Canada will soon open the border once again to its American neighbours. At least, those who have been vaccinated.
The federal government announced Monday afternoon that fully vaccinated American citizens and permanent residents may resume crossing the border into Canada for non-essential purposes. This easing of restrictions takes effect at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, August 9.
Just like their Canadian counterparts, Americans will have to show proof that they are vaccinated to be exempt from any quarantine requirements, via the ArriveCAN app. Travellers must also show proof of a negative COVID-19 test, be asymptomatic, and meet any other pre-travel entry requirements.
The federal government will also drop on August 9 the three-day quarantine stay at hotels for those entering Canada from abroad. The temperature check requirement at airports for those boarding flights and airport employees will also end.
However, the relaxation of border rules does not apply to those who have not been fully vaccinated, except by exemption through the Canada Quarantine Act.
Those entering Canada from the U.S. will still be required to have a quarantine plan in place and be ready to follow it should they not meet the requirements to be exempt from quarantine. Travellers will also have to continue to wear face coverings where required and practice social distancing.
For those flying into Canada from the U.S., face coverings are still required on flights regardless of vaccination status. Those who do not meet the requirements may still be denied entry into Canada or be barred from boarding their flight.
The border between the U.S. and Canada has been closed to all but essential traffic and commercial vehicles since March 2020, to slow the spread of the virus. So far, the United States has not announced a reciprocal plan to re-open its border to Canadians.
International travellers who have been fully inoculated against COVID-19 will be permitted to enter the country starting Tuesday, September 7. These dates are subject to adjustment should there be an increase in COVID-19 case rates.