What is the NEXUS programme and how can it benefit me?

NEXUS is a trusted traveller programme designed to speed up border crossings for low risk, pre-approved travellers crossing between Canada and the United States. Programme members receive substantial benefits including dedicated vehicle processing lanes at 18 designated land border crossings, NEXUS eGates at major international airports in Canada, access to Transportation Security Administration Pre-Check lines at over 200 participating US airports, and expedited processing at marine reporting locations. At the Ambassador Bridge specifically, NEXUS members can use dedicated express lanes with significantly shorter waiting times, typically around 20 minutes even during busy periods, compared to the standard 30 to 40 minute wait in regular lines. To use NEXUS lanes at the Ambassador Bridge, you must have activated your physical NEXUS membership card and carry it with you. Mobile or digital credentials are not accepted, and the physical card must be scanned at the proximity reader when entering the lane. Applying for NEXUS requires submission of a valid passport, proof of residency, and typically costs in the region of USD 50 for a five year membership.

What questions will immigration and customs officers ask me when crossing?

Customs and immigration officers at the Ambassador Bridge are trained to ask a series of standard questions designed to assess your admissibility and verify your stated purpose for travel. Common questions include your intended destination and how long you plan to stay, your employment status and workplace, whether you own your home, the amount of cash you are carrying, and details about your travel companions including personal relationships. If you are crossing into the United States for business purposes, expect additional questions about your employer, your role, and what you will be doing whilst in the country. You may also be asked whether you are transporting weapons, drugs, or alcohol, and whether you have visited any farms or had contact with animals before crossing. Remain calm and answer all questions truthfully and directly. Most officers will complete the interview within a few minutes for straightforward cases. If an officer suspects you may be inadmissible or has additional concerns, you may be referred to secondary inspection for further questioning and vehicle search.

What happens if I am sent to secondary inspection?

Secondary inspection is a more thorough examination that does not necessarily indicate serious wrongdoing. If an officer refers you to secondary inspection, you will be directed to pull your vehicle aside and enter an inspection area. You will be required to exit your vehicle, and border officers will conduct a detailed interview and physical search of your vehicle and belongings. These inspections may take anywhere from 20 minutes to several hours depending on the circumstances. Officers may remove items from your vehicle for inspection and may question you extensively about your travel plans, finances, relationships, and reasons for crossing the border. Common reasons for secondary inspection include missing or invalid documents, suspected misrepresentation or fraud, previous immigration violations, concerns about your stated purpose of travel, or simply as part of routine random screening where approximately every tenth vehicle is selected. Secondary inspection does not prevent you from eventually crossing into either Canada or the United States, though it may delay your journey considerably. Being cooperative, honest, and patient is advisable during the process.

What alcohol and tobacco can I bring across the border?

Customs allowances for alcohol and tobacco depend on your citizenship, your length of stay in the other country, and your age. Canadians returning to Canada after spending more than 48 hours in the United States may bring up to CAD 800 worth of goods duty free, which includes alcohol and tobacco within prescribed limits. For alcohol specifically, you may import one of the following: up to 1.5 litres of wine (approximately two 750ml bottles), up to 1.14 litres of liquor (one standard large bottle), or up to 8.5 litres of beer or ale (approximately 24 cans or bottles of 355ml each). For tobacco, Canadian residents may bring 200 cigarettes (one carton), 50 non-Cuban cigars, or 200 grams of manufactured tobacco. Americans returning to the United States after spending more than 48 hours in Canada may bring USD 800 worth of goods, including up to one litre of spirits, wine, beer, or one case of beer, plus up to 200 cigarettes and 100 non-Cuban cigars. Both Canadian provinces and US states set minimum age requirements for alcohol and tobacco import, typically 18 or 19 years of age depending on the province or state.

What food, plants, and other items are prohibited when crossing the border?

Many food, plant, and animal products are prohibited or restricted at the border to protect ecosystems and prevent the introduction of foreign pests and diseases. Prohibited fresh fruits and vegetables include avocados, bananas, fresh cherries grown in Ontario, peppers, pineapples, and tomatoes. Fresh allium products such as garlic, green onions, and shallots are prohibited unless accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Raw or cooked meats, fresh dairy products, eggs, and other fresh animal products are restricted or prohibited. Plants, seeds, bulbs, houseplants, and plant cuttings are restricted and may require permits. Firewood is prohibited entirely. Surprisingly, even soiled hiking boots and gardening tools with soil attached are restricted, as they can introduce foreign soil borne pathogens. If you wish to bring pets such as dogs or cats, they must have valid rabies vaccination documentation. For dogs receiving their first rabies vaccination, a 30 day waiting period applies before crossing. If your dog is receiving a booster shot, it may cross immediately. Cats may not require rabies vaccination depending on the US state you are entering, so verify specific state requirements before crossing. Bully breeds are prohibited entry to Ontario. Always declare all food, plant, and animal items to border officers. If an item cannot enter, there are typically no penalties as long as you have declared it in advance.

