VANCOUVER, B.C. – Amtrak marked a milestone in North American passenger rail on June 10, 2026, as customers traveling from Vancouver, B.C., on the Amtrak Cascades can now complete U.S. preclearance before boarding. While preclearance has long been available at select airports, Pacific Central Station becomes the first rail station in North America to offer this capability, representing a new chapter for rail travel.
Trains departing Vancouver will now proceed directly into the United States without stopping for en route border screening, enhancing overall trip quality and operational efficiency. To support preclearance, targeted upgrades were completed within the station to accommodate enhanced customs and security operations.
This is an exciting announcement for Washington state and our friends in Canada. Now that passengers and trains can do preclearance in Vancouver, B.C., instead of processing at the border, it makes train service more convenient and reliable for everyone.
– U.S. Senator Patty Murray
Delivered in partnership with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), VIA Rail, and numerous agencies in both countries that include U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Canada Border Services Agency, Transport Canada and Public Safety Canada, the preclearance process consolidates inspection, security and customs procedures into a single step prior to departure.
Amtrak Cascades service is funded primarily by ticket revenues, with the balance of operating costs paid for by the states of Washington and Oregon.
Published June 11, 2026.
Amtrak established the Great American Stations Project in 2006 to educate communities on the benefits of redeveloping train stations, offer tools to community leaders to preserve their stations, and provide the appropriate Amtrak resources.
Amtrak is seizing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform rail and Retrain Travel. By modernizing, enhancing and expanding trains, stations and infrastructure, Amtrak is meeting the rising demand for train travel. Amtrak offers unforgettable experiences to more than 500 destinations across 46 states and parts of Canada. Learn more at