Canada Border Services Agency – Stanstead Port of Entry

Border Crossing From Canada to USA by Land

Opening Hours

Standard Hours: Canadian Side: Open 24 hours daily U.S. Side: Open 8am - 8pm, 7 days a week Seasonal Adjustments: None reported Holiday Closures: No specific holiday closures noted, operational 24/7

Wait Time & Traffic

Average Wait:

Personal Vehicles: 10-30 minutes
Commercial Vehicles: 30-60 minutes

Peak Times:

Holiday weekends
Summer tourist season (June-August)
Major holiday periods

Express Options:

NEXUS program (when operational)
Trusted Traveler Programs

Border Facilities

Immigration Processing: Available Customs Processing: Available Health Screening: Limited screening protocols Services: Restrooms Limited vending machines No currency exchange on-site Accessibility: Basic wheelchair access Limited assistive services

Official Resources

U.S. Border Authority:

Website: https://www.cbp.gov
Contact: 1-877-227-5511

Canadian Border Authority:

Website: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
Contact: 1-800-461-9999

Travel Advisories:

U.S. State Department Travel Website
Government of Canada Travel Advisory Website

Overview

The Stanstead-Derby Line border crossing represents a unique international boundary that connects Vermont in the United States with Quebec in Canada. Historically developed as essentially one community divided by an international line, this border crossing has evolved significantly since its establishment in 1909. Located at the intersection of U.S. Route 5 and Quebec Route 143, it serves as a critical transportation link between New England and Quebec's Eastern Townships. The crossing features two primary entry points: the historic Main Street crossing and the more modern Interstate 91/Autoroute 55 connection. While once characterized by informal and flexible movement between communities, increased security measures implemented after 2001 have transformed the border into a more strictly regulated checkpoint. Despite these changes, the crossing remains a symbol of the long-standing cooperation between the United States and Canada.

Document Requirements

Valid Passport
Appropriate Visa (Tourist, Work, Study)
Proof of sufficient funds
Return ticket or onward travel documentation
Travel insurance
Completed ArriveCAN or equivalent documentation

Valid U.S. Passport or Passport Card
Enhanced Driver’s License
NEXUS Card (if applicable)
Proof of citizenship
Valid vehicle registration and insurance

Valid Canadian Passport
Permanent Resident Card
NEXUS Card (if applicable)
Work or study permits
Proof of purpose of travel

Crossing Procedure

From Canada Side

Proceed to Canadian Border Services checkpoint Present all required documentation Declare any goods or items Undergo potential vehicle or personal inspection Receive entry stamp or permit

From USA Side

Stop at U.S. Border Checkpoint Present required documentation Answer immigration officer's questions Vehicle inspection (if required) Receive exit clearance

Special Considerations

Vehicle Imports/Exports: Standard customs declaration required Temporary vehicle import permits may be necessary Ensure all vehicle documentation is current Goods Allowances: Standard duty-free limits apply Declare all goods exceeding personal exemption Restrictions on agricultural products, alcohol, and tobacco Prohibited Items: Firearms and weapons Illegal drugs Certain food products Agricultural products without proper certification Currency Restrictions: Must declare amounts over $10,000 CAD/USD No specific restrictions on amount, but must be declared Known Issues: Potential long wait times during peak periods Strict documentation requirements Potential vehicle searches

Accommodations

Hotels near Border (Country A – USA):

Derby Line Inn
Comfort Inn Newport
Baymont by Wyndham Newport

Hotels near Border (Country B – Canada):

Auberge La Porte Rouge
Hotel Manoir Stanstead
L’Olde School Inn

Better Options Nearby:

Newport, Vermont (15 km from border)
Stanstead, Quebec (2 km from border)
Magog, Quebec (30 km from border)

Public Review Sentiments

Based on total reviews found online, travelers have mixed experiences at the Stanstead border crossing. Positive aspects include efficient processing, friendly staff, and quick transit times. Many travelers appreciate the courteous and professional border agents who make the crossing process smooth. Notably positive experiences include swift processing, multilingual staff (English and French), and helpful immigration officers. However, critical feedback highlights occasional instances of unprofessional behavior, with some reviews mentioning intimidating attitudes, long wait times, and seemingly arbitrary decision-making. Specific concerns include inconsistent treatment, potential bias in processing, and complex appointment requirements for work permits and immigration services.

Traveler Experiences

"We arrived early morning, and despite initial nervousness, the agents were incredibly professional and made us feel at ease. Whole process took less than 20 minutes!" - Emily R., March 2024

"As a first-time international traveler, I was impressed by the multilingual staff and clear instructions. They made a potentially stressful experience quite smooth." - Michael T., January 2024

"The border agents were courteous, especially when I explained my work permit situation. They were patient and helpful throughout the entire process." - Sophie L., February 2024

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.