Amtrak customers traveling from Vancouver, British Columbia, on the Amtrak Cascades can now complete U.S. preclearance before boarding.
While preclearance has long been available at select airports, Pacific Central Station becomes the first rail station in North America to offer this capability, representing a new chapter for rail travel.
Delivered in partnership with the Washington State Department of Transportation, 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.
“This is a historic moment for passenger rail in North America,” Amtrak President Roger Harris said. “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.”
Trains departing Vancouver will now proceed directly into the United States without stopping for en route border screening, enhancing overall trip quality and operational efficiency. 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. Looking ahead, Amtrak Cascades plans to introduce new Airo trainsets later this year.
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