Ambassador Bridge Border Canada USA 2025

Border Crossing from Canada to USA by Bridge

Up to date guide to crossing between Windsor, Canada and Detroit, USA. See opening hours, typical wait times, required documents, customs rules, transport options, and step by step procedures in both directions. Everything you need for the Windsor (Canada) ↔ Detroit (USA) border: hours, wait times, documents, customs allowances, how to cross, and transport from both sides.

Map Direction

Overview

The Ambassador Bridge stands as North America’s busiest international border crossing, spanning the Detroit River to connect Windsor, Ontario with Detroit, Michigan. This critical infrastructure handles approximately 2.86 million vehicle movements annually and facilitates 25% of all Canada-U.S. trade. Operating continuously 24/7, the bridge processes around 8,000 commercial trucks daily alongside substantial passenger traffic, making it an indispensable component of the North American supply chain.
Built as a privately-owned crossing, the Ambassador Bridge serves as a vital economic lifeline between the two nations, particularly for the automotive industry which relies heavily on just-in-time manufacturing and cross-border component shipments. The bridge features dedicated lanes for NEXUS and FAST program participants, offering expedited crossing for pre-approved travelers and commercial carriers. Despite its age and increasing congestion challenges, the bridge remains essential for regional commerce, with various improvement initiatives underway to enhance efficiency. The upcoming Gordie Howe International Bridge (expected completion in 2028) aims to complement the Ambassador Bridge by diverting approximately 30% of commercial traffic and alleviating bottlenecks during peak periods.

Public Review Sentiments

Based on total reviews found online, the Windsor Port of Entry at Ambassador Bridge presents a mixed traveler experience. Most positive reviews highlight the efficiency of NEXUS lanes for pre-approved travelers, with some reporting crossing times as short as 5-10 minutes during off-peak hours. Regular users appreciate the 24/7 availability of the crossing and the professionalism of many border agents who process travelers quickly and courteously.
However, critical feedback is significant. Many travelers report inconsistent experiences with substantial variations in processing times and officer conduct. Secondary inspection procedures are frequently cited as unnecessarily intrusive and time-consuming, with travelers describing thorough vehicle searches and extensive questioning. Peak hour congestion remains a persistent complaint, particularly during shift changes at automotive plants when wait times can exceed 30 minutes. Some reviews mention concerns about the interrogative approach of certain officers, creating an intimidating atmosphere even for travelers with proper documentation. Despite these issues, the bridge remains essential for cross-border commerce and personal travel, with many accepting occasional delays as part of international travel protocols.

Document Requirements

For International Travellers

Valid passport with at least six months validity remaining
Appropriate visa for U.S. or Canadian entry (if required)
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for air travelers to Canada (though waived for land crossings)
Work permits or residency cards if applicable
Travel itinerary and proof of accommodation
Evidence of sufficient funds for intended stay
Return transportation confirmation
Vehicle rental documentation if applicable

For Local Citizens

U.S. passport, passport card, or Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI)
Enhanced driver’s license (EDL) for land crossings only
Vehicle documentation matching the driver’s information
Declaration forms for goods and currency
Receipts for purchases made in Canada (for duty calculation)
Return ticket or evidence of ties to the U.S. if requested

Valid Canadian passport, enhanced driver’s license (EDL), or NEXUS card
Birth certificate with photo ID (less preferred, may cause delays)
Vehicle registration and proof of insurance
Parental consent letter for minors traveling without both parents
Declaration of any goods purchased abroad
Proof of funds for intended stay if requested

Crossing Procedure

From Canada Side

Approach bridge via Huron Church Road and select appropriate lane (standard, NEXUS, or Ready Lane)
Prepare documents for inspection and have declarations ready
Pay toll fee using cash (CAD/USD) or credit card
Cross the bridge toward Detroit (approximately 1.6 km)
Prepare for U.S. Customs and Border Protection inspection

From USA Side

Approach U.S. Customs pre-clearance kiosks (submit declarations electronically if available)
Present documentation to CBP officer during primary inspection
Answer all questions truthfully regarding travel purpose, length of stay, and goods
Submit to secondary inspection if selected (may include vehicle search and additional questioning)
Proceed through toll collection point
Enter Detroit via Fort Street or Interstate connections

Special Considerations

Vehicle Imports/Exports:

Temporary vehicle imports generally allowed up to 12 months with proper documentation
Permanent imports require advance arrangements and compliance with emissions standards
Commercial vehicles need carrier permits and may require pre-inspection

