CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency)
The CBSA, Canada Border Services Agency, is the federal agency that manages Canada's borders. Its officers decide whether travelers can enter Canada at airports, land crossings, and seaports, and it enforces immigration law inside Canada, including removals.
Its role in immigration
- At the border: examines travelers, checks documents like a TRV, eTA, or PR card, and decides how long visitors may stay.
- Permits at entry: some people, such as US citizens using CUSMA, can get work permits at a port of entry.
- Enforcement: investigates, detains, and removes people who are inadmissible or have removal orders.
CBSA is separate from IRCC, which decides most applications. Since December 2024, most temporary residents can no longer get work or study permits by flagpoling. See Canada visit options and inadmissibility.
Frequently asked questions
Can a CBSA officer refuse me with a valid visa?
Yes. A visa does not guarantee entry; the officer decides at the border.
Is CBSA part of IRCC?
No. They are separate federal bodies that work together.
Can I request my CBSA records?
Yes, through an access to information or privacy request to CBSA.
Official sources
- CBSA: Official sitecbsa-asfc.gc.ca
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.