canadian travel usa requirements

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Fact Sheet: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S. at Land Ports of Entry and Ferry Terminals

Updated Date: May 1, 2023

DHS Statement on the Lifting of Title 19 Requirements

Beginning May 12, 2023, DHS will no longer require non-U.S. travelers entering the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and provide related proof of vaccination upon request. DHS intends to rescind these Title 19 travel restrictions in alignment with the end of the Public Health Emergency and the termination of the Presidential Proclamation on air travel .

Updated Date: April 21, 2022

As of Thursday, April 21, 2022, DHS will extend COVID-19-related land border entry requirements. Non-U.S. travelers seeking to enter the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals at the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination upon request.  

These restrictions apply to non-U.S. travelers who are traveling for essential or non-essential reasons. They do not apply to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or U.S. nationals. 

This announcement does not affect requirements for entry into the United States by air.

What To Expect

As travel returns to pre-pandemic levels, wait times are expected to increase. The resources below are intended to prepare travelers to improve the cross-border travel experience. Travelers should plan for longer than normal wait times and longer lines at U.S. land border crossings when planning their trip and are reminded to exercise patience.

To help reduce wait times and long lines, travelers arriving or departing from air, sea or land ports of entry are encouraged to opt in to using Simplified Arrival or Mobile Passport Control , which can make the inspection process touchless and more expedient with the use of facial comparison technology . Documented non-citizens may also apply for and manage their I-94s through the CBP One TM mobile application, which serves as a single portal for individuals to access CBP mobile applications and services.

Arrival at Land Port of Entry or Ferry Terminal

Since January 22, 2022, DHS has allowed inbound non-U.S. travelers (non-U.S. citizens who are neither U.S. nationals nor lawful permanent residents) to seek to enter the United States via a land port of entry (POE) or ferry terminal if they are fully vaccinated and have appropriate documentation.

Non-U.S. individuals traveling to the United States via land ports of entry or ferry terminals, whether for essential or non-essential reasons, must: 

• verbally attest to their COVID-19 vaccination status;
• provide, upon request, proof of a CDC-approved COVID-19 vaccination, as outlined on the CDC website ;  
• present a valid  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  (WHTI)-compliant document, such as a valid passport, Trusted Traveler Program Card, or Enhanced Tribal Card;   
• be prepared to present any other relevant documents requested by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer during a border inspection; and   

COVID-19 testing is not required for entry via a land or ferry port of entry. 

Click here to see answers to frequently asked questions

In March 2020, to prevent the further spread of COVID-19, the U.S. government issued restrictions on travel into the United States. DHS implemented temporary restrictions, limiting entry at the U.S. northern and southern land borders to persons engaged in essential travel, including lawful trade, emergency response, and public health purposes. The White House also suspended entry to foreign nationals who had recently been in certain countries.

In October 2021, the White House  announced  that, starting November 8, 2021, the U.S. government would move away from the country-by-country restrictions previously applied during the COVID-19 pandemic and adopt travel policies that rely primarily on vaccination to advance the safe resumption of travel. Since January 22, 2022, DHS has imposed a vaccination requirement on non-U.S. individuals seeking to cross into the United States at land ports of entry or ferry terminals. 

CDC Resources

• International Travel Landing Page
• Travel Requirements: Quiz
• International Travel : Information for U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, Lawful Permanent Residents, and People Traveling to the U.S. on Immigrant Visas
• Non-U.S. Citizen Non-U.S. Immigrants: Air Travel to the United States

Additional Information

• Vaccines.gov
• DHS Response to Coronavirus Disease 2019
• Coronavirus.gov
• CDC.gov: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
• USA.gov: What the U.S. Government is Doing (link is no longer valid)
• Border Security
• Transportation Security
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

• For International Visitors

Know Before You Visit

Almost a million individuals enter the U.S. daily. Everyone arriving at a port of entry to the U.S. is subject to inspection by Customs and Border Protection officers for compliance with immigration, customs and agriculture regulations. The more international travelers know about what to expect, the easier and quicker the process becomes.  

Related Travel Resources

• Money and Other Monetary Instruments  
• Prohibited and Restricted Items

Knowledge Article

Visiting the U.S. - Documents required for Canadian Citizens / Residents / Landed Immigrant to enter the U.S. and how long they can stay

• Canadian passport
• Enhanced Driver's License/Enhanced Identification Card
• NEXUS, FAST/EXPRES
• SENTRI enrollment cards.
• Groups of Children: Canadian citizen children under age 19 arriving by land or sea from contiguous territory and traveling with a school group, religious group, social/cultural organization, or sports team, may also present an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Naturalization Certificate, or a Canadian Citizenship Card.
• The group should provide, on organizational letterhead: The name of the group and supervising adult, a list of the children on the trip, the primary home address, phone number, date of birth, place of birth, and name of at least one parent or legal guardian for each child.
• A written and signed statement of the supervising adult certifying that he or she has obtained parental or legal guardian consent for each participating child.

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I am an American citizen. What do I need to enter Canada?

American citizens, including American-Canadian citizens, must carry proper identification and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada . You do not need a Canadian passport, a Canadian visa or an eTA to enter Canada if you are travelling with a valid U.S. passport.

New entry requirement now in effect

Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens , and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.

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Latest border and travel measures

This news release may not reflect the current border and travel measures. Check COVID-19: Travel, testing and borders for the latest requirements to enter Canada.

Important notice

Note that information and resources on the coronavirus (COVID-19) are available on Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html

Adjustments to Canada’s border and travel measures

From: Public Health Agency of Canada

Backgrounder

The Government of Canada will adjust some of Canada’s border measures beginning on Nov. 30 to include additional COVID-19 vaccines accepted for entry to Canada and changes to certain exemptions, testing and ArriveCAN requirements.

November 19, 2021

Today, the Government of Canada announced upcoming adjustments to Canada’s border measures. This backgrounder provides additional context to support travellers in understanding COVID-19 testing and vaccine requirements, as well as other border measures, which are an important part of Canada’s response to the global COVID-19 pandemic and serve to protect the health and safety of all Canadians.

Eliminating COVID-19 testing for air and land crossings of less than 72 hours

Effective November 30, 2021, fully vaccinated individuals with right of entry to Canada, who depart and re-enter the country within 72 hours of leaving Canada are exempt from providing a pre-entry COVID-19 molecular test result . This exemption is only for trips originating in Canada taken by fully vaccinated Canadian citizens, permanent residents or individuals registered under the Indian Act , who depart and re-enter by land or by air and can demonstrate they have been away from Canada for less than 72 hours.

The exemption will also apply to:

• people with medical contraindications as defined in the Orders in Council (OIC); and
• unvaccinated children under 12 who are accompanying their parent, step-parent, guardian or tutor. The accompanying adult must be fully vaccinated (or have a contraindication) and have right of entry into Canada.

For fully vaccinated travellers with right of entry into Canada who are travelling by air, the 72-hour period runs from the initially scheduled departure time for their flight leaving Canada to the scheduled departure time for their return flight to Canada. Travellers will be responsible for maintaining proof of the 72-hour period to show airline/rail companies and border officials as required (e.g., boarding pass, travel itinerary).

Expanded list of accepted vaccines for the purpose of travel

Effective November 30, 2021, the Government of Canada will expand its list of accepted vaccines for the purposes of entry into Canada and exemption from some testing and quarantine requirements. The list will include Sinopharm, Sinovac and COVAXIN, matching the World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Use Listing (EUL).

The EUL is an internationally recognized process to assess vaccines within an existing regulatory structure. The WHO uses the EUL to accelerate the availability of medical products needed in public health emergency situations. The process is based on an expert review of available data on the quality, safety, and efficacy/immunogenicity/performance of each individual product. The COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) also leverages the WHO EUL for its COVID-19 vaccine portfolio.

To be considered fully vaccinated, a traveller must have received the full series of a vaccine—or combination of vaccines— accepted by the Government of Canada at least 14 days prior to entering Canada. Travellers can receive their vaccine in any country, and must upload their proof of vaccination in English or French into ArriveCAN when travelling to Canada. If the proof of vaccination is not in English or French, travellers must provide a certified translation in English or French. Travellers must bring proof with them when they travel that includes text with the vaccinations and dates received. Travellers must also comply with all other measures under the OICs, including pre-entry testing (unless exempt) and a suitable quarantine plan. Where available, Canadians are strongly encouraged to use the Canadian COVID-19 proof of vaccination .

The expanded list of COVID-19 vaccines and the definition of what is considered fully vaccinated will also be applied to the national vaccination requirements for the federally regulated transportation sectors.

Entry Requirements: Adjustments for certain travellers entering Canada

As of January 15, 2022, certain groups of travellers, who are currently exempt from entry requirements, will only be allowed to enter the country if they are fully vaccinated with one of the vaccines approved for entry into Canada. These groups include:

• Individuals travelling to reunite with family (unless they are under 18 years of age if travelling to reunite with an immediate or extended family member who is either fully vaccinated or a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person registered under the Indian Act. )
• Fully vaccinated students will be allowed to attend any provincially or territorially designated learning institution in Canada.
• Unvaccinated students under the age of 18 must attend a designated learning institution with a COVID-19 readiness plan approved by the province or territory where the school is located.
• Professional athletes and their support staff, and amateur athletes.
• Individuals with a valid work permit, including temporary foreign workers, outside of agricultural and food processing.
• Most essential service providers (including truck drivers, emergency service providers and marine researchers).

