FAQs

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• How do I check in?

  There are a few ways to check in at Toronto Pearson:

  • With airline staff at a traditional check-in counter
  • Check-in kiosks – located in both terminals (subject to airline availability)
  • Web-based and mobile check-in which is recommended for a streamlined experience (subject to airline availability)

  To see which options your airline offers, please contact your airline. 

• How many bags may I check-in and carry onto my aircraft? Or whom do I contact?
  Carry-on rules vary from airline to airline. For all baggage related information, please contact your airline, or visit their website.
• What items am I permitted to carry on board or pack in my checked baggage? Which items are not permitted?
  Restricted items are subject to change. For a complete list of permitted and non-permitted items please contact the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) at 1-888-294-2202.
• If I have an item that is not permitted through security screening, what are my options?

  There are a few options:

  • You may discard the item.
  • You may put the item in your checked baggage.
  • You may store the item at Travel Store/Samsonite (Terminal 1, Terminal 3).
  • You may wish to send the item by mail via the Travel Store/Samsonite (Terminal 1, Terminal 3).

  For rates and hours of operation please contact the Travel Store:

  Terminal 1: (416) 776-1313
  Terminal 3: (905) 612-6677

• What can I bring into Canada?

  For complete information about what can and cannot be brought into Canada please see Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) or call Border Information Service.

  	Service in English or French
  Calls within Canada Toll Free	1-800-461-9999
  Calls outside Canada Long distance charges apply	1-204-983-3500 1-506-636-5064
  TTY within Canada For those with hearing or speech impairments	1-866-335-3237

   

  Questions regarding human health or the importation of animals and/or plants should be directed to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) at 1-800-442-2342.
  

• How early should I arrive before my flight to the United States?

  Currently, Transport Canada recommends that U.S. bound travellers arrive 3 hours before to their flight to allow for security screening and U.S. Customs processing.

• What do I need to know about full body scanners?

  Full body scanners are in use in Terminals 1 and 3. Customers travelling to the United States may be required to pass through a scanner as part of the U.S. security screening process.

• What documents do I need to travel to the United States?

  In order to travel to the U.S. or return to Canada, a valid passport or other permissible document (such as a NEXUS/Global Entry Card card) is required.

  For information regarding travel documents, please contact your airline. Our Airline Listing can help you find your carrier.

  You may also contact U.S. Immigration at 1-800-375-5283 or U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at (905) 676-2606.

• Can I bring dairy products into the United States?

  For information regarding the transportation of dairy products, please contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at (905) 676-2606.

• What are the current carry-on rules and regulations?
  The CATSA website offers travel tips with regards to items you are permitted to take in your carry on and checked luggage; see the CATSA - Tips for Travel.
  
  Familiarize yourself with your airlines checked and carry-on baggage policy before you travel by visiting their websites or calling your airline directly. See the Airline and Destination page for airline contact information.
  
  Please keep in mind that there are still restrictions on liquids, gels, and aerosols. Remember not to pack them in your carry-on luggage.
• What is Automated Passport Clearance (APC)?

  Passengers with a Canadian or U.S. passport can swipe their passport at a kiosk, complete the declaration process and have their photo taken. A receipt will then be printed for presentation to a U.S. CBP Officer. There are currently a total of 40 Automated Passport Control kiosks at Toronto Pearson and no membership fee is required. Learn more on our Automated Passport Clearance page.

• Do I need a Travel VISA?

  Canadian federal inspection services are provided by Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). We recommend that you contact CBSA directly with your transit visa inquiry; they may be reached as follows:

  Canada Border Services Agency

  • by telephone at (905) 676-3640, (204) 983-3500 or (506) 636-5064
  • by e-mail at CBSA-ASFC@canada.gc.ca 
  • or by mail at Canada Border Services Agency; P.O. Box 40;Toronto AMF, ON L5P 1A2; Canada

  Visit Find out if you need a visa for more detailed information.