arriving in vancouver
Canada Customs
The Canadian government allows students to bring with them a reasonable quantity of clothing, books, computers and other electronic items for personal use. Restrictions and limitations apply to tobacco, alcohol and certain foods and agricultural products. You may bring all personal effects into Canada duty-free. However, we suggest that you make a list of all the items you are bringing, including serial numbers of cameras, stereos, and computers, plus the approximate value of each item. Information on customs regulations may be obtained at a Canadian diplomatic mission, or on the Canadian Border Services Agency website.
Transportation from the Airport
Once you have obtained your documents from Immigration and collected your luggage, exit through the main doors of the airport to obtain transportation. Find a complete directory of transportation options at the YVR airport website.
Taxis
Taxicabs are available immediately outside the main doors and cost approximately CAD $30.00 to travel to the city centre (downtown). It is safe to take any taxi from the airport. It is common to tip the driver 10-15% of the fare.
SkyTrain
The Canada Line SkyTrain (above and below ground train) is the quickest way to get from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to downtown Vancouver, with a travel time of only 25 minutes.
This service replaces all public transit bus service to and from YVR. The SkyTrain is a quick, clean, comfortable and affordable mode of transportation from Vancouver Airport to Downtown Vancouver.