Coutts-Sweetgrass Border Crossing Canada USA
Border Crossing From Canada to USA by Land
Opening Hours
Standard Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
Seasonal Adjustments: None reported
Holiday Closures: No specific holiday closures mentioned
Wait Time & Traffic
Average Wait:
- Personal Vehicles: 4-30 minutes
- Commercial Trucks: Up to 2-3 hours
- Immigration Services: 6-10 hours for work permits
Peak Times:
- Weekday mornings
- Holiday weekends
- Summer tourist season
Express Options:
- NEXUS program
- FAST lanes for pre-approved commercial vehicles
Border Facilities
Immigration Processing: Available
Customs Processing: Available
Health Screening: Limited
Services:
Restrooms
Limited parking
No currency exchange
No food services
Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access
Official Resources
Canada Border Services Agency:
- Website: www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
- Contact: 1-800-461-9999
U.S. Customs and Border Protection:
- Website: www.cbp.gov
- Contact: (406) 335-2666
Travel Advisories:
- Government of Canada Travel Advisories
- U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories
Overview
The Coutts-Sweetgrass Border Crossing is a critical international gateway connecting Alberta, Canada, and Montana, United States. Established in 1890, this sophisticated border facility spans approximately 6,000 square meters and features an innovative architectural design with a glass-enclosed bridge dividing the Canadian and American sides. As the busiest border crossing between Alberta and Montana, it handles approximately 0.25 million annual movements and facilitates an estimated CA$6 billion in cross-border trade.
The crossing is strategically located along Interstate 15 and Alberta Highway 4, serving as a primary trucking route for Alberta's energy exports. Its integrated facility design allows for efficient processing of both commercial and passenger vehicles, with specialized FAST lanes for pre-approved commercial traffic. The border crossing plays a crucial role in regional economic exchange, connecting communities and supporting international trade.
Document Requirements
- Valid Passport
- Appropriate Canadian or U.S. visa
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Return ticket
- Travel insurance
- Completed customs declaration
- Valid U.S. Passport
- Appropriate visa or travel authorization
- Proof of return travel
- Completed customs declaration
- Valid Canadian Passport or Permanent Resident Card
- ArriveCAN app documentation
- Proof of purpose of travel
- Any relevant work/study permits
Read More Border Crossing Requirements
Crossing Procedure
From Canada Side
Approach border checkpoint
Present valid documentation
Answer border officer's questions
Vehicle inspection if required
Receive exit stamp/clearance
From USA Side
Present passport and documentation
Undergo primary inspection
Answer border officer's questions
Potential secondary inspection
Receive entry authorization
Special Considerations
Vehicle Imports/Exports:
Standard customs regulations apply
Commercial vehicle inspections required
Goods Allowances:
Standard duty-free limits
Agricultural and food restrictions
Prohibited Items:
Weapons
Illegal drugs
Agricultural products
Certain food items
Currency Restrictions:
Reporting required for amounts over CA$10,000
Known Issues:
Potential long wait times
Inconsistent service experiences
Accommodations
Hotels and Restaurants near Border (Canada):
- Coutts has limited accommodation options
- Nearby towns like Milk River offer more choices
Hotels and Restaurants near Border (United States):
- Sweet Grass has minimal accommodations
- Shelby, Montana offers more hotel and dining options
Better Options Nearby:
- Lethbridge, AB (90 km)
- Great Falls, MT (250 km)
Public Review Sentiments
Based on total reviews found online, the public sentiment towards the Coutts-Sweetgrass Border Crossing is mixed. Positive experiences highlight the professionalism and kindness of many border officers, with specific praise for individuals like Officer Kehler, Officer Victoria Steffensen, and Officer Johnson. Travelers appreciate efficient processing, particularly for work permit and immigration services.
However, critical reviews point to significant concerns, including long wait times, inconsistent staffing, and occasional unprofessional behavior from some officers. Some reviewers reported wait times ranging from 2-12 hours for work permit processing. Concerns about racial profiling and discriminatory treatment were also mentioned by some travelers, suggesting inconsistent service standards.
Traveler Experiences
"Officer Kehler was incredibly professional and kind during my work permit process." - March 2025
"The border officers made me feel welcomed and explained everything clearly." - February 2025
"Despite long wait times, the staff were ultimately helpful and respectful." - January 2025
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.