Goods Allowances:

Duty-free limit for Canadians: CAD$200 per person for 24+ hour stays
Alcohol limits: 1.14L wine or 8.5L beer per adult
Tobacco limits vary by country (verify current allowances)
Duty-free shops available on both ends of the bridge

Prohibited Items:

Cannabis (despite legalization in Michigan and Canada)
Firearms without proper permits and declarations
Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and plants (agricultural restrictions)
Prescription drugs outside original containers
Counterfeit merchandise

Currency Restrictions:

Amounts exceeding $10,000 CAD/USD require declaration
Failure to declare may result in 100% seizure of undeclared funds
Both cash and monetary instruments (checks, bonds) count toward this limit

Known Issues:

Huron Church Road congestion with 17 traffic lights creates bottlenecks
Speed enforcement zones (40 km/h) with automated ticketing in Windsor
Commercial vehicle backups during weekday mornings
Occasional protests or demonstrations affecting bridge access

Accommodations

Hotels and Restaurants in near Border Canada (Windsor):

Best Western Plus Waterfront Hotel (0.6 km from bridge, CAD$129/night)
Caesar’s Windsor Casino Hotel (2.1 km, luxury suites with shuttle service)
Townplace Suites by Marriott (1.5 km)
Spago Restaurant (upscale Italian dining, 2.3 km)
The Keg Steakhouse (1.8 km)
Tim Hortons (multiple locations along Huron Church Road)

Hotels and Restaurants in Near Border United States (Detroit):

Renaissance Center Marriott (3.2 km, connected via People Mover)
MotorCity Casino Hotel (6.4 km, valet parking available)
Holiday Inn Express Detroit Downtown (3.5 km)
Lafayette Coney Island (classic Detroit dining, 4.2 km)
Apparatus Room (upscale dining in historic fire station, 5.1 km)
Shake Shack (4.8 km)

Better Options Nearby:

London, Ontario (180 km west): Delta Hotels London Armouries, more diverse dining and shopping
Ann Arbor, Michigan (68 km west): Graduate Ann Arbor, vibrant college town atmosphere
Windsor city center (5 km): More accommodation options and restaurants
Detroit downtown (6 km): Full range of hotels and dining experiences

Opening Hours

Standard Hours: 24/7 continuous operation for passenger vehicles Seasonal Adjustments: None, operates year-round without seasonal changes Holiday Closures: No closures for holidays Special Hours: NEXUS lanes to Canada: Monday–Friday (06:00–23:00), Weekends/Holidays (08:00–22:00) NEXUS lanes to US: Monday–Friday (05:30–20:00), Weekends/Holidays (11:30–19:00) Commercial processing to US: Monday-Friday via FAST lanes Canadian commercial processing: 24/5 operation (closed weekends) at 4285 Industrial Drive, Windsor

Wait Time & Traffic

Exit Canada (Windsor):

Approach bridge via Huron Church Road and select appropriate lane (standard, NEXUS, or Ready Lane)
Prepare documents for inspection and have declarations ready
Pay toll fee using cash (CAD/USD) or credit card
Cross the bridge toward Detroit (approximately 1.6 km)
Prepare for U.S. Customs and Border Protection inspection

Enter United States (Detroit):

Approach U.S. Customs pre-clearance kiosks (submit declarations electronically if available)
Present documentation to CBP officer during primary inspection
Answer all questions truthfully regarding travel purpose, length of stay, and goods
Submit to secondary inspection if selected (may include vehicle search and additional questioning)
Proceed through toll collection point
Enter Detroit via Fort Street or Interstate connections

Border Facilities

Immigration Processing: Available 24/7 with additional staffing during peak periods
Customs Processing: Full service with dedicated commercial lanes (FAST) and tourist channels
Health Screening: Limited, COVID-19 testing discontinued post-2023
Services:

Restrooms: Available at both customs plazas
Food: Limited options at duty-free shops
Currency Exchange: Available at duty-free facilities with competitive rates
Duty-Free Shopping: Ambassador Duty-Free (Windsor) and Ammex (Detroit)
Information Booths: Staffed during business hours

Accessibility:

Wheelchair-accessible restrooms and inspection lanes
Auditory assistance devices for hearing-impaired travelers
Service animal accommodations
Special assistance available upon request

Official Resources

Canada Border Services Agency:

Website: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
Contact: 1-800-461-9999
Location: 780 Huron Church Road, Windsor

U.S. Customs and Border Protection:

Website: https://www.cbp.gov
Contact: (313) 226-3141
Location: Ambassador Bridge Plaza, Detroit

Travel Advisories:

Government of Canada Travel Alerts: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories
U.S. Department of State Border Information: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Canada.html
Border Wait Times (CBSA): https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/bwt-taf/menu-eng.html
Border Wait Times (CBP): https://bwt.cbp.gov

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What are the opening hours of the Ambassador Bridge?

