Amtrak marked a milestone in North American passenger rail on June 10, 2026 as customers traveling from Vancouver, B.C. on the Amtrak Cascades can now complete U.S. preclearance before boarding. The new experience at Vancouver Pacific Central Station creates a more streamlined experience for customers traveling into the United States.
While preclearance has long been available at select airports and at Victoria Ferry Terminal in British Columbia (Canada), Pacific Central Station becomes the first rail station in North America to offer this capability, representing a new chapter for rail travel.
“This is a historic moment for passenger rail in North America,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “Launching the continent’s first rail preclearance facility reflects what’s possible when strong partners come together with a shared focus on the customer experience. This improvement makes cross-border travel faster, easier, and more seamless from the moment passengers arrive at the station.”
Delivered in partnership with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), VIA Rail, and numerous agencies in both countries that include U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Canada Border Services Agency, Transport Canada, and Public Safety Canada, the preclearance process consolidates inspection, security, and customs procedures into a single step prior to departure.
Trains departing Vancouver will now proceed directly into the United States without stopping for en route border screening at Blaine, Wash., enhancing overall trip quality and operational efficiency. The ride from Vancouver to Seattle takes an average of four hours.
To support preclearance, targeted upgrades were completed within the station to accommodate enhanced customs and security operations. The launch also aligns with growing international travel demand ahead of major global sporting events in the Pacific Northwest. Both Seattle and Vancouver host FIFA soccer games. Vancouver is hosting seven matches, and Seattle is hosting six.
Passengers are however requested to arrive at least an hour before departure to complete immigration procedures.
Looking ahead, Amtrak Cascades customers will continue to benefit from ongoing investment designed to improve comfort, reliability, and the overall travel experience, including the introduction of new Airo trainsets later this year.
