Located along the US-Mexico border on the Pacific coast, the San Ysidro Port of Entry is a vital gateway connecting San Diego and rapidly growing Tijuana. This bustling corridor facilitates a vast array of cross-border traffic. It was originally established in 1906, and in the past 120 years, this port has evolved into the world’s largest international border crossing, the fourth-busiest land crossing by people, and by far the most significant industrial corridor for Northa American trade.
Every day, 24 hours a day, this border crossing is teeming with commercial, individual, and pedestrian traffic. Let’s take a look at this hugely significant crossing and discuss what you should know if you plan to cross the border here.
At the heart of the San Diego-Tijuana metropolitan region, the San Ysidro Port of Entry serves as a crucial link between Mexican Federal Highway 1 and Interstate 5. Its strategic location attracts a staggering daily influx of 70,000 northbound vehicles and 20,000 pedestrians, making it a focal point for cross-border commerce and travel. It truly is the main gateway between the nations of Mexico and the United States.
The port boasts multiple gateways catering to various modes of transportation. With 34 lanes for northbound vehicles and bi-directional pedestrian crossings, including the recently enhanced PedWest facility, travelers enjoy improved efficiency and convenience. The southbound lanes of Interstate 5, now located west of their previous location through the El Chaparral Point of Entry, provide space for expanded administrative and border inspection facilities, facilitating a smoother flow of traffic.
In 2019, the most recent year for crossing statistics published, there were:
The San Ysidro port of entry is one of three public ports on the US side of the 60-mile-long border with Baja California, along with Otay Mesa and Tecate. On the Mexican side, there is also the El Chaparrel Point of Entry. The San Ysidro and El Chaparral ports of entry jointly constitute the busiest land border crossing in the world. There are also eight international railroad crossings for freight shipments along this border.
To meet the demands of increasing traffic, the San Ysidro Port of Entry underwent a significant expansion project. Costing approximately $625 million, this bi-national effort aimed to modernize and expand administrative and operational facilities, including the addition of 38 new vehicle inspection booths. The project’s completion in 2019 transformed the port into a model of sustainable design and technology, poised to accommodate projected growth for years to come.
The expanded port of entry now includes 34 northbound lanes with 62 inspection booths. Additionally, SENTRI efficiency has been increased, and a multimodal transit center was added.
Crossing the border from the United States to Mexico requires specific documentation. Mexican nationals must present valid identification such as passports or INE credentials, while foreigners need passports and may require additional permits or visas. Conversely, travelers heading northbound into the United States need appropriate documentation, including passports and visas where applicable.
For commercial travelers and cargo shipping, standard cross border trucking rules apply. As with any US-Mexico port of entry, certain papers should be in order, such as a bill of lading, commercial invoice, certificate of origin, etc.
Accessing the San Ysidro Port of Entry is straightforward, whether by vehicle or foot. Travelers driving from San Diego can easily reach the port via Interstate 5, while pedestrians can utilize the nearby trolley system. Once at the port, efficient processing ensures minimal wait times, facilitating smooth and hassle-free border crossings.
While the San Ysidro Port of Entry serves as the primary gateway, travelers have alternative options for crossing between San Diego and Tijuana. The Otay Mesa border crossing offers a faster but less centrally located option. This is, of course, ideal for travelers with specific destinations in mind. Additionally, the CBX border crossing caters exclusively to travelers using the Tijuana International Airport, providing a swift and convenient passage for air travelers.
The San Ysidro port of entry truly stands as a testament to the enduring bonds between the United States and Mexico. The value of commerce between these two top trading partners exceeds $1 million USD per minute, and as such, ease of border crossing is essential. With its extensive facilities, strategic location, and ongoing expansion efforts, it continues to facilitate seamless cross-border travel and commerce, enriching the lives of millions who traverse its pathways each year.
By investing in state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology, both the United States and Mexico are committed to fostering continued economic growth and cultural exchange between their nations. As the gateway to two vibrant and interconnected communities, the San Ysidro Port of Entry remains an enduring symbol of cooperation and partnership in the border region.
