Canada officials seek public input on new RABC telephone reporting site locations

As the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) transitions to a new system for the Remote Area Border Crossing (RABC) program, the agency is seeking public feedback.

In December, the CBSA announced the existing RABC program will end on Sept. 14, 2026, and be replaced by a remote telephone reporting process.

The new telephone reporting system better aligns with how travelers report to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection when entering the U.S. in remote areas, CBSA states. RABC permits allow U.S. travelers to enter Quetico Provincial Park and the Canadian backcountry without going through an official port of entry.

Once established, designated telephone reporting sites will allow travelers who enter Canada to connect with a border services officer. The agency said that individuals will provide their travel details and identification, and will respond to questions.

“In some cases, travellers may be directed to meet an officer in person,” the agency said in a Jan. 26 press release. “This approach ensures that all travelers are processed securely and consistently, even in locations where the CBSA does not maintain a permanent on-site presence.”

The new telephone reporting locations have yet to be determined. The agency stated that it would like to gather input from Indigenous communities, residents and businesses, and other interested stakeholders to determine the best-suited locations.

“We are inviting affected stakeholders to provide input on possible locations of new telephone reporting sites,” the agency said. “Your feedback will support our ongoing efforts to ensure a convenient and safe border crossing experience.”

Logistics regarding where or how the telephone reporting stations will work remain for outfitters and travelers. In December, Matthew Ritter, co-owner of Voyageur Canoe Outfitters, told WTIP that the biggest concern is how the telephone reporting systems will work, given that “we are located in an area with little to no cell service.”

While it is welcome news that Canadian officials have decided how to move forward with the RABC program after over a year of uncertainty, Ritter said, “there is still a long road ahead as this new reporting program is developed and finalized.”

Over the coming months, the agency said, additional telephone reporting sites will be designated to facilitate border crossings in areas formerly covered by the RABC program.

The RABC program has been under review by CBSA after the agency paused processing new and renewal applications in September 2024.

Submit feedback on the RABC Telephone Reporting Site feedback form. The deadline is Feb. 13.

Kalli Hawkins February 7, 2026