World Cup Security Brings Exit Checkpoints, Peace Arch Barrier

BLAINE, Wash. — Travelers crossing between Washington and British Columbia during the 2026 FIFA World Cup will see tighter security at the U.S.-Canada border. U.S. officials have begun to use exit checkpoints and state park employees were instructed to install a temporary barrier that now divides Peace Arch Historical Park.

While federal and provincial agencies have expanded security operations as Seattle and Vancouver host World Cup matches this summer, the temporary barrier at the park is quite jarring for frequent park visitors.

Millions of visitors from around the world are expected to travel throughout the Cascadia region during the tournament.

The international park sits on the border between Blaine and Surrey, British Columbia. The barrier separates the park into Canadian and American sections during the event.

For decades, Peace Arch Park served as a unique gathering place where visitors could meet across the border without entering a formal port of entry.

Who Installed the Peace Arch Barrier?

One question that remains unresolved is which agency installed the temporary barrier now dividing Peace Arch Historical Park.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection spokesperson Jason Givens told PNW Daily that Canadian authorities installed the barrier and referred questions to Canadian officials.

However, people familiar with park operations on both sides of the border provided a different account. Corey Barker, who works on the Canadian side of Peace Arch Park, said RCMP officials had sought a temporary barrier to help manage crowds during the FIFA World Cup.

Barker told PNW Daily that state park employee affectionately known as Ranger Rick from the American side installed the barrier.

PNW Daily also identified the rope very similar to the one installed by Washington State Parks staff for events at the American Kitchen.

This weekend, the cross-border protest group Peace, Love, and a Handshake are planning to meet at the park as scheduled from Noon to 2 PM, despite the barrier. The group is made up of Canadian and Americans, who meet in the spirit of the park.

Exit Checkpoints Return to the Border

The World Cup security plan also includes U.S. exit checkpoints near border crossings.

PNW Daily previously reported on exit checkpoints at the Peace Arch and Pacific Highway crossings. During those operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers stopped vehicles before they entered Canada. Officers conducted inspections and questioned travelers.

Officials have not disclosed how often they will operate the checkpoints. They also have not explained how officers will select vehicles for inspection.

Border agencies on both sides of the border are preparing for a sharp increase in traffic. Officials warn that travelers may face longer waits throughout the tournament, especially on match days in Seattle and Vancouver.

Border Agencies Prepare for Surge

The Blaine crossings rank among the busiest on the U.S.-Canada border. The Peace Arch and Pacific Highway ports process millions of travelers every year. They serve as the primary gateway between Metro Vancouver and western Washington.

Transportation and border agencies have prepared for World Cup traffic for several years. Their planning has focused on balancing security with efficient travel.

Officials urge travelers to check border wait times before leaving home. They also recommend allowing extra time for international trips. Major sporting events, holidays and tour groups could create significant backups at border crossings.

New CBP Link App Aims to Speed Border Crossings

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is encouraging eligible travelers to use the CBP Link mobile app before arriving at the border.

The app allows travelers who need an I-94 arrival and departure record to submit information and pay the required fee in advance. CBP says the process can reduce wait times and speed inspections at land crossings.

The app may prove especially useful during the World Cup. Officials expect some of the heaviest cross-border traffic in the region’s history as fans travel between Vancouver and Seattle.

Most Canadian citizens do not need an I-94 for routine visits to the United States. Many foreign nationals entering through land crossings must obtain one. Travelers can complete the process through the CBP Link app before arriving at the border.

The current land-border I-94 fee is $30.

What Travelers Should Expect

Drivers traveling through Blaine should prepare for:

• Increased law enforcement presence near border crossings.
• Possible exit inspections before leaving the United States.
• Longer processing times at ports of entry.
• Temporary restrictions at Peace Arch Historical Park.
• Heavy congestion on match days in Seattle and Vancouver.

Officials say the measures will help protect public safety during the World Cup. They also represent one of the biggest temporary changes to cross-border travel in the Pacific Northwest since the COVID-19 pandemic.

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