that you have done something wrong.
Tip: If you’re unsure about an item, it’s always best to declare it to avoid fines or penalties. Be honest with customs officers, as penalties for failing to declare goods can be severe.
3. What Happens If You’re Selected for Additional Screening?
In rare instances, travelers may be chosen for additional screening, which may involve further questioning or a manual inspection of luggage. Here’s what you can expect:
- Pat-Down Screening: If an item triggers an alert during the screening process, you might be selected for a pat-down. This is a routine procedure designed to ensure no prohibited items are missed.
- Additional Luggage Inspection: If your carry-on or checked luggage is flagged for inspection, it will be examined more thoroughly by customs officers. While this may be inconvenient, it’s an essential part of the security process.
Tip: Always remain calm and cooperative if you’re selected for additional screening. This will help the process go smoothly and ensure you get to your destination without unnecessary delays.
4. Navigating the Duty-Free Shops and Services
After passing through customs, you may encounter duty-free shops where you can purchase alcohol, perfumes, cosmetics, and other goods without paying local taxes or duties. Duty-free shopping can be a great opportunity to pick up gifts or souvenirs at a discount.
- Duty-Free Restrictions: Be aware that while you can purchase items duty-free at the airport, there are still limits on the quantity of alcohol, tobacco, and other goods you can bring into the country. Ensure you’re within the allowed limits to avoid complications at customs.
Conclusion: Smooth Sailing Through Security and Customs at Toronto Pearson
Although the security and customs process at Toronto Pearson may seem daunting at first, it’s quite manageable with the right preparation. By keeping your documents ready, understanding the security and customs procedures, and staying calm, you’ll pass through both security and customs smoothly. With these tips, your arrival at Toronto Pearson can be stress-free, allowing you to start your trip to Canada with ease.