As of November 3, 2020, residents of Akwesasne now have a dedicated priority lane at the Cornwall border crossing. As part of a joint pilot project between the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, the so-called “domestic” lane will now be open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day through May 3, 2021. The project will be reviewed at the end of the six-month period to determine if it will be modified or implemented permanently.
The new domestic lane will be located in LANE 4 and signage will clearly indicate which lanes are for international travel, and which lane is for domestic travel only.
“Domestic Travel” is defined as travellers who have not been to the United States. It includes those who are travelling directly from Kawehno:ke (Cornwall Island), such as residents, and any traveller who has travelled to Kawehno:ke (Cornwall Island) directly from Cornwall, such as visitors, business people, teachers, service vehicles, etc. Domestic travel can include both Akwesasne residents and non-residents.
“International Travel” is defined as travellers who have been to the United States or transited through the United States (such as from the districts of Kana:takon (St. Regis) and Tsi Snaihne (Snye)). International travel can include both Akwesasne residents and non-residents.
Akwesasne is a Mohawk territory that straddles Quebec, Ontario, and the United States.