---
title: What happens at the border when I activate my work permit?
description: A CBSA officer checks your documents, confirms you're admissible and issues your work permit. Most people are through in 5�10 minutes.
---
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# What happens at the border when I activate my work permit?
## What to expect from the border officer and how long it takes.
You show your documents to a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer, who confirms you can enter Canada and gives you your work permit. Most people are done in 5�10 minutes.
**Why you still go through the border with an LOI:** Your LOI is a pre-approval. Everyone entering Canada still has to be found admissible by a CBSA officer at the border, the same as showing your passport to enter any country. Think of it like a concert: you've bought your ticket, but you still have to get through security to get into the arena. The line can feel slow at first, and then it moves quickly.
## Choosing where and when to cross
Some of the busiest ports of entry have limited services. See the [list of ports with limited hours](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/bwt-taf/menu-eng.html), and check the [CBSA website](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/do-rb/menu-eng.html) for information on the crossing you plan to use before you go.
## Talking to the border officer
You can simply say you're there to work and you're activating your work permit. Stick to the purpose of this visit. You shouldn't have to share details about your personal life or future plans in Canada.
Some people find the border intimidating, and that's normal. Officers are trained to assess the people and goods coming into Canada. As a legal permit applicant, you have very little to worry about. Be courteous and respectful, and be on your best behavior, as you would with any officer of the law at an international border.
## Activating your permit
You'll show your documents and get your work permit paper. Bring your passport, your LOI, proof of travel medical insurance, proof of support funds and any other supporting documents you used in your online application. Having them printed, tidy and ready is recommended but not required. See the Government of Canada's [arrival requirements](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/iec/prepare-arrival.html) and our checklist of what to bring when you enter Canada.
**Check your work permit for accuracy before you leave the border.** Get any mistakes fixed while you're still there.
## Other things to plan for
- **Goods:** Take care if you're [bringing goods in](https://travel.gc.ca/returning/customs/what-you-can-bring-home-to-canada). See the information on [tariffs](https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/tariffs-tarifs/index-eng.html).
- **Prescriptions:** You can bring up to a 90-day supply.
- **Your car:** If you're driving in and need information on importing your car, contact us.
For a walkthrough, watch our [Border & Travel to Canada video](https://youtu.be/MGR1zf8tUnM).
- [General](https://knowledge.interexchange.org/working-abroad/general?hsLang=en-us#main-content)
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