Traveling to Vancouver

Air

If you're arriving by air, you'll most likely be flying into Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Located just 25 minutes from downtown, YVR is consistently rated one of the best airports in North America. There are more than a dozen international flights in and out of YVR every day, with 22 bound for the United States. Air Canada is your best choice to Vancouver with the most non-stop flights and access from over 190 cities worldwide.

Train

You may want to consider making the journey part of the adventure by taking the train to Vancouver! Riding the rails offers sightseeing at its finest, allowing you to watch the beauty of B.C. from the comfort of the observation lounge or dining car. From Seattle to Vancouver you'll witness some of our continent's most spectacular natural attractions.  For just $42.00/one way you'll enjoy wide, reclining seats, laptop outlets and bike racks on these sleek European trains. Relax in the Bistro Car, which features fresh, regional cuisine, wine, microbrews, and the coffees Seattle made famous.  To truly experience the luxury of travel on Amtrak Cascades, book a seat in Business Class for $98.00/one way. You'll enjoy a fully refundable ticket if canceled prior to departure, 25% point bonus for Amtrak Guest Rewards members, priority boarding and deboarding, seating in a dedicated car, wider seats with extra legroom, a coupon for $3 off any menu item and access to the Metropolitan Lounge in Portland.  For more information and to book your trip on Amtrak Cascades — please visit AmtrakCascades.com 

Identification requirements for United States citizens and international visitors

All U.S. citizens and international travelers must carry valid passport and a valid visa (if necessary) when entering Canada. A passport is the only reliable and universally-accepted travel and identification document for the purpose of international travel. International transport companies, such as airlines, must make sure that travelers have proper, valid travel documents. If you do not have the proper documents, you may be delayed or unable to board the plane.

When you enter Canada, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and a valid visa, if you are arriving from a country for which one is required. Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website to learn more about what travel documents are required.

Citizens of the U.S. who are members of the NEXUS/Global Entry programs may present their membership card to the CBSA as proof of identification and as a document that denotes citizenship, when arriving by air, land, or marine modes. Permanent residents of the U.S. who are members of the NEXUS/Global Entry programs must travel with a passport and proof of permanent residence, and may be asked to present these documents to the officer upon arrival at the border.

Travel document requirements are subject to change. Therefore, to ensure that you have the correct documents to travel to Canada, please consult the Canada Border Services Agency site for current requirements. In addition, be sure to check the U.S. Customs and Border Protection site for current requirements for re-entering the United States after your visit to Canada. 

For more information on Vancouver and tips for travel to Canada visit Tourism Vancouver.