After 1 1/2 years, Americans can now visit Canada. Over 15 million U.S. tourists visited Canada in 2019, down to 1.9 million in 2020 - down 87% with a loss of $11 billion - due to the pandemic restrictions. Effective August 9, 2021, Canada's border is open to fully vaccinated American citizens and permanent residents on August 9, and to other foreigners on September 7. Here are 13 Covid-related facts Americans should know before visiting Canada.
Covid-Related Facts for U.S. Visitors to Canada
1. Proof Of Full Vaccination
U.S. visitors must show proof of full vaccination at least 14 days prior to entry into Canada in English or French, or an official translation.
2. Accepted Vaccines
Canada accepts only the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD vaccines.
3. A Pre-entry Negative Test
All travellers including those will proof of full vaccination must show proof of a negative coronavirus molecular test within 72 hours of arrival to enter Canada.
4. ArriveCAN App
All travellers will be required to upload proof of vaccination to the ArriveCAN or website before they board their flight to Canada and carry their vaccine certificate with them to present to border officials.
5. Quarantine
Hotel quarantine on arrival requirements also ended on August 9. Visitors with COVID-19 symptoms need to self-isolate.
6. Longer Wait Times
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has announced travellers should expect increased processing times for border crossings due to the enhanced public health measures.
7. Children Under 12
Unvaccinated American children under the age of 12 and unvaccinated dependent children will be able to accompany a fully vaccinated parent, step-parent, or legal guardian and forgo the 14-day quarantine but must follow relevant public health guidelines in the region they’re visiting.
8. Health Exemptions
Individuals with health conditions that prevent them from being fully vaccinated can apply for health exemptions with modified quarantine and testing requirements.
9. Cruises
Cruises are not permitted to enter Canadian waters until November 1, 2021.
10. Masks
Air travellers need to wear a mask in Canadian airports and on flights in and out of Canada. Provinces have their own mask requirements.
11. Other Restrictions
Each Province has their own restrictions, quarantine guidelines and travel requirements.
12. International Airports
5 more Canadian airports resumed accepting international flights on August 9 for a total of 9 Canadian airports now accepting international flights.
13. Fines and Consequences
Travellers are under a legal obligation to meet the testing and entry requirements. Failure to comply with any requirements or providing false information may result in fines, penalties or imprisonment.
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Cross-Border Travel FAQs
- Nearly 60% of Canadians are fully vaccinated, and 70% have had at least one shot.
- 49.6% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated,
- The U.S. has extended border closures and restricts the entry of non-essential travellers from Mexico and Canada by land and ferry at least through August 21.
Do You Have Questions About Travel to Canada?
If you have questions about your eligibility to travel to Canada or need an essential traveller exemption, contact Ackah Law for assistance.
