Arriving at YVR
Welcome to Vancouver! Arriving at YVR is a straightforward process. Your journey through the terminal will depend entirely on where your flight originated: from a Canadian city, or from an international or U.S. destination.
Connecting to another flight?
If Vancouver is not your final destination, your process will look a little different. Please visit our Connecting Through YVR page for step-by-step instructions.
Arriving at Airport South, including the South Terminal? Please visit our South Terminal page for more information.
Travelling from a Canadian Destination (Domestic)
If you are arriving from a Canadian city, you will typically arrive at the A, B, or C Gates.
- Disembark → Domestic Baggage Claim → Exit Terminal
- Simply follow the overhead signs to the Domestic Baggage Claim area.
Travelling from an International or U.S. Destination
If you are arriving from outside of Canada, you will typically arrive at the D or E Gates and are subject to customs and immigration by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
- Disembark → Canada Customs (CBSA) → International Baggage Claim → Exit Terminal
Step 1. Disembark and proceed to Canada Customs
Follow the overhead arrivals signs to the Customs Hall.
Step 2. The Customs Clearance and Immigration Process
You will complete your customs declaration using one of our Primary Inspection Kiosks (PIK). The kiosk will print a receipt that serves as your customs declaration. Please hold onto this receipt until you exit the International Arrivals area.
Expedited Customs Programs:You can speed up your journey through the Customs Hall using the following programs:
- Advance Declaration (ArriveCAN): Submit your customs and immigration declaration up to 72 hours in advance to access express lanes.
- NEXUS / Global Entry: Dedicated kiosks and lanes are available for priority program members.
Once you complete your kiosk declaration, you will be directed to a customs officer who will review your receipt and direct you into the baggage claim area and or following areas if applicable.
If you are a newcomer to Canada requiring a study or work permit, or Visa, this must be processed at the immigration office located inside the Customs Hall, as YVR is your first port of entry into Canada. Further details regarding the Visa and permit process can be found on the Canadian Government’s Immigration and Citizenship website.
You are required by law to declare all food, plant, and animal products you bring into Canada. If you have exceeded your personal exemption limits, you are subject to duties and taxes, payable at the cashier located within the baggage claim area. Further details can be found on CBSA’s Declaration and Duty websites.
Step 3. International Baggage Claim
After clearing customs, proceed to the International Baggage Claim area to reunite with your luggage.
- Note: Oversized items and pets will be delivered directly to Carousel 35. If you need assistance with your luggage, Porters Services are located inside the baggage hall to help.
Step 4. Exiting
Once you have retrieved your bags, follow the exit signs into the International Arrivals Greeting Area. Here, you will easily find ride-hailing services, bus transfers, tour information, cruise representatives, and directions to the rental car facilities.
- Verify Your Baggage:Many bags look alike! Please double-check the name on your baggage tags to ensure you are taking the correct luggage before leaving the carousel.
- No Re-Entry:Ensure you have collected all your belongings before exiting the baggage hall. Once you walk through the exit doors, you cannot return. If you leave a bag behind, you will need to contact your airline for support.
- Delayed or Damaged Baggage:If your bag is delayed or damaged in transit, file a report immediately with your final arriving airline before leaving the airport. Please check your specific airline’s policy, as reporting deadlines and claim procedures vary.
- Airport Pickup:If you are coordinating an airport pickup, please allow approximately 30-45 minutes to complete the customs process and collect your checked baggage.