Opening Hours
Standard Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
Seasonal Adjustments: None reported
Holiday Closures: Minimal disruptions, typically maintains continuous operations
Wait Time & Traffic
Average Wait:
- Passenger Vehicles: 5-15 minutes
- Commercial Trucks: 30-90 minutes
- Peak Season: Up to 2 hours during busy periods
Peak Times:
- Weekday mornings (7-9 AM)
- Holiday weekends
- Summer tourism season
Express Options:
- NEXUS program (for pre-approved travelers)
- Commercial FAST lane for authorized carriers
Border Facilities
Immigration Processing: Available
Customs Processing: Available
Health Screening: Limited screening capabilities
Services:
Basic restrooms
Vending machines
Limited food options
No currency exchange on-site
Accessibility:
Basic wheelchair access
Limited assistance for disabled travelers
Official Resources
Canadian Border Authority:
- Website: www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
- Contact: 1-800-461-9999
U.S. Border Authority:
- Website: www.cbp.gov
- Contact: 1-877-227-5511
Travel Advisories:
- Government of Canada Travel Site
- U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories
Overview
The North Portal-Portal border crossing is a critical international gateway connecting Saskatchewan, Canada, and North Dakota, United States. Located along Highway 39 in Canada and U.S. Route 52 in the United States, this crossing plays a pivotal role in facilitating trade and transportation between the Canadian Prairies and the U.S. Midwest. Despite being situated in a small community with just 116 residents in Portal, North Dakota, the border crossing processes substantial commercial and passenger traffic.
The facility serves as a key route for transporting oil field equipment, agricultural products, and machinery. Between 2004 and 2014, truck crossings increased by an impressive 83.59%, highlighting its growing economic significance. In 2011, the crossing processed over 180,000 vehicles and facilitated nearly $9.6 billion in bilateral trade, making it a crucial link in the North American supply chain.
Document Requirements
- Valid Passport
- Appropriate Visa (if required)
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Return/onward travel ticket
- Letter of invitation or purpose of visit documentation
- Travel insurance
- Work/study permits (if applicable)
- Valid U.S. Passport or Enhanced Driver’s License
- Proof of citizenship
- Vehicle registration
- Declaration of goods
- Potentially additional documentation for commercial vehicles
- Valid Canadian Passport or NEXUS card
- Proof of citizenship
- Vehicle registration (if driving)
- Declaration of goods being transported
Read More Border Crossing Requirements
Crossing Procedure
From Canada Side
Approach designated lane
Stop at border control booth
Present documentation to Canadian Border Services Agency officer
Answer questions about travel purpose
Declare any goods
Receive clearance to exit
From USA Side
Proceed to U.S. Customs and Border Protection booth
Present documentation
Undergo primary inspection
Potential secondary inspection if required
Answer questions about travel purpose and duration
Declare goods and agricultural products
Receive entry permission
Special Considerations
Vehicle Imports/Exports:
Temporary import permits required
Commercial vehicles need additional documentation
Agricultural equipment subject to inspection
Goods Allowances:
Personal goods: Up to CAD $200 duty-free
Alcohol: Limited quantities
Tobacco: Restricted amounts
Prohibited Items:
Firearms without proper permits
Certain agricultural products
Illegal drugs
Restricted medications
Weapons
Currency Restrictions:
Must declare amounts over CAD/USD $10,000
Known Issues:
Potential delays during peak seasons
Strict agricultural and food import regulations
Variability in processing times for commercial vehicles
Accommodations
Hotels and Restaurants in North Portal, SK:
- Limited local options
- Nearest comprehensive accommodations in Estevan (50 km)
Hotels and Restaurants in Portal, ND:
- Very limited local options
- Basic roadside accommodations
Better Options Nearby:
- Estevan, SK (50 km): Multiple hotels, restaurants
- Weyburn, SK (100 km): More extensive amenities
- Minot, ND (180 km): Significant urban center with numerous options
Public Review Sentiments
Based on total reviews found online, public sentiment towards the North Portal Border Crossing is mixed but predominantly positive. Travelers consistently praise the border staff for their professionalism and friendliness. Many reviews highlight quick processing times and courteous officers, particularly noting the efficiency of male border agents. Commercial truck drivers report varied experiences, with some appreciating helpful staff and others criticizing long wait times and inconsistent gate operations.
Positive highlights include:
Friendly and professional border staff
Swift processing for passenger vehicles
Helpful officers during work permit applications
Critical points involve:
Lengthy commercial truck wait times
Occasional inconsistent gate management
Perceived variability in staff attitudes
Traveler Experiences
"First time crossing, super friendly officers, under 10 minutes processing!" - Sarah M., July 2024
"As a truck driver, appreciate the professional staff, especially during busy periods." - John D., March 2025
"Smooth entry process, officers were helpful and made me feel welcome." - Maria K., 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.