As of November 30, 2021, travellers need to be fully vaccinated to travel within Canada with very few exceptions. There is a limited period, until January 14, 2022, during which individuals in specified exempt groups can continue to enter the country if unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, as well as take a connecting flight to their final destination that is scheduled to depart within 24 hours of the departure time of their flight to enter Canada. However, if they remain unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, they will not be allowed to take a plane or train beyond their original connection, except to depart Canada before February 28, 2022. As such, all travellers are strongly advised to make plans to get vaccinated as soon as they can, in order to travel freely in and outside the country.

On January 15, 2022, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers will only be allowed to enter Canada if they meet one of the limited exceptions, including:

• agricultural and food processing workers;
• foreign marine crew members;
• those entering on compassionate grounds;
• new permanent residents;
• newly resettled refugees;
• children under the age of 18 who are currently exempt from the travel restrictions, including international students who are studying at a designated learning institution that has a COVID-19 readiness plan; those travelling with a parent, step-parent, tutor or guardian who is either fully vaccinated, or a Canadian citizen, permanent resident of Canada or person registered under the Indian Act ; and those travelling to reunite with immediate or extended Canadian family members in Canada; and
• national interest exemptions.

Unvaccinated children under the age of 12 who are travelling with fully vaccinated adults do not need to quarantine BUT must follow public measures:

• Attend school, camp or day care.
• Attend a setting where they may have contact with vulnerable people (e.g., long term care facility), including people who are immunocompromised, regardless of that person’s vaccination status or public health measures.
• Travel on crowded public transportation that does not ensure physical distancing and masking.
• Attend large crowded settings, indoors or outdoors, such as an amusement park or sporting event.
• In addition, the child must take COVID-19 molecular tests as instructed, unless their parent, step-parent, tutor or guardian has evidence that the child had a positive COVID-19 test taken 10 to 180 days prior to arrival in Canada or the child is under 5 years of age.

Unless exempt, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers eligible to enter Canada will be required to:

• have proof of a negative molecular pre-entry test taken no more than 72 hours before their flight’s initial scheduled departure time or arrival at the land border, or a previous positive COVID-19 molecular test taken within 10 and 180 days before arrival;
• complete arrival (day 1) and post-arrival (day 8) testing;
• quarantine for 14 days in a suitable place; and
• submit all of the information above in ArriveCAN via the free mobile app or website.

ArriveCAN: New requirements for essential travellers

As of November 30, 2021, all exempt essential service providers will be required to identify their vaccination status in ArriveCAN , regardless of whether or not they are allowed to enter as unvaccinated. ArriveCAN will prompt them to provide details on their vaccine(s), including manufacturer, country received and date received, and to upload their proof of vaccination.

Exempt essential travellers include those travelling as/for:

• most essential service providers (including most temporary foreign workers, emergency service providers and marine researchers);
• cross-border work (e.g., you regularly cross the border to work);
• medical and health care support (e.g., health care practitioner, to receive medical care, or to transport medical equipment or supplies);
• trade and transport (e.g., truck driver or crew member on any aircraft, shipping vessel, or train); and
• people who live in integrated trans-border communities.

If an exempt essential traveller previously created a reusable ArriveCAN receipt, they will be required to either download the latest version of the free ArriveCAN mobile app or sign in to the web version after November 30, 2021, and re-submit all of their information, including the newly required information on proof of vaccinations, to get a new exempt reusable ArriveCAN receipt. Once an exempt traveller creates a new reusable receipt, the receipt can be used for subsequent trips.

Until January 15, 2022, if an exempt essential traveller is not vaccinated, they will still be able to get an ArriveCAN receipt. After January 15, 2022, they must be fully vaccinated to get an ArriveCAN receipt. As of this date, most travellers who are currently exempt from quarantine will need to be fully vaccinated to enter Canada. They will also be required to upload their proof of vaccination in ArriveCAN.

Mandatory vaccination for federally regulated transportation sectors

As announced on August 13, 2021 , travellers in the federally regulated air and rail sectors will need to be vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine accepted by the Government of Canada for the purpose of travel. After extensive consultations, Transport Canada issued orders and guidance to airlines and railways to implement the vaccination requirements for travellers, which came into effect at 3 AM (EDT) October 30, 2021.

The vaccination requirements apply to all travellers, 12 years of age plus four months, who are:

• Air passengers flying on domestic, trans-border or international flights departing from most airports in Canada; and
• Rail passengers on VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains.

As of November 30, 2021, a valid COVID-19 test will no longer be accepted as an alternative to vaccination for travel within Canada. To take a flight or a train, travellers must be fully vaccinated with one of the expanded list of vaccinations unless they qualify for a limited exemption to this requirement. These include:

• Medical inability to be vaccinated;
• Essential or urgent medical services and treatment;
• Sincere religious beliefs;
• Emergency travel; and
• Other travel in the national interest.

For domestic and outbound travel, airlines and railways will administer the process for considering a traveller’s medical inability to be vaccinated, essential medical services and treatment, sincere religious beliefs, and emergency/urgent travel (including for urgent medical reasons). Travellers who think they may be eligible for one of these exemptions should contact their airline or railway company to obtain the necessary form and submit it in accordance with their carrier’s approval process (forms available starting November 30, 2021).

Transport Canada will administer exemptions for other domestic and outbound travel in the national interest. Travellers granted an exemption will need to have a valid COVID-19 molecular test, taken no more than 72 hours before boarding a regulated flight or train. Travellers will be able to submit applications under the domestic National Interest Exemption Program starting November 30.

Airlines and railways will continue to be responsible for confirming the vaccination status of travellers. In the aviation mode, the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) will also support operators by confirming vaccination status.

This vaccination requirement continues to include specific accommodation to recognize the unique needs of travellers from small, remote communities (some of which are not accessible by road) to ensure they will be able to travel to obtain essential services in support of their medical, health, or social well-being, and return safely to their homes. The specific requirements for these communities will continue to evolve based on engagement with Indigenous organizations and provinces and territories in the coming weeks.

Transport Canada continues to work with the cruise ship industry, and other domestic and international partners, to permit the safe re-opening of Canada to cruise ship travel in spring 2022, including the specific vaccination requirements for cruise ship passengers, and other health protocols. Additional information will be available in the coming weeks.

The Government of Canada will continue to engage with key stakeholders, employers, airlines and railways, bargaining agents, Indigenous Peoples, local authorities, and provinces and territories to support the implementation of the vaccination requirement.

For travellers entering Canada: While Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and persons registered under the Indian Act will still be able to enter Canada if they are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, they will not be permitted to travel beyond their point of entry within Canada on a connecting flight or by rail. These travellers should plan their return accordingly by selecting a Canadian airport that is closest to their final destination, and expect to be subject to testing and quarantine.

After January 15, 2022, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated agricultural and agri-food workers, new permanent residents, and some children under the age of 18 will still be allowed to travel onward domestically to get established in Canada, but will also continue to be subject to testing and quarantine. Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated resettled refugees will continue to be allowed to enter Canada and stringent health and safety protocols remain in place.

Foreign nationals who reside in Canada temporarily, and who entered Canada as unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, will be allowed to leave the country without being fully vaccinated up until February 28, 2022. After that time, foreign nationals will need to be fully vaccinated to board a flight or train in Canada.

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Travel Advisory July 17, 2023

Canada - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Canada.

Read the Country Information page for additional information on travel to Canada.

If you decide to travel to Canada: 

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Canada.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.  Exercise normal precautions in Canada.

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Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Ottawa

490 Sussex Drive Ottawa, Ontario K1N 1G8 Canada Telephone:  +1 (613) 688-5335 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (613) 238-5335 Fax:  +1 (613) 688-3082 Email:   [email protected]

The Ottawa consular district includes the counties of Kingston, Lanark, Leeds, Prescott, Refrew, Russell, and Stormont in Eastern Ontario, and those parts of the Québec regions of Outaouais and Abitibi-Témiscamingue near Ottawa.

U.S. Consulate General Montreal

1134 Rue Ste- Catherine West Montréal, Quebec H3B 1H4 Canada Telephone:  +1 (514) 398-9695 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (416) 645-9124 Fax:  +1 (514) 398-9748 Email:  [email protected]

The Montreal consular district includes Greater Montreal and the regions of Southern Quebec Province (Laurentides, Lanaudiere, Laval, Montreal, Montregie, Estrie, and the southern parts of Centre-du-Quebec), including Joliete, Drummondville, and Sherbrooke.

U.S. Consulate General Toronto

360 University Ave Toronto, Ontario M5G 1S4 Canada Telephone:  +1 (416) 595-1700 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (416) 201-4056 Fax:  +1 (416) 595-5466 Email:  [email protected]

The consular district includes the province of Ontario except for the counties of Kingston, Lanark, Leeds, Prescott, Refrew, Russell, and Stormont, which are served by the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa.

U.S. Consulate General Vancouver

1075 West Pender Street Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 2M6 Canada Telephone:  +1 (604) 685-4311 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (604) 685-4311 Fax:  +1 (604) 685-7175 Email:  [email protected]

The consular district includes British Columbia and the Yukon Territory.

U.S. Consulate General Halifax

Purdy's Wharf Tower II 1969 Upper Water Street, Suite 904 Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3R7 Canada Telephone:  +1 (902) 429-2480 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (902) 429-2480, Press 1 Email:  [email protected]

The Halifax consular district includes New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and the French islands of Saint Pierre and Miquelon.

U.S. Consulate Winnipeg

201 Portage Avenue, Suite 860 Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 3K6 Canada Telephone:  +1 (204) 940-1800 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (403) 266-8962 and press "0" for assistance (Consulate General Calgary) Fax:  +1 (204) 940-1809

The Consulate in Winnipeg provides only emergency services for U.S. citizens. Routine services such as visas, passports and notarials are handled at other U.S. Consulates General, primarily Calgary.

U.S. Consulate General Quebec  2, rue de la Terrasse Dufferin (Vieux Quebec, behind Chateau Frontenac) Quebec, Quebec G1R 4T9 Canada Telephone:  +1 (418) 692-2095 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (418) 692-2096 Fax:  +1 (418) 692-4640 Email:   [email protected]

The consular district includes Quebec City and those regions of Quebec Province to the North and East of the Montreal and Ottawa Districts (indicated above) – to include the area around Saguenay/Lac Saint-Jean, Rimouski and the Gaspé Peninsula – as well as the Territory of Nunavut.

U.S. Consulate General Calgary  615 Macleod Trail S.E., 10th Floor Calgary, Alberta T2G 4T8 Canada Telephone:  +1 (403) 266-8962 Fax:  +1 (403) 264-6630 Email:   [email protected] The consular district includes Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories, excluding Nunavut.

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Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

For tourist visits to Canada of less than 180 days, U.S. citizens do not need visas. Other types of travel generally require visas. Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for current information.

If you have a criminal record, you may be unable to enter Canada. To determine whether you are criminally inadmissible and get information about how to overcome this finding, refer to the  IRCC website .  Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officials determine if you can enter Canada in accordance with Canadian law.  

Travel Programs:  Both the U.S. and Canadian governments urge frequent travelers to join the  NEXUS trusted traveler program .

Entry into Canada:  Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry proof of citizenship and identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens.

Children under 16 only need proof of U.S. citizenship.

Entry into the United States:  When traveling by air from Canada, U.S. citizens must present a U.S. passport book or other approved identification document. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website provides a full list of allowable documents.

Travel with Minors:  If you plan to travel to Canada with a minor for whom you do not have full legal custody, CBSA may require a letter of authorization from the minor’s parents or legal guardian(s). Please refer to the  CBSA website  for more details.

Private Boaters Entering Canada:  Canadian law requires all foreign private boaters, including recreational vessels, to present themselves upon their arrival in Canada to the CBSA. See the  CBSA website  for relevant reporting requirements.

Private Boaters Exiting Canada: Boaters may report their arrival to the United States or apply for a registered boater program using the CBP Reporting Offsite Arrival – Mobile (CBP ROAM) app. Please visit the  CBP ROAM webpage for more information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to Canada. For information on restrictions for HIV positive foreign residents of Canada visit the IRCC website .

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

911 is the emergency telephone number in Canada.

Crime: Although Canada generally has a lower crime rate than the United States, violent crimes occur throughout the country, especially in urban areas. Criminals may target parked cars, especially in large cities and popular tourist destination, for opportunistic smash-and-grab thefts. Do not leave unattended possessions in a vehicle, even in the trunk. Some jurisdictions such as Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver may fine you for leaving your car doors unlocked or for leaving valuables in view. Pickpockets may target you, especially in popular tourist areas. Exercise caution. Safeguard yourself and your property.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

While there is a very small likelihood of violence at a political gathering in Canada, we strongly encourage U.S. citizens to avoid all protests and demonstrations and maintain a high level of vigilance and practice good situational awareness when traveling abroad.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.  Report crimes to the local police at 911 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +1(613) 688-5335. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

•    Help you find appropriate medical care

•    Assist you in reporting a crime to the police

•    Contact relatives or friends with your written consent

•    Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion

•    Provide a list of local attorneys

•    Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.

•    Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution

•    Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home

•    Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulates for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. 

Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. If you are considering travel outside of populated areas, particularly in the northern Arctic territories, you need to know that search and rescue capabilities are limited because of extreme isolation and the harsh climate. You must be prepared for significant delays in receiving emergency assistance in these areas and plan accordingly.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .  

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Controlled Substances:  Canadian law prohibits possession and trafficking of controlled substances and narcotics, including some substances that may be legal to possess under the law of certain U.S. states. Canada has legalized the personal consumption of recreational cannabis, but Canadian law prohibits taking cannabis across Canada’s national borders . Drug smugglers risk substantial fines, a permanent bar from Canada, and imprisonment.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
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• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad  

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Visitors bringing any firearms or ammunition into Canada must declare the firearms in writing using a Non-Resident Firearm Declaration form. If you plan to borrow and use a firearm in Canada, you must obtain a Temporary Firearms Borrowing License in advance. You must present these forms in triplicate and sign them in front of a CBSA officer at the border. (It is not possible to make photocopies at the border). Full details and downloadable forms are available at the Canadian Firearms Program website .

Canadian law requires officials to confiscate firearms, ammunition, and other weapons from persons crossing the border who do not declare having the items in their possession. Officials will not return confiscated firearms, ammunition, and weapons and possession of any of these items may result in your arrest and imprisonment. You should inspect all belongings thoroughly before traveling to Canada to avoid the accidentally importing firearms, ammunition, or other weapons.

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Canada. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Pornography: Canada has strict laws concerning child pornography, and in recent years there has been an increase in random checks of electronic media of travelers entering Canada.

Canadian officials may search your computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices without a warrant at the border and illegal content can result in the seizure of the device as well as detention, arrest, and prosecution of the bearer.

Tax Issues:  For information on U.S. Federal tax issues, please refer to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website for international taxpayers .

• Refer to this link for reporting requirements regarding Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) .
• Refer to this link for information on the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) .
• Refer to this link for information about the Voluntary Disclosure Practice .

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Canada prohibitsdiscrimination against persons with physical or mental disabilities and the law is enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. For more information, visit the Accessibility Standards Canada website .

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Canada, dial 911 . Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Health Canada to ensure the medication is legal in Canada.

Healthcare in Canada : The level of public health and sanitation in Canada is high. Adequate health facilities are available throughout Canada.  Canada’s medical care is of a high standard but is government controlled. Access to ongoing medical care is difficult for temporary visitors who are not members of a Canadian province’s government-run health care plan. Many physicians will not take new patients. Specialist care is only by referral and may take months to obtain. Although trauma-care is on par with that in the United States, emergency room waits for non-life threatening problems can be very long. Some health care professionals in the Quebec may only speak French.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all CDC-recommended vaccinations .

Further health information:

World Health Organization U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Air Quality:  Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery: We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.

Pharmaceuticals:  U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:  If you are considering traveling to Canada to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  As in the United States, all emergency assistance in Canada can be reached by dialing 911.

For detailed information on road conditions throughout Canada, as well as links to provincial government websites, please see the Transport Canada website or the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) website. The CAA honors American Automobile Association memberships. Automobile warranties of vehicles purchased in the United States may not be valid in Canada.

Winter travel can be dangerous due to heavy snowfalls and hazardous icy conditions. Some provinces require snow tires. CAA has tips for winter driving . Both winter conditions and wildfires may prompt the sudden closure of highways. Provincial ministries of transport typically post closures and other alerts about road conditions on their websites.

Traffic Laws:  Driving in Canada is similar to driving in many parts of the United States. Distances and speeds, however, are posted in kilometers per hour and some signs, particularly in Québec, may only be in French. U.S. driver’s licenses are valid for visitors in Canada. Proof of auto insurance is required. U.S. auto insurance is accepted  for tourists in Canada. For specific information concerning Canadian driving permits, mandatory insurance, and entry regulations, please contact the Canadian National Tourist Organization .

Some provinces require drivers to keep their vehicles’ headlights on during the day and some have banned driving while using a hand-held cell phone. Motorcycles cannot share a lane, and safety helmets for motorcycle riders and passengers are mandatory.

It is illegal to take automobile radar detectors into Québec, Ontario, Manitoba, the Yukon, or the Northwest Territories, regardless of whether they are used. Police may confiscate radar detectors and impose substantial fines.

Drivers approaching border crossings into the United States may encounter traffic backups. Drivers should be alert, as lane restrictions at border approaches exist for drivers in NEXUS and FAST expedited inspection programs.

Public Transportation: Public transportation options vary across Canada, but all cities and most major towns have a public transit system .

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Canada’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Canada’s air carrier operations.  Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Canada should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

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• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Canada .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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How Canadians can travel to the United State (entry rules for all nationalities)

• Post author: Andrew D'Amours
• Post published: May 1, 2023
• Post category: Travel tips / Trip planning tips
• Post comments: 171 Comments

OFFICIALLY CONFIRMED: The United States vaccination requirement is ending on May 11th at the end of the day! Here are the current rules.

The united states is statistically the most popular destination for canadians (by far), and travelers from many other countries love going there as well. unfortunately, there are still covid-19 travel requirements in the usa (even though it’s not logical)..

As part of Flytrippers’ mission to help travelers, here is a complete guide on how to travel to the United States specifically. This guide is for all nationalities, as the USA’s COVID-19 rules are the same for Canadians, for Brits, or for Indians for example.

(By the way, for Canadians, Flytrippers always spots cheap flight deals to the USA on its main page , and there are currently 2 very good Aeroplan welcome bonuses that each give you 5 roundtrip reward flights to the USA — the American Express Cobalt Card , one of the highest currently available in Canada and always the best card overall, or the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card with an increased offer ending May 28th!)

Here’s how to travel to the United States right now.

Overview of how to travel to the United States

First, I’ll share the essentials you need to know about how to travel to the United States right now (since April 2021, I have gone there 15 times myself and I’m following the rules closely every day for you).

Then below, I’ll give you:

• ALL the details about every aspect of the USA rules
• The simplified step-by-step process to travel to the USA (based on your vaccination status)

So here’s the infographic that visually summarizes the USA’s rules.

Here are the basics of the rules to travel to the USA:

• Especially rules that are as antiscience as these
• No rules to board flights itself and no rules to exit
• There has never been anything other than rules for entry
• As in every other country by the way (except Canada🤡)
• Congress and the CDC have made recent announcements 
• That had nothing to do with removing the entry rules
• They have not confirmed it would be renewed
• They have not confirmed it would not be renewed
• Join 100,000+ savvy and well-informed travelers

Here are the rules themselves:

• Proof of a negative test cannot replace proof of vaccination
• Entry by air, including transits (from all countries)
• Entry by land (from Canada and Mexico)
• Entry by sea (ONLY from Canada and Mexico)
• Entry by sea (from countries OTHER than Canada and Mexico)
• For example by ferry from the Bahamas or the Dominican Republic

And here are a few important details about the requirement:

• It’s not often enforced by land
• There are a few exemptions, especially for all minors
• The definition of “vaccinated” was just changed
• The definition is still very broad — and objectively outdated
• Many types of proof are accepted (no QR code required)
• There are 2 government websites for all the official details

Details of how to travel to the United States

Here’s all the information you need about COVID-19 travel rules in the USA.

Logic of the rules to travel to the USA

There is absolutely no rational or scientific justification possible for these current rules in the USA; it’s not even debatable.

The experts at the World Health Organization (WHO) have recommended eliminating all restrictions since January 2022 (over 15 months ago) and almost every country has eliminated everything (even Canada, that was among worst in terms of covidanxiety)!

The WHO analysis demonstrated that restrictions had no impact at all (completely unsurprisingly for all those who kept their critical thinking skills instead of just blindly believing everything politicians say).

President Biden said the pandemic was over, their public health agency said having rules based on vaccination status no longer made sense, and every epidemiology expert said that vaccines received 2 years ago don’t protect any more…

So naturally , the USA still has a rule based on vaccination status that accepts a vaccine received 2+ years ago (but not a negative test or proof of immunity) and that is not even in effect if you arrive by certain countries by boat to boot…

And it’s those who criticize that who are wrong according to some who won’t get over all this until 2025, if ever…

Rules to travel once you’ve entered the USA

There has never been any requirement for a domestic flight in the USA (like in almost every county in the world) or for exiting the USA.

There are only rules for entry , it’s that simple.

Once you’ve entered (no matter how), there are no requirements for domestic flights (no matter who you are or your nationality). International flights that depart from the USA (including to return to Canada by plane) only apply the entry rules for that destination (if any). Because entry rules are the only thing that exist.

It’s one of the reasons why many Canadians fly out of American airports across the border .

Finally, some American territories (and even the state of Hawaii) had their own stricter entry rules IN ADDITION to the federal entry rules, but this is no longer the case.

Confusion around the rules to travel to the USA

Many people (including many media outlets) often mix up plenty of different travel rules and announcements together .

Absolutely nothing has changed to the vaccination requirement itself since the start, except the changes to the definition of “vaccinated” (the vaccines accepted), as recently as April 2023. That hasn’t changed anything about the end date for the requirement.

Congress has voted on the national emergency declaration (both the House and Senate), but that has nothing to do with entry rules. Even the USA’s other state of emergency, the public health state of emergency, is completely distinct and separate from the requirements for travelers.

The House of Representatives actually did vote to end the vaccination requirement for travelers back in early February, but the Senate needs to do the same and has done nothing since February 2023. We’re following this too.

End date for the rules to travel to the USA

The current requirement theoretically expires at the end of the day on May 11th . It’s not certain though! Every previous time, the requirement was extended about 1 week before the expiry date.

NOTHING has been announced. Not an extension, not a removal. Nothing.

As soon as something is announced, this guide will be updated! May 4th should be the day when an announcement is done, based on the previous extensions. We should know by the end of this week either way!

This time, it seems plausible for the requirement not to be extended at least.

Because Biden announced a long time ago that the public health emergency will end May 11. This has nothing to do with the entry requirement per se (it’s completely separate), but it likely means the vaccination requirement will end then too.

Especially since they extended it until the 11th (instead of the 10th the previous time) to coincide with the end of the state of emergency. They extended it for just 1 month and 1 day (instead of 3 months the previous time), so it’s looking good.

Many find it strange that they updated the definition of “vaccinated” twice in April 2023 (after making zero changes at all to the requirement since it’s been in place in November 2021) if they were going to remove it just a few weeks later. Indeed, but that was probably just to align with the new CDC recommendations.

I still believe the removal of the requirement on May 11th is the most likely scenario . But nothing is guaranteed, especially when they clearly don’t care about being logical.

Updates about the rules to travel to the USA

If you want to be the first to receive all the updates about the American rules (whether it’s an extension of the requirement), sign up for our free newsletter .

(Over 100,000 people already receive all our content for savvy travelers!)

Free newsletter for travelers

Test requirement to travel to the USA

There is no COVID-19 test requirement to travel to the United States since June 2022.

There is also no option to provide proof of a negative test as an alternative to proof of vaccination (it’s one of the only countries in the world with such an antiscience rule).

Requirements to transit in the USA

The rules are exactly the same if you are just connecting in an American airport on your way to one of the many countries open to Canadian travelers or if you are just going to the USA. It’s one of the few countries in the world where sterile international transits simply do not exist.

Transiting in the USA has therefore always required you to enter the country the same as those who aren’t transiting. And that means you always had to follow all the same entry rules even if you just have a layover in the USA (which is far from being the case for connections in other countries).

You can read the detailed article about the transits in the United States during COVID-19 .

Vaccination requirement to travel to the USA

The United States has a vaccination requirement for almost all modes of entry.

You need to be vaccinated if you enter the USA:

• By air, including transits (from all countries)
• By land (from Canada and Mexico)
• By sea (ONLY from Canada and Mexico)

You do not need to be vaccinated if you enter the USA:

• By sea (from countries OTHER than Canada and Mexico)

It’s really true! Absurdly, the requirement doesn’t apply everywhere : there are absolutely no COVID-19 requirements if you enter by ferry from the Dominican Republic or the Bahamas, for example).

Flytrippers exclusive: Borders where the USA vaccination requirement does not apply

Quite the science, right? Maybe the sea breeze in those very specific locations purifies your body of COVID-19?

(“Every rule is based on science!”)

Enforcement of the rules to travel to the USA

Just because the rule exists doesn’t mean it’s always enforced though!

By air, airlines are the only ones in charge of enforcing the requirement, not customs agents. Airlines are applying it less and less strictly (definitely not 100% of the time), but they apply it often .

By land, it’s really not enforced very strictly . Many customs agents don’t ask anything at all and among those who ask a question about vaccination, most don’t ask for proof. We’ve received hundreds of testimonials and it doesn’t seem to be asked often.

By sea (from Canada or Mexico), we didn’t get many testimonials unfortunately. We can assume it’s similar to the land border, since customs agents are in charge of enforcement there too.

By sea (from countries OTHER than Canada or Mexico), I repeat that it’s not just not enforced: it’s really that the rule simply does NOT exist . It’s the only way that’s guaranteed to work for those who are not vaccinated, according to the official rules.

Exemptions to the rules to travel to the USA

There are 4 main exemptions to the United States vaccination requirement:

• Those who are American
• Those who are under 18
• Those on some “essential” trips
• Those with proof of medical exemptions

Americans (including certain types of immigrants) are all exempt, because all along the pandemic, a country’s entry restrictions never applied to their own citizens (even though a lot of people had a hard time understanding this). It’s in part why the rule still exists: many Americans don’t even know it still exists since they’re exempt (or don’t care since they’re exempt).

The most relevant exemption for foreign travelers is that all minors are completely exempt . To be very clear, there is NO requirement for anyone under the age of 18. That simple.

Essential trips that are exempt include trips for airplane crews and boat crews, diplomatic/government trips, humanitary/emergency trips, and trips approved by certain Cabinet secretaries (their equivalent of ministers).

Finally, medical exemptions include those who participated in certain vaccine trials and those who have proof of medical contraindication for the vaccine (with a signed letter from a doctor).

Definition of “vaccinated” to travel to the USA

This was recently updated (on April 19th and April 27th).

The definition of “vaccinated” is very broad in the USA (and still outdated scientifically). This definition is obviously not necessarily the same in every country.

You are considered vaccinated by the USA if you have:

• The accepted proof of your vaccination (see next section)
• The number of doses required (either 1 or 2 doses, depending on the type)
• The minimum period after your last required dose (14 days)

Here are the vaccines accepted with just 1 dose :

• Johnson & Johnson/Janssen
• CanSinoBIO/Convidecia
• Pfizer-BioNTech Bivalent (or received AFTER August 16th, 2022)
• Moderna Bivalent (or received AFTER August 16th, 2022)

Here are the vaccines accepted if you have received 2 doses :

• Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty (if received BEFORE August 16th, 2022)
• Moderna/Spikevax (if received BEFORE August 16th, 2022)
• AstraZeneca/Vaxzevria
• BIBP/Sinopharm
• CoronaVac/Sinovac
• Nuvaxovid/Novavax

There is a minimum wait time of 14 days after your last required dose as mentioned.

But there is no maximum validity period for your doses. So even vaccines received over 2 years ago are accepted. No booster dose is required, rendering all this very antiscientific.

To be very clear, if you got Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna, only 1 dose is required if was received AFTER August 16th 2022. You can still enter with those types of vaccines if you got them before, but then you need 2 doses. That’s what just changed.

Proof of vaccination to travel to the USA

Having a QR code is not necessary, contrary to another common myth.

First, the proof must have 4 mandatory things:

• Your full name AND either your date of birth or passport number
• The source of the proof (name of the country, health agency, or provider)
• The vaccine type (manufacturer)
• The vaccination date

Officially, there are 3 options accepted as proof:

• Vaccination certificate with QR code
• Digital pass via Smartphone application with QR code
• “Canadian” vaccine passport for travel
• United Kingdom National Health Service COVID Pass
• European Union Digital COVID Certificate
• Printout of COVID-19 vaccination record
• Printout of a COVID-19 vaccination certificate
• Must have been issued at national or subnational level or by an authorized vaccine provider
• The CDC vaccination card
• Digital photos of vaccination card or record
• Downloaded vaccine record from official source
• Downloaded vaccination certificate from official source
• Public health agency
• Government agency
• Other authorized vaccine provider
• Mobile phone application without QR code

The proof doesn’t officially need to be in English, but in the case of entry by air, since airlines are the ones who verify, they need to be able to read it and they may have their own language requirements.

Like anything in the world of travel, it’s simpler if it’s in English.

Official government websites to travel to the USA

For all your trips, you always need to look at the countries’ entry rules.

For rules related to COVID-19, it could not be any simpler to find them: the official database with all the entry rules is the same for literally every country ! It’s the IATA website .

Official database for every country's travel rules

However, what is not as simple is finding the specifics for each country’s rules.

For the United States, there are 2 government websites with all the official information:

• CDC website (requirement by air)
• U.S. CBP website (requirement by land and by sea from Canada/Mexico)

The CDC website is the one with the most information if you have questions about something we haven’t covered in this guide.

Timeline of rules to travel to the USA

Here are all the relevant dates and announcements since 2021:

• Vaccination requirement in effect
• Until November 8th, 2022 (theoretically)
• Test requirement in effect
• End of test requirement
• Extension of vaccination requirement announced
• Until January 8th, 2023 (theoretically)
• Until April 10th, 2023 (theoretically)
• Elimination of the national state of emergency announced
• Elimination of the public health emergency announced
• Planned for May 11th, 2023
• Vote against the vaccination requirement in the U.S. House
• No impact (the Senate would need to pass this too)
• Vote to end the national state of emergency in the Senate
• No impact on the vaccination requirement
• Until May 11th, 2023 (theoretically)
• End of the national state of emergency 
• New definition of “vaccinated” announced
• Change to the new definition of “vaccinated” announced
• End of the national state of emergency (planned
• Theoretical end of the vaccination requirement ( to be continued )

Step-by-step process to travel to the USA (based on vaccination status)

As a reminder, if you haven’t read how to travel during the pandemic , there are always the same 2 simple sets of rules for any trip and any destination:

• To enter the countries where you are going to
• To enter Canada for your return (or your own country if it’s another one)

There are no other pandemic rules, it’s really not that complicated.

Here are the details of those rules for trips to the United States, based on your vaccination status.

Vaccinated adult travelers: Rules to travel to the USA

Here is how vaccinated Canadian adults can currently travel to the USA based on those 2 sets of rules you always have to look at.

Set of rules #1

• You do not need anything at all to enter the USA, just your proof of vaccination

Set of rules #2

• All rules have been lifted for all travelers

Basically, it’s very simple if you’re vaccinated: Enter the USA by land or by air with no requirement (you can then fly anywhere in the country test-free  of course).

Then there is nothing left to enter Canada.

We recommend joining savvy travelers like me and becoming a NEXUS member , it makes everything infinitely faster: you’ll avoid almost all wait lines for travel in Canada and the USA. Another pro tip that’s so simple but that most people, unfortunately, don’t even know exists.

Unvaccinated adult travelers: Rules to travel to the USA

Here is how unvaccinated Canadian adults can currently travel to the USA based on the mode of entry.

Entering the USA by land while unvaccinated

It’s simple: Unvaccinated Canadian adults theoretically cannot enter the United States by land at all since November 8, 2021.

Since many of you keep asking: yes, thousands of unvaccinated Canadians have entered the USA by land for over a year.

That’s because most customs agents don’t even ask about your vaccination status. And if they do ask, they often only ask if you are vaccinated without asking for proof. They certainly don’t ask often, based on my own experience and the many many testimonials we’ve received.

To be clear, if they ask for your vaccination status and you tell them you are not vaccinated, they will always deny your entry. When the land border was closed, I tried entering for an essential trip and I was denied entry (my business trip wasn’t essential enough). The agent explained that this had no consequences and did not affect my NEXUS membership or anything at all, and I had no issues entering after it reopened (of course that’s a different context for a denied entry obviously).

If you happened to go to the USA by land and they didn’t ask anything (or if they did ask and you lied and they didn’t ask for proof), you would not need a test, as nobody needs a test by land.

You could then fly anywhere in the country vaccine-free and test-free of course, as the USA has never had any requirement for domestic travel (like almost every country in the world).

You would not need anything to enter Canada upon your return (you could even fly back to Canada directly obviously), because all of Canada’s rules have been lifted for all travelers.

Entering the USA by sea while unvaccinated

The rules by water are exactly the same as by land if you arrive from Canada or Mexico.

However, you can enter by ferry from the Dominican Republic or the Bahamas with no requirements. That’s allowed. Because “The Science™”!

Entering the USA by air while unvaccinated

As mentioned, those who want to go somewhere in the USA by plane usually prefer entering by land and hope the customs agent doesn’t ask about their vaccination (or lie and hope they don’t ask for proof) and then fly anywhere in the country from a USA airport near the border.

Because as you probably know, while Canada lifted the mandatory vaccination requirement to fly from a Canadian airport (a requirement no other country in the world ever had), the USA requires vaccination for entry by air.

And the airlines usually do check, unlike most land border agents. Although they are asking less and less.

On my trip during the Christmas holidays, my girlfriend was never asked for her proof of vaccination (and it was her 1st entry into the USA by air since the vaccination requirement was implemented; so it’s not like they had it saved from a previous trip or something). I wasn’t asked either in January 2023, same for Flytrippers’ other cofounder, and many other recent testimonials we received.

But that’s probably still more of an exception than anything else, maybe airlines just do random checks now. It’s riskier to book a plane ticket and hope they don’t ask (compared to trying at the land border, as domestic flights in the USA usually no longer have change fees).

If you tried it and managed to enter the USA by air, you wouldn’t need anything to return to Canada because all of Canada’s rules have been lifted for all travelers.

Children: Rules to travel to the USA

It’s simple, there is an exemption to enter the USA without being vaccinated for all minors (under 18).

Here is how vaccinated OR unvaccinated Canadian minors can currently travel to the USA based on those 2 sets of rules you always have to look at.

• All minors (under 18) are exempt from the vaccination requirement
• Nobody needs a test so kids don’t either

Want to get all the coronavirus updates about travel rules in the USA?

Sign up for our free newsletter.

It’s really quite simple to understand the rules that determine how Canadians can travel to the United States. You just need to know how to read — and take the time to do it.

What do you want to know about traveling to the United States? Tell us in the comments below.

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My Experience Canceling My Flight Due To The Coronavirus (Thanks To Twitter)

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Hi, so am I understanding this right ? Is it ACTUALLY official that the US entry vaccine mandate is ending on May 11th ?

Yes 🙂 https://flytrippers.com/usa-vaccination-requirement-travel/

Hi Andrew, thanks for your posts – very helpful and informative. For flying out of Toronto via Air Canada, is one required to upload any documents during the web check-in or at the self check-in kiosk at the airport? Or attest to the vax status?

Hi, the last time I flew Air Canada to the USA was on December 31st and they never asked for proof at all (so not in the online check-in either), even though it was my girlfriend’s first time flying into the USA during the pandemic (so they couldn’t have had her info “saved” or anything like that). Of course we always only travel with carry-ons so maybe avoiding the Air Canada counters entirely is the key to not being asked anything, who knows. They will ask you to attest that you are vaccinated though, that is for sure (in the online check-in at least).

When do you think the US will make an announcement about ending the requirement on May 11?

Probably in early May.

so the finally step is for biden to approve it since the senate has passed the bill right?

No, the Senate has not passed anything related to the vaccination requirement unfortunately (the House did, and they read it in the Senate on February 13th with absolutely no other actions since). What the Senate passed has nothing to do with the vaccination requirement. See here: https://flytrippers.com/usa-state-of-emergency-pandemic/

so what do you think the chances are that it gets passed through the senate and biden by may 11?

Slim to none, unfortunately.

so you don’t think it will be lifted may 11?

Do you only need one vaccine now to travel to the USA? just trying to get things clarified

Yes still more likely to be lifted on May 11th than not, but not thanks to the Senate. You can now enter with just 1 dose depending on what vaccine, here’s the section of this post with the details: https://flytrippers.com/how-canadians-travel-united-states/#Definition_of_vaccinated_for_travel_to_the_USA

Pfizer-BioNTech Comirnaty is this the new one? it’s hard to find things online about this

No, not Comirnaty (that’s the old one that requires 2 doses). It’s Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine (Bivalent) and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine (Bivalent).

Just for the record, I was asked if I am vaccinated at the land crossing Windsor to Detroit. He then asked for proof whereby my drivers license and Ontario health card were scanned. After waiting with the nice people in the car search area for a little while I was given a piece of paper to give to Canada customs and sent back home. Thanks for the testimonial, and hopefully this will all end soon 🙂

Yes, unfortunately, some agents ask for proof even if you say you’re vaccinated. It’s not 100% guaranteed to work at the land border.

If customs asks for proof of vaccination, will they scan the QR code at the land border? Canada to USA

No QR code is required, so no. All that is required is a proof of vaccination, can be paper only as long as it’s in English and has the required info. Here’s what they require (either of the 3 options works): -Vaccination certificate with QR code1, digital pass via Smartphone application with QR code1 (e.g., United Kingdom National Health Service COVID Pass, European Union Digital COVID Certificate) -Printout of COVID-19 vaccination record or a COVID-19 vaccination certificate issued at national or subnational level or by an authorized vaccine provider (e.g., the CDC vaccination card) -Digital photos of vaccination card or record, downloaded vaccine record or vaccination certificate from official source (e.g., public health agency, government agency, or other authorized vaccine provider), or a mobile phone application without QR code

There is another, legal method to enter the US for unvaccinated adults. It is expensive on time and money, but I have done it myself and know others who have as well.

1. Fly to the Bahams without any layovers in the USA (example: Toronto -> Nassau) 2. Fly from Nassau to Grand Bahamas 3. Take the Baleària Caribbean from Grand Bahamas to Florida

The reason this is legal is because there are currently 3 laws preventing unvaccinated non-citizens from entering the US.

1. No flights for unvaccinated into the US 2. No crossing by land or sea from Canada 3. No crossing by land or sea from Mexico

And of course, it is also very understandable once you know the Science™ behind it.

1. The 1st element of nature is Wind/Air – you must travel by air 2. The 2nd element is Water – take the Ferry from the Bahamas to Florida 3. The 3rd element is Earth – you must enter the US from land non-contiguous to the US (contiguous and contageous are basically synonyms) 4. The 4th element is Fire – CDC scientists could think of no better way to burn money than by taking 5 flights, a couple taxies, rent a few hotel rooms and a car, and paying for a boat ride to get somewhere you could have gotten by hoping in your car and driving 30 minutes. 5. It never harms to get a fairy involved. This is science after all, right?

Interesting, I never even noticed that it didn’t apply to all borders, despite looking at this closely for years now haha. Well, if this doesn’t convince those who suffer from Covidanxiety (and blindly believe the government) that The Science™ is absurd, I really don’t know what will. Must be vaccinated to enter from Canada and Mexico. But not from The Bahamas. Make it make sense…

Thanks for the share, will definitely write a post about this, so funny.

You’re welcome! Send me a link of the post please 🙂

Governor Ron DeSantis from Florida even mentioned this recently: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYdfWaf7taI

Here are the official links:

1. Entry by land/ferry from Mexico: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/04/22/2022-08741/notification-of-temporary-travel-restrictions-applicable-to-land-ports-of-entry-and-ferries-service 2. Entry by land/ferry from Canada: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/04/22/2022-08743/notification-of-temporary-travel-restrictions-applicable-to-land-ports-of-entry-and-ferries-service 3. Entry by flight: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/04/07/2022-07450/amended-order-implementing-presidential-proclamation-on-advancing-the-safe-resumption-of-global

Here’s the post: https://flytrippers.com/how-to-enter-usa-without-vaccination/

I am only going to say the American surely know the science better then others, Hahahahaha!!

By the way, the very public issue with Novak Djokovic not being able to compete in competitions in the USA could’ve been avoided if he had known your trick. He certainly can afford flying to the Bahamas and then crossing by boat. I must say I’m really flabbergasted by all this haha.

Right. Governor Ron DeSantis offered to bring him over by boat: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYdfWaf7taI

Oh well, I reached out to ferry companies to try and confirm. Will let you know 🙂

I am currently dealing with a nightmare situation that has an immigration wrinkle in the equation… My wife (she is a Brazilian citizen, i am American. She is awaiting approval of a green card and has been granted advanced parole which allows non-US citizens in her situation to leave and re-enter the United States) and I have a vacation planned to Costa Rica in May. The presidential proclamation requiring proof of vaccination for foreigners and the CDC website very clearly states that those granted parole (as well as other buckets such as those seeking asylum) are exempt from vaccination requirements. United Airlines is saying that she is required to have proof of vaccination, and it seems to be an issue with the travel app which requires those with a Brazilian passport to enter their proof of vaccination to allow them the ability to check in for international flights going to the United States. After arguing with a United supervisor on the phone for hours today they said they would need to check with their supervisor and they would call me back tomorrow. I have never been this frustrated and it’s insane that their app requirements contradict the CDC requirements. The app even has a section which states that certain people are exempt from the requirement, but it gives no options to select one of those exemptions as applicable to you. We will see what they say tomorrow….

Yes, the country’s rules are one thing, but the airline’s interpretation of the country’s rules are actually what matters, because they are the ones that decide whether you board or not. When traveling in 2020 and 2021 particularly, I can’t even count how many times airline employees were wrong, because they often are on everything. So you have to have proof from an official source and make sure to ask for supervisors… and be prepared and ready to accept that it might not, sadly.

We are looking to book a flight from Toronto to Phuket but there is a layover in Philadelphia. Is the original vaccine certificate acceptable or do we need a qr code?

HI We successfully crossed the border in to the USA without being asked about vaccination status. WE are not vaccinated and when we tried a second time we were denied. Will our passport now be flagged so we should not try again ?

Hi, there’s no definitive answer to that. Many testimonials we got were from people who were denied in the past and just tried again and got in, so that would mean they don’t necessarily flag a previous attempt, but it’s not official data at all, unfortunately. But we never got any testimonials about anyone having been flagged from a previous attempt, for what that’s worth.

Back when the land border was open for essential and business travel only, I tried entering by land since I wanted to try out whether a trip for a travel website could be considered business. I got denied entry, and the customs agent specifically said that being denied entry had absolutely no impact on future visits. That said, I didn’t lie to them, which some travelers do to try to get in without being vaccinated. That situation might be different, but it doesn’t seem like it has any impact based on those testimonials.

Hi Andrew I want to take my 13 year old grandson from Canada to Phoenix for spring break. All I see is it is ok for him to go unvaccinated is this correct? Is there anything we need to do before we go. The USA rules are all over the place. Thank you Jolee Taylor

Well, to be fair, their rules are stupid, but they’re not all over the place. Officially they’re simple: you need to be vaccinated if you are 18+, if not you do not need to be vaccinated. At least it’s simple to make up for the fact it makes no sense to still have rules 😛

looks like the vaccine mandate for air travel has been extended to april 10 2023 (TSA emergency directive 1546-21-02B) as of a couple days ago. that being said, the directive explicitly says it only applies to air travel. any chance it could be lifted for land/sea borders? as illogical as that would be. I am vaccinated but my unvaccinated partner and I have been waiting to elope in the US!

Just wrote about it. Seems unlikely indeed: https://flytrippers.com/usa-vaccination-requirement-travel/

new bill to end, unvaxed border issues. https://massie.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395511

It’s April 12, 2023. Is there any vaccine mandate changes for people entering USA?

No change, it was extended back in early April. Here are all the details: https://flytrippers.com/usa-vaccination-requirement-travel/

Hey Andrew,

Thank you for your time and effort on this. I’ve been denied access to the U.S via land through canada on multiple occasions only to be ridiculed by certain customs agents as some sort of criminal. I’m looking to fly private from a smaller airport in toronto area to Buffalo; have you found out if the requirement is exempt from private charters crossing the border ? I can’t seem to find any credible reliable source online on this circumstance, it would be greatly appreciated.

Hi, I’ve never heard of any exemptions unfortunately. There could be, I just have never seen any info about that.

Hello. My boyfriend is unvaccinated but not a Canadian or an American citizen. Do you think that would make a difference should we try to drive to the US from Canada? For example, when they ask for passports? He has a European passport and we’ve been searching for ways to get him to enter the US for 2 years now and having him fly to Canada and cross the border by land is the most hope we’ve had. Is the border control more easy going in a certain station, Detroit opposed to New York? Anything helps. Thank you.

Hi, the US rules are the same for all foreigners regardless of nationality, so I don’t see that issue really changing anything. That said, it’s likely that all of the many testimonials we got from people crossing the US border by land are Canadians. I haven’t had enough data to really know that one particular border crossing is better than another though :S

Maybe try crossing with a Vax exemption. You can obtain one by being a participant in the following control group from the UK. And for $30 they will actually print and mail you a plastic card with your name and picture, verifying your participation in the study. http://www.vaxcontrolgroup.com

Im vaccinated but my husband isnt. We were able to cross into the US Queenston/Lewiston NY land boarder last week and the customs officer didnt ask if we were vaccinated and just asked how long we were gong into the US for. We told him just for the day as it was just a day trip we were doing. That was that and we got through. But now we are thinking of going to Florida for a week. Crossing the land boarder again and flying from Buffalo airport but my husband is worried because he said it might not be so easy next time and that the officer might ask us if we are vaxxed and if he tells them he’s not then we wont be able to cross and our flight, hotel and trip will be ruined. Im guessing this can happen? Since technically un vaccinated Canadians arent allowed in the US? I feel like I would take the risk and try because we just got through with no issues and would they actually ruin someones vacation? Has anyone you know thats unvaccinated actually been turned away at a land boarder? If they ask if your vaccinated do they also ask to see vaccination papers? Or do they just take your word for it? Great website by the way! Lots of very helpful information!

Yes it can happen, you never know. It seems to be rare, but some people definitely are asked. Those who say they aren’t vaccinated are obviously denied entry, and those who lie and say they are usually aren’t asked for proof, but some are. That said, most US airlines charge a lot less for the fare class that comes with free changes, and almost every single hotel offers free cancelation up until 1 or 2 days before, so you could simply book a hotel starting 1 or 2 days after the planned border crossing so that you can cancel and it would be risk-free 🙂

Hey Andrew! I’m going to attempt to fly into the USA, we are both unvaccinated. Our flights are Toronto-Edmonton then Edmonton-Phoenix. We are thinking of trying it or just cancelling and try by land. Which one would you do? I’ve heard of people go through both ways with no issue.

I would have to say that personally I would not try either to not get caught not following the rules, because of our “public” role as a reference for travelers. However, objectively, in terms of data, based on the many testimonials, it seems more likely to work by land than by air. That said, recently there seems to also have been a change in enforcement by air, I’ll have a post about that soon. But it’s riskier to try by air, if they ask for proof then you have to cancel your flight and with most airlines, that means paying a cancelation fee. I’ll cover that in the same new post soon too.

Hi, we are travelling as a group across a land border with one unvaccinated traveller- my husband. When and if he gets across without issue, he can board our domestic flight (BUF- MCO) without issue? Southwest web info seemed unclear, but maybe just me. It refers to travelling by plane TO USA as a non USA citizen, (stating proof of vax to board a plane inbound to the states) not necessarily specific to domestic flights for unvaxxed Canadians once within the states. Basically, if he gets over the border in the car, he’s good to go for the flight? Sorry if this is redundant. It’s a lot if money to chance.

Hi, here’s the section about domestic flights . In short, no country has ever had rules for domestic flights, only extremist Canada had that. That said, there’s still an element of risk to booking a flight: the land border agent might ask for proof, even though it’s unlikely. That said, many US airlines offer free changes on tickets, unlike in Canada (well, at a lower price than Canadian airlines ask for flexible fare classes I mean).

Thanks for clarifying. I’m going to wait and see if Biden changes things over the holiday season ( eyeroll) Southwest issues a credit good for a year, and Disney only refunds before 30 days out. It’s a small fortune to risk losing right now. I’m going to opt him out if our plans. We DID get across with him for 4th if July family visit. No one asked us anything both ways. So arbitrary.

It’s a lot of money for sure. Hopefully the US follows the science soon enough :S

Hello, Im curious was your husband allowed in the states unvaccinated? Im curious and just wonder 🙂

My husband and I are Canadian and unvaccinated. If we drive into the usa (because apparently the customs officers routinely do not ask for vaccine proof) then fly from Bellingham to Phoenix will we be asked for proof of vaccine because we are Canadian travellers?

Hi, this section of the post answers that question, but in short, no other country apart from Canada has ever had requirements for domestic flights, ever. It’s not a thing, and the US doesn’t have special rules for foreigners on domestic flights 🙂 Although in case you are denied entry by land (which is obviously a possibility), maybe make sure your flight and lodging bookings have some form of flexibility to be safe.

Hello – my 14 year old is travelling to the USA from Canada and he is unvaccinated. He will be in the states for 5 days. Does he have to isolate or take a covid test before returning to Canada?

Hi, Canada has removed all rules and requirements for all travelers 🙂 So nothing required at all to enter here.

But that is not the question. You didn’t answer correctly

The question is whether there are rules to enter Canada. I answered that Canada has removed all of its entry rules. How can I answer more clearly? Canada no longer requires anything from anyone. So nobody needs to do anything to enter Canada 🙂

So to be clear my unvaccinated 13 year old can travel by plane to Florida from Toronto and return back to Canada. does she require a negative test to return home or can we just download the arrivecan app and do a test on day 1 and 8 ? My husband who is unvaccinated can travel by land to the buffalo airport and fly out of buffalo to Florida ? All so confusing

No test to enter USA, tests to enter Canada, and 14-day quarantine in Canada.

For unvaccinated adults, technically entering the USA is *not* allowed, it’s just not often checked by land. The section explains it: https://flytrippers.com/how-canadians-travel-united-states/#Unvaccinated_adult_travelers_Rules_to_travel_to_the_USA

But if he does manage to enter, like every country in the world there are no requirements for domestic flights. It used to be confusing because of Canada’s rule, now it isn’t: the ONLY thing to look at is the entry rules. No other rules exist.

Can I fly from Canada to USA on a private airplane if I get a negative covid test, if I’m unvaccinated?

I’m not sure if rules are different by private plane, because in theory you can’t enter the US without being vaccinated, but this is only enforced by the airline usually, not the customs agents. But maybe it’s different and they do enforce it with private planes knowing there is no airline to check beforehand. I’ll try to find out.

Hello! We’re going from Toronto to Orlando in August. All adults in our group are vaccinated but my 3 year old is not. We’re flying air Canada, and everything I’ve seen so far says that kids are exempt but only if you sign an attestation that they will get a COVID test 3-5 days after landing and self isolate for 5 days regardless of results. Is this true?? Link below for source.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/proof-of-vaccination.html#noncitizen

First of all, August is so far away it’s probably pointless. Everything will probably be removed. But even then, with the current rules nobody really cares if minors get a test, nobody will ask or check, so most people simply ignore it completely.

We just came back from Dominican Republic. My 16 y.o. unvaccinated son had to do antigen test 24 hours before returning to Canada, day 1 and day 8 testing in Canada and quarantine 14 days on top of it. Your husband can actually fly with you there and back and do the rest like your son testing and quarantine

Yes well, the Dominican Republic is a different country so obviously, their rules are different than the US rules. Also, just for clarity, Canada’s pre-entry test requirement for unvaccinated Canadians has no “24 hours” limit: it’s the day of the flight or the day before (no hour-based time limit). And a molecular test within 72 hours of departure is still accepted too as an alternative. Here is the post about how to travel during the pandemic: https://flytrippers.com/how-to-travel-during-a-pandemic-simplified-version/

Am I able to fly from a US city back to into Vancouver if i am unvaccinated?

Yes no problem; the only rules that exist are entry rules and Canada’s entry rules allow (and have always allowed) all Canadians to enter regardless of vaccination status. You will need a valid pre-entry test though: https://flytrippers.com/canada-entry-guide/

Hi, so am i able to fly from Vancouver into the USA unvaccinated since the changes have been made about the mandates recently? or is it that I can only cross by land? And would i need any tests?

Hi, this article is up to date (and we’ll keep it that way). The US vaccination requirement has not changed. Here’s the direct link to the unvaccinated adult section that explains everything: https://flytrippers.com/how-canadians-travel-united-states/#Unvaccinated_adult_travelers_Rules_to_travel_to_the_USA

So just confirming after reading your response, once i am in the USA I am able to fly domestic within the USA unvaccinated. Is that right?

Yes, almost no country on Earth has ever had vaccine requirements for domestic flights (apart from Canada until recently and maybe a few rare countries) and the USA certainly have never had anything like that. Americans just wouldn’t tolerate such restrictions on the freedom of movement, let’s call it cultural differences ;P

Hi there, I’m a non vaccinated Canadian who wants to go across the border. According to what you’ve written I can:

– go across the border – need a rapid test or pre-entry test before coming back into Canada – fill out the arrive can app

BUT I have to quarantine even though my pre-entry test is negative? I don’t understand the logic of the quarantine if you’re negative ?

As I wrote, you “can” go across the border, but only if you lie to the border agents and/or if they don’t ask for proof of vaccination. They do require it officially even if they don’t seem to ask for proof very often at the land border. Then yes you need a pre-entry test to enter Canada and the ArriveCAN app. And you’ll not only have to quarantine for 14 days regardless of that test’s result, you’ll also have to do 2 more tests (day 1 and day 8) and you’ll still have to quarantine if those are negative too.

It’s The Science™, it cannot be questioned. There is no logic, it’s about punishing the unvaccinated and scoring political points with the scared demographic that wants unvaccinated travelers to be punished 😛

Since we are having issues getting the passports. I want to travel via land over the border from Montreal into the USA. Adults have passports its the kids that are the issue. Can we fly domestic from Burlington VT to Orlando with no passports for the kids? They are Canadian…I will have their birth certificates.

Thank you for all your advice in your article. Quick question . . .

Can an unvaxed Canadian go to Mexico as the end destination with a layover in the USA?

No, you cannot transit in the US if you are not vaccinated as the US does not offer sterile international transits. In short, connecting in the US means entering the US , so you need to follow their entry rules. Here’s the section about US transits for more details.

Clear explanation about how Canadians people can travel to the United States in this article. Thanks for the information

Hi, could you please explain the last part when you say: if negative, take the test on the full calendar day before (NOT just 24 hours). In my case, if I’m leaving on the 10th, when should I take the test?

At any time on the 9th. Direct link to detailed section: https://flytrippers.com/how-canadians-travel-united-states/#How_the_pre-entry_test_required_by_the_USA_works

Hello, When the airlines/customs ask for proof of vaccination, what do they do with it? Do they go through a process?

I can’t say for the land border since they didn’t ask me both times I went, but my plane I’ve entered many many times and they just look at the document to see if it says you are vaccinated or not. Not sure what you mean, does that answer your question?

Aside from the Canadian Government requirements the airlines mat have their own rules. I am a critical service worker and have an exempt certificate from Arrive-Can. However my last flight out of the USA was Delta and they require a negative test before boarding their aircraft. The Arrive-Can paperwork is strictly for the Canadian Government and it doesn’t apply to them.

No Delta does not have test requirements. They only apply the countries’ rules, like every other airline in the world except Etihad. However, like all other airlines, they do have employees who don’t know the rules and exemptions so that’s why it’s important that you know them well and make sure to tell them they ar wrong.

My unvaxed teenagers are booked with Delta to fly from Calgary to Guatemala City in August. They have one layover in LA. I was reassured by a Delta rep that Delta will only require what the destination is requiring, which in this case is a negative Covid test. The rep said it will not matter that they have a layover in the US. Is this correct info from what you know?

Yes as mentioned in this post, there are absolutely no requirements to enter the USA for those under the age of 18. So they will only check the requirements for the destination indeed 🙂

So Delta let my unvaxed 15 and 19 year olds fly from Calgary to Guatemala City via LAX. But we could not convince the Delta Rep in Guatemala City to let them return home the same way. They were adamant that they could not connect through the states, even though Delta had let them fly down through the states unvaxed. Very frustrating! Cost us over $4000 extra dollars to buy new tickets through AeroMexico, flying to Mexico city and then straight to YVR. Do you think it’s any use taking this up with Delta since they’d reassured me like four times on the phone before their trip that they’d be fine and also let them use one way of their return ticket, but not the other way? So frustrating and very expensive!

The vaccination requirement applies to those over 18, so the 19-year-old shouldn’t have been allowed on the outbound flight (and the 15-year-old should have been allowed on the inbound flight). I would definitely try to get them to reimburse you for your out-of-pocket expenses since it’s their mistake for sure.

hi when flying from Canada to USA does the original vaccine passport work or do I need the qr code ?

Hi, this section addresses that: https://flytrippers.com/how-canadians-travel-united-states/#Proof_of_vaccination_for_travel_to_the_USA Better get the right one just to avoid any problems.

Hi! Thank you so much for writing these information. It really helps us planning our trip. I just have one question though, me and fiancé are both fully vaccinated and planning to fly from Bellingham to Los Angeles, however, we are crossing to the border from Vancouver. I understand that domestic flights and crossing border by land does not require covid test but we are wondering if we still need to get tested since we are crossing by land then flying to LA. I appreciate your reply. Thank you so much!

Hi! No, as you said, entering by land does not require a test and domestic flights do not require a test. End of story 🙂

Hey Andrew, Thank you for your time and work on this. I have a question about the proof of vaccination, will our vaccination card with QR code on our mobile phones work or do we need to print out something to show when traveling from Toronto – Los Angeles? As for the Rapid antigen test what is the best piece of documentation to provide when arriving into the States. Thank you

The US isn’t very strict, but still, you should get the “Canadian” vaccine passport to be safe as they might not recognize a provincial name ( https://flytrippers.com/vaccine-passport-travel-canada/ ). No need to print anything. Test can be the digital report as well 🙂 To be clear you won’t need it when arriving into the USA, it will only be checked by the airline (if it is checked t all).

As a Canadian citizen do I need to test for domestic flights within the US?

Nobody needs anything to board a domestic flight in the US, there is no test or vaccine requirement just like almost every country in the world (except Canada). So if you are one of the Canadians who are very scared of unvaccinated travelers, just a good thing to know about 😛

Good morning, my family and I are looking to travel to the US in mid-April of this year. The adults are all fully vaccinated, the two children are not. The children at the time of travel would be 5 and 3. The plan would be to travel from Buffalo (we live in Niagara and its closer and cheaper), to Florida. Would this be possible and easily done? In theory, we would cross in Fort Erie by land, head to the Buffalo airport and fly to Florida that way. Then fly back to Buffalo and re-cross in Fort Erie by land.

Yes, it’s possible and it’s by far the easiest option. The only test required would be for the 5 year-old to enter Canada, unless Canada announces a new exemption for kids.

So, if my wife and I we are double vaccinated and my 4 years old unvaccinated , and we are planning to travel to Seattle from Vancouver for less than 72 hours by land. We don’t need any Covid tests. Right?

Hi, only if you enter Canada on April 1st or later.

Bonjour Andrew,

Moi et ma famille voudrions passer la frontière américaine sans être vaccinés. Est-ce que les douaniers américains au Québec sont regardant sur la vaccination ? Peut-on juste attester verbalement en espérant qu’ils nous laissent passer ? Et dans le cas où ils voudraient vérifier le pass vaccinal de quelle façon ils le vérifient, en scannant le code QR ou juste en jetant un coup d’œil sur la fiche ?

Merci pour ta réponse.

Bonjour, je viens de faire un paragraphe là-dessus: https://flytrippers.com/fr/comment-canadiens-voyager-etats-unis/#Voyageurs_non-vaccines_regles_pour_voyager_aux_Etats-Unis Et aucun code QR n’est exigé par les États-Unis, juste la preuve papier ou numérique en anglais.

Hi, I have a question I just made a rapid test appointment the day before my flight. I fly out March 16th, and scheduled a rapid test with Walmart on the 15th. I can take the test anytime, as long as the time frame is in the date of the 15th? Can I test a week before I fly out? Or do I have to do it on the 15th. Thanks!

Hi, the day of the flight or the day before 🙂

Je pars pour Miami dans 2 semaines avec les enfants. Quelle genre de preuve doit-on présenter si on fait un test rapide à la maison? Mais quand je lis sur le site de CDC, il y a beaucoup d’exigences, et je ne veux pas prendre la risque de me faire virer de bord avec les enfants… :

You can use a self-test (sometimes referred to as home test) that meets the following criteria:

The test must be a SARS-CoV-2 viral test (nucleic acid amplification test [NAAT] or antigen test) with Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) OR the relevant national authority where the test is administered. The testing procedure must include a telehealth service affiliated with the manufacturer of the test that provides real-time supervision remotely through an audio and video connection. Some FDA-authorized self-tests that include a telehealth service may require a prescription. The telehealth provider must confirm your identity, observe the sample collection and testing procedures, confirm the test result, and issue a report that meets the requirements of CDC’s Order (see “What information must be included in the test result?” below). Airlines and other aircraft operators must be able to review and confirm your identity and the test result details. You must also be able to present the documentation of test results to U.S. officials at the port of entry and local/state health departments, if requested.

Bonjour, un test fait à la maison sans surveillance par télésanté n’est pas accepté par aucun pays du monde (une des très rares règles universelles haha). Si tu n’as pas de rapport, c’est donc inutile. Ça prend un rapport de labo. Donc pour entrer aux États-Unis par avion, ça te prend soit: — un test négatif OU — un test positif ET une lettre d’un médecin Voici les détails: https://flytrippers.com/fr/comment-canadiens-voyager-etats-unis/#Exemption_pour_les_infections_recentes

Thanks for the info Andrew. One question I have I’m having trouble finding the answer to is what Canada considers 10 days post positive test to enter. The government website says, “ You must provide proof of a COVID-19 negative molecular test result to enter Canada OR proof of a previous positive test result taken between 10 and 180 days ago.” then goes on the say, “ Canadians: To avoid being fined $5,000 per traveller (plus surcharges), wait to enter Canada until the 10th day after your positive test result.” I tested positive Jan 29 @10 am. Can I fot home on February 8th? Or do I have to wait until the 9th?

The response we got from Health Canada media relations is that the precise timing of the day is not relevant in this calculation. It’s 10 full days. So in your case you’d be allowed to board only on the 9th.

Hi, I have a coworker with a small general aviation airplane (Cessna 172). Could my coworker fly my unvaccinated friend from Pit Meadows airport (small airport near Vancouver) to Bellingham or Seattle? My friend then wants to fly solo (by commercial airline) to Mexico and then return direct to Vancouver from Mexico (also commercial airline). Do you think this would be possible? Thanks for any help

No because the US requires foreigners to be fully vaccinated to enter. If you can get a private plane to take you to Mexico, which has no entry requirements at all, then this would most definitely work yes.

Can you fly to Mexico on a private owned plane but stop in the USA top up fuel and continue on to Mexico?

That is a great question, I don’t seem to be able to find anything online about this unfortunately.

Thanks for the quick reply! Any difference if an unvaccinated person took a private boat from Vancouver to Bellingham, WA?

No unfortunately, the US requires foreigners to be fully vaccinated to enter. Whether it is in a car, on a plane, on a boat, on a UFO or any other mode, the US requires vaccination all the time :S

Does a Canadian vaccine passport work for proof of vaccination in Hawaii right now at their restaurants? I’ve seen that fully vaxxed Canadians flying direct no longer need to enrol in Safe Travels, but is there another requirement once you’re on the island for dining etc?

Hi, I have not seen comments about that. But surely like most destinations, they have some way of recognizing foreign vaccination proof to allow entry to restaurants and other places since they encourage foreign visitors. You can check their tourism website or official government COVID-19 website for info. We have our hands pretty full with just the travel restrictions themselves so we’ll stick to that only, unfortunately 😛

If I am a fully vaccinated Canadian who travelled to the USA via land border in Maine and my ‘72 hour before crossing’ test comes back positive am I still allowed to cross into Canada and continue home to isolate? And how long is isolation in Canada for people who have travelled outside the country?

Hi, you are “allowed” in the sense that they will let you in, but it’s against the official rule. In theory, the government says you are subject to a fine of $5,000 but in practice those seem to be rare if you have a quarantine plan. Here are all the details: https://flytrippers.com/entering-canada-by-land-with-a-positive-test/

Hi Andrew, I am a Canadian driving across the Detroit boarder and flying out of Metro Airport to Mexico. Do I require a covid test to board the plane? So confused lol Thank you in advance

No test required to enter the US by land and no test required to fly domestically (like almost every country in the world too) and no test required to enter Mexico, so you’re good 🙂

If i fly from France to canada, as a fully vaccinated Canadian, how long do i have to wait in canada before i can fly to the usa?

Hi, there isn’t really a waiting period anymore, it’s just that you will be tested on arrival and required to isolate until you get the results. You should be able to leave isolation to go to the airport if you’re flying out of the country, but I’ll double-check with Health Canada since, yet again, the government website is pretty useless on this subject.

Can an unvaccinated Canadian of any age drive into the US for “non-essential” travel? From this post, it looks like that may be the case, but perhaps it was only referring to not having to test and perhaps that still means you have to provide proof of vaccination. Thanks for your help!

Hi Andrew, While there has been some changes on the US side of things recently, many Canadians have travelled unvaccinated to the US since November. People post their travel experiences with proof on travel groups and I personally know people who have crossed by land multiple times. So it’s not that simple. Since the 22nd, they started ‘cracking down’, hence the convoys.

Yeah before January 22nd, essential travelers were exempt so it makes sense that they would not verify systematically. Might definitely have changed since, all the many reports I’ve seen of unvaccinated Canadians entering the USA by land