The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is preparing to roll out a new artificial intelligence system, called the Traveller Compliance Indicator (TCI), to help officers decide which travellers may need extra inspection. The tool, built on five years of traveller data, assigns a “compliance score” to everyone entering Canada. Those flagged as higher risk could face longer questioning or secondary examination.
What It Means for Newcomers
For most travellers, CBSA says the tool will make border crossings faster by reducing unnecessary inspections. But for newcomers, international students, and visitors without permanent status, the stakes are higher. A referral to secondary inspection could lead not only to inconvenience, but also to questions about admissibility. Unlike Canadian citizens, non-citizens can be denied entry if officers uncover issues during an inspection.
Why Experts Are Concerned
AI tools rely on past data, and experts warn that this can reinforce existing patterns of scrutiny. If certain groups, such as immigrants or visitors from specific countries, were historically checked more often, the system may unfairly continue those patterns. Critics also point out that even if final decisions rest with officers, an AI “flag” can heavily influence judgment.
CBSA’s Traveller Modernization Plan
This initiative is part of a larger border modernization effort. In its 2023–24 Departmental Plan, CBSA said:
“The CBSA is also pursuing a predictive analytics approach through efforts to generate a Traveller Compliance Indicator for travellers entering Canada. The objective is to introduce a risk-based compliance model to support decision-making by frontline officers… thereby reducing the likelihood of referrals for compliant travellers based on their history of compliance with border requirements.”
What’s Next
The TCI has already been tested at six land ports of entry. CBSA plans to introduce it at all land borders by the end of 2027, with air and marine ports to follow. The agency has invested $15.3 million in the system and expects it will cost about $700,000 per year to maintain.
For newcomers, this development is worth watching closely. While the tool is designed to make the border more efficient, it also raises questions about fairness, transparency, and how mistakes could impact those without secure status in Canada.
What You Can Do to Prepare
Although the full rollout of the Traveller Compliance Indicator (TCI) isn’t expected until 2027, here’s how newcomers, workers, students, and visitors can adapt once the system is in place:
Carry complete documentation: Have all travel documents, study/work permits etc, and proof of funds ready and easily accessible. Missing or incomplete paperwork can trigger additional questions.
Double-check your status: Avoid traveling close to your status expiry date, or make sure you have a clear renewal plan in place before you go.
Be honest and consistent: Answer officers’ questions clearly and truthfully. Inconsistencies between what you say and what’s in your paperwork can raise flags.
Stay informed: Keep an eye on CBSA updates about the TCI rollout. Knowing what to expect will help you feel prepared and confident at the border.
Consider legal advice if needed: If you’ve had prior immigration complications or refusals, consulting an immigration professional before traveling could save you time and stress.
