Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is the name of the federal agency that manages Canada's border.

CBSA plays a major role in Canada's immigration system. This CanadaVisa page provides an overview of CBSA's role.

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CBSA's Role in Canada's Immigration System

The mission of CBSA is to protect the security and prosperity of Canada by managing the flow of people and goods to and from Canada.

CBSA falls under the Department of Public Safety.

The Minister of Public Safety shares responsibility with the Minister of Immigration and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in enforcing the Immigration and Refugees Protection Act (IRPA).

Among the CBSA's responsibilities include ensuring foreign nationals comply with IRPA.

A CBSA officer will greet you when arrive at a Canadian Port of Entry (POE). When you meet a CBSA officer at a POE, they will screen you to ensure you comply with Canada's immigration, security, and health laws. If the CBSA officer believes the purpose of your entry is legal and that you meet screening requirements, they will allow you to enter Canada.

IRPA is among the more than 90 acts, regulations, and international agreements that CBSA enforces.

In all, the CBSA manages 117 land-border crossings and operates at 13 international airports. It also carries out marine operations at major Canadian ports. Its officers also perform operations at 27 rail sites.

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