CBSA - Blueprint 2020 Report - December 2017
Wireless Handheld Devices Project

In line with an earlier commitment to establish a coordinated entry and exit information system, and to provide a streamlined approach utilizing technology to facilitate low-risk travellers and goods into the country, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has begun deploying wireless handheld devices to smaller ports of entry with limited infrastructure capabilities, as well as at larger ports that have a business need to expedite certain conveyance types. These efforts began in June 2017, and are projected for completion in January 2018 when 72 ports of entry will have been equipped with the wireless handheld devices.

Initially, in reviewing the CBSA’s ability to capture entry information, the Agency determined that many smaller land border ports did not have the ability to process travellers expeditiously or perform the requisite risk assessment without returning to the office. Larger ports also identified challenges in processing conveyances without disembarking all travellers. In response to these challenges, Programs Branch began looking for a mobile technology that would ensure a higher level of data capture, better facilitate land border traffic, and provide Border Services Officers with real-time risk assessment information.

The feedback has been positive from the frontline officers who have incorporated the wireless handheld technology into traveller processing. Several ports have already requested additional devices based on their efficacy and ability to process travellers expeditiously.

With the introduction of the wireless handheld devices, the CBSA has positioned itself well to meet its bilateral commitment under the Entry/Exit Initiative with the U.S. Learn more about how the wireless handheld devices work in real time.

Date modified:

2017-12-08