Port Pass
The Port Pass is a photo identification card used to identify personnel authorized to access the Port of Vancouver. Anyone who needs access to [ port property ] more than five times per month or 12 times per year should have a valid Port Pass.
The Port Pass program also incorporates Transport Canada’s [ Marine Transportation Security Clearance ] (MTSC) program for those who require access to restricted areas or information. (See below for more information)
Applying for a new Port Pass
Employees of port terminals/facilities: Your employer is responsible for completing and submitting a Port Pass sponsorship request form to port.pass@portvancouver.com and mtscport.passoffice@portvancouver.com (if MTSC is required)
Contractors, consultants, and regular visitors: The card issuing authority associated with your business service (see below) will complete and submit a Port Pass sponsorship request to the terminal/facility where you will be working. Please follow the process outlined on card issuing authority’s website (linked below).
| Card issuing authority | Business services |
| Vancouver Fraser Port Authority |
|
| Chamber of Shipping BC |
|
| British Columbia Trucking Association |
|
| SSA Marine |
|
Once your sponsorship request has been submitted, you will receive a Port Pass application form link by email. After you complete the application, you will receive a link by email to book a Port Pass appointment at the Marine Transportation Security Clearance Enrolment Office, located at the cruise ship level of Canada Place.
Please bring the I.D. you listed on your Port Pass application and any previously issued Port Passes (if applicable) to your appointment.
Acceptable I.D.
- British Columbia driver’s license
- British Columbia identification card
- Canadian passport
- FAST membership card
- NEXUS card
- Other Canadian government-issued photo identification
- Non-Canadian government-issued photo identification
I.D. not accepted
- Personal bank card
- Personal or business credit card
- Social insurance card
- Interim driver’s license
If you lose your Port Pass, please:
- contact your card issuing authority right away to have the pass deactivated
- complete a Port Pass application to apply for a new pass
- pay the recovery fee to collect your replacement pass
Port Pass recovery fees
- First lost Port Pass: $60
- Second lost Port Pass: $100
- Third or subsequent lost Port Pass: $150 and an interview with port authority security
Marine Transportation Security Clearance
The [ Marine Transportation Security Clearance ] (MTSC) Program provides background checks for marine workers that require access to restricted areas or information at marine facilities and ports. The program's purpose is to reduce the risk of security threats caused by unlawful interference with the marine transportation system. The program is administered by Transport Canada and its eligibility requirements are outlined in the Marine Transportation Security Regulations.
Applying for security clearance
You must have a valid Port Pass before applying for Marine Transportation Security Clearance.
Complete the process outlined above
Once your sponsorship has been confirmed, you will receive a link to create a Transportation Security Service (TSS) account. Complete and submit your application to the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority enrolment office via your TSS account
Once your application has been reviewed, you will receive a link by email to book an in-person appointment with the Marine Transportation Security Clearance Enrolment Office. Please bring to your appointment the original identification pieces submitted on your application.
For more information, please contact the Marine Transportation Security Clearance Enrolment Office by calling 604.665.9661 or email mtscport.passoffice@portvancouver.com.