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It’s important to know the risks and limits associated with Covid-19 if you’re planning a trip to Canada. The federal government still classifies Canada as having a Level 3—or High—Covid-19 incidence rate, even though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) no longer recommends avoiding travel altogether.
American tourists can still visit Canada, but they will have to deal with some restrictions. What follows is essential information. This is the information you’ve been waiting for.
Existing Restrictions on Travel to Canada
Although Canada’s entrance requirements have changed multiple times, the current policy allows anyone who can provide proof of immunization to enter the country. Those who haven’t had the necessary vaccinations likely won’t be allowed entry.
Entry Requirements for Canadians Leaving the United States
Unless the traveler qualifies for an exemption, such as a medical inability to be vaccinated, vaccination is still needed for any travel into and out of Canada.
If you want to enter Canada without worry, make sure you meet their vaccination requirements by:
- Have gotten the Janssen/Johnson & Johnson vaccination twice (or a combination of two approved vaccines) or just once (for short trips)./li>
- Possess a valid vaccination certificate showing that you had your second dose at least 14 days before entering Canada./li>
- You don’t seem to be affected by Covid-19 in any way./li>
- Be sure to submit your travel details and vaccination records through the ArriveCAN portal as part of the pre-entry process.
Testing is no longer required for vaccinated adults or for small children under the age of 5. However, a genuine negative test is required if you are traveling with children aged 5 or older who are not fully vaccinated. Acceptable tests include antigen testing performed within one calendar day or molecular tests (such as a PCR) taken within 72 hours before your scheduled flight or arrival to Canada by land or water.
Although unvaccinated youngsters may produce a negative test in lieu of immunization, adults don’t have this same option. United States people traveling to Canada for tourist or commercial purposes must be properly immunized. Exceptions are only made in special situations.
All travelers must input their travel information into ArriveCAN. The form asks for confirmation of immunization as well as contact, travel and a recommended quarantine plan, should you develop unwell while in Canada. The information must be supplied within 72 hours before landing in Canada. Those who don’t provide their details can be denied boarding on the airline or admission into the country if going by land.
It’s important to have travel insurance before any trip.
Conditions for Entry into the United States from Canada
U.S. citizens returning from Canada do not need to present a negative Covid-19 test in order to enter the United States as of June 12. The CDC no longer requires proof of a negative Covid test or recovery for visitors to re-enter the country.
To enter the United States from Canada, you will need to produce proof of vaccination if you are not a U.S. citizen or are on an immigrant visa.