The Ambassador Bridge operates 24 hours daily, 7 days per week, 365 days per year. There are no seasonal closures or restricted hours, making it continuously accessible to travellers and commercial vehicles at any time of day or night. This round the clock operation means you can cross whenever it suits your schedule. However, despite the bridge always being open, expect varying levels of activity and queue lengths depending on the time of day. Early morning hours between 6 AM and 8 AM typically experience lighter traffic compared to midday and early evening periods.

What are the typical wait times at the Ambassador Bridge?

Wait times at the Ambassador Bridge vary considerably depending on when you cross and which lane you use. In regular immigration and customs inspection lanes, expect typical waits of 30 to 40 minutes, particularly during peak travel periods. However, these times are not guaranteed and can extend significantly. The slowest reported crossing time on record is approximately one hour and 30 minutes. When immigration officers change shifts, additional delays of 10 to 15 minutes commonly occur. If you hold a NEXUS card for pre-screened travellers, you can access dedicated express lanes where wait times typically remain around 20 minutes even during busy periods. The Canadian Border Services Agency recommends crossing during early morning hours and avoiding the Monday of long holiday weekends when delays are most pronounced.

What are the current toll rates and payment methods for 2025?

The Ambassador Bridge toll rates for 2025 are straightforward for most vehicles. Passenger vehicles, motorcycles, and buses all cost USD 9.00 or CAD 12.00 when paying in cash. If you are towing a trailer, the toll doubles to USD 18.00 or CAD 24.00. The bridge accepts multiple payment methods including cash in either US dollars or Canadian dollars, credit and debit cards, and electronic transponders such as NEXUS cards. Unfortunately, the bridge does not yet accept Apple Pay, contactless tap to pay, or other mobile payment methods. Travellers should note that the bridge is moving towards predominantly electronic payment systems. If you cross the bridge frequently, you may benefit from joining the Premier membership programme, which requires an initial deposit of USD 150 and offers discounts of up to 50 percent on tolls.

What documents do I need to cross the Ambassador Bridge from Canada to the USA?

All travellers 16 years of age and older must carry valid approved identity documents proving both identity and citizenship when crossing from Canada into the United States. The most straightforward option is a valid US passport or passport card. Alternatively, you may present an Enhanced Driver's Licence, a NEXUS Card, or a FAST Card. For US permanent residents, a valid green card is acceptable. Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 150 days from your date of arrival in the United States, and you must have at least one completely blank page available for entry and exit stamps. Children aged 15 and younger may present an original birth certificate or proof of US citizenship such as a naturalization certificate, though carrying a passport is recommended. Children aged 16 and older require the same documentation as adults.

What documents do I need to cross the Ambassador Bridge from the USA to Canada?

Canadian immigration requires all travellers to prove their identity and citizenship when entering Canada. The Canada Border Services Agency recommends that all travellers carry a valid passport, as this is the most straightforward proof of citizenship and identity. However, you may also present a combination of documents showing your full name, date of birth, and citizenship. Examples include birth certificates, certificates of citizenship or naturalization, or Canadian citizenship cards, provided they are coupled with a separate photo identification document. US citizens may also present an Enhanced Driver's Licence, which functions as both a proof of identity and citizenship. If you are a US permanent resident, you must present your valid US permanent resident card when entering Canada by land. Unlike air travel, US permanent residents do not require their passport when entering Canada by land from the United States.

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DISCLAIMER: This guide provides general information based on data available at time of publication. Border regulations, requirements, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current information with official government sources before travel. BorderRoute.com is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or outdated information. Travel decisions and border compliance remain the sole responsibility of the traveler.

14 Sep, 2025

Using the NEXUS lane made crossing the Ambassador Bridge a breeze during my business trip. I was through both checkpoints in under 15 minutes total. The officers were professional and the process was smooth. Definitely worth getting NEXUS if you cross regularly

James

My family crossing experience was mixed. The Canadian side was quick and friendly, but we got selected for secondary inspection entering the U.S. which added an hour to our journey. The officers eventually apologized for the delay and explained they were conducting additional checks due to a security alert. Despite this, the facilities were clean and staff was professional

Sarah

As a commercial driver, I cross weekly. The FAST lanes have significantly improved my crossing times, but Huron Church Road traffic remains a major bottleneck. The 17 traffic lights before reaching the bridge can add up to 45 minutes during peak periods. If you’re a tourist, consider crossing outside 7-9AM and 3-6PM to avoid the worst delays

Miguel