U.S. Visitors to Canada Face New Border Regulations Starting September 2026 as Remote Area Border Crossing Program is Phased Out

Published on December 27, 2025

Canada, renowned for its vast landscapes and welcoming border communities, is set to make a significant shift in its border control processes. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) recently announced the termination of the long-standing Remote Area Border Crossing (RABC) Program, a change that will affect thousands of U.S. travelers, particularly those crossing into Canada through remote areas. Starting in September 2026, the current permit-based entry system will be replaced with a telephone reporting procedure, requiring travelers to check in with Canadian authorities after crossing the border. This marks a major shift in how visitors from the United States will enter Canada, especially for those who use these lesser-known routes.

The End of the Remote Area Border Crossing Program: What It Means for U.S. Travelers

The RABC Program, which has been in place for many years, has allowed travelers, mostly U.S. residents, to cross into Canada via specified remote locations without needing to stop at a staffed port of entry. This program has been particularly popular with residents of border communities in northern Ontario and southern Manitoba, who frequently use these routes to visit family, engage in recreational activities, or manage business interests across the border.

However, as of September 14, 2026, travelers entering these areas will no longer have the option to use the RABC permits for unstaffed entry. Instead, they will need to either report to a CBSA station or use a designated telephone reporting system to comply with Canada’s border regulations. The decision to end the RABC Program was made following a review by the CBSA, which cited concerns about enhancing border integrity, improving security, and aligning the process with U.S. customs procedures.

Key Changes in Border Crossings for U.S. Travelers

• Telephone Reporting Procedure: All travelers entering remote areas of northern Ontario and southern Manitoba will be required to check in with the CBSA via a designated phone line or visit a staffed port of entry.
• Geographical Areas Affected: The change will primarily impact travelers entering Canada through the Northwest Angle Area, Pigeon River/Lake of the Woods, the Canadian shore of Lake Superior, and Sault Ste. Marie.
• Transition Period: Existing RABC permits will remain valid until September 13, 2026, giving travelers ample time to adjust to the new procedures.
• Enforcement Actions: Travelers who fail to comply with the new reporting rules could face enforcement actions under the Customs Act.

The Impact on Local Communities and Border Regions

For many years, the RABC Program has been an essential aspect of life for residents of Canadian and U.S. border communities. Over 11,000 U.S. citizens currently use the program each year, with about 90% of participants being American. These border crossings are often used by property owners, small business operators, and recreational travelers who enjoy the natural beauty and relaxed pace of life along the Canada-U.S. border.

The cancellation of the program has raised concerns, particularly among local officials and U.S. lawmakers who argue that the change could negatively affect tourism, recreation, and small businesses that rely on cross-border traffic. Some lawmakers have expressed worry that the new reporting requirements may burden travelers, particularly in areas where public infrastructure is sparse.

U.S. Lawmakers’ Concerns

U.S. lawmakers from border states, including Minnesota Congressman Pete Stauber, North Dakota Senator Kevin Cramer, and Michigan Congressman Jack Bergman, have voiced their concerns over the potential negative economic impact on border communities. These lawmakers have sent letters to the Canadian government, urging a reconsideration of the decision or the implementation of a more flexible solution that allows for easier access while maintaining security.

These concerns are especially pertinent to areas where cross-border businesses thrive, and where the local economy depends heavily on the flow of people and goods between the two nations.

How the New Border Regulations Align with U.S. Customs Procedures

The move to end the RABC Program is part of a broader effort by both the Canadian and U.S. governments to harmonize border entry processes. The new system is designed to align more closely with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) procedures for travelers crossing into the United States via remote areas. Under U.S. rules, travelers must report to U.S. CBP at specified points of entry when crossing through remote locations, which is similar to the changes now being implemented by the CBSA.

The Future of Remote Border Crossings: What’s Next?

The Canadian government has stated that the transition to the new system will be gradual, providing time for local communities, Indigenous groups, and businesses to prepare for the change. As part of this process, the CBSA will consult with local communities to identify designated telephone reporting sites and ensure that travelers have sufficient access to the necessary resources for compliance.

This shift in policy comes at a time when both countries are reevaluating their border security measures to address evolving risks. The CBSA has made it clear that the decision to end the RABC Program is based on an internal review that considered factors such as security, operational efficiency, and the changing border environment.

The Path Forward for U.S.-Canada Border Travelers

As the new regulations come into effect, both Canadian and U.S. travelers will need to adjust to a new reality at the border. For U.S. citizens traveling to remote northern locations in Canada, the process of crossing the border will become more structured and regulated. This could lead to longer wait times and more complex logistics for travelers, particularly those crossing into more remote areas that lack nearby CBSA stations.

However, the Canadian government has promised to work closely with local businesses and communities to make this transition as smooth as possible. The consultation with Indigenous groups and local law enforcement partners will be crucial in ensuring that the changes meet the needs of both travelers and residents of the affected areas.

Conclusion: Preparing for the Change

The end of the Remote Area Border Crossing Program marks a significant shift in Canada-U.S. border relations, especially for those who rely on these remote crossings for their daily lives and business operations. With September 2026 fast approaching, it is essential for travelers, businesses, and local communities to familiarize themselves with the new reporting procedures. While the move is designed to enhance border security and align more closely with U.S. protocols, it also brings challenges for small border communities that depend on cross-border traffic. As the transition period unfolds, travelers will need to stay informed and prepared for the changes ahead.