The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has proposed a new rule that requires rail carriers to submit advance traveler information for passengers and crew traveling into or out of the United States by train. Aimed at enhancing national security and improving border processing efficiency, the proposed rule will be published in the Federal Register on October 13, 2026, with a 60-day comment period following publication.
### Key Changes
If finalized, the rule mandates that rail carriers:
– Submit advance notices of train arrivals or departures.
– Provide traveler information for all passengers and crew.
– Include biographic and travel document details before departure.
– Update CBP on any changes to traveler or itinerary information.
This proposal would affect both passenger and cargo rail operations.
### Required Information
The data requirements echo those of the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) used in air and sea travel. Carriers would need to submit details like:
– Full name, date of birth, gender
– Citizenship and residence
– Passport or travel document info
– Traveler status (passenger or crew)
– Itinerary and U.S. address
– Contact info, seat, and baggage details
Train-level data including border crossing points and schedules must also be transmitted to CBP.
### Filing Deadlines
– Advance notices: Generally 24 hours before reaching the U.S. border.
– Passenger and crew info: At least 60 minutes before departure.
CBP will conduct security and admissibility checks and may require additional reviews before departure in some cases.
### Rationale
CBP noted that current rail regulations lack consistent advance information, hindering its ability to assess security and law enforcement risks. A voluntary rail reporting program in place since 2005 has yield positive results, leading CBP to advocate for mandatory advance reporting from all international rail carriers.
### Next Steps
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments. For further inquiries or specific case questions, contact your employer or EIG attorney.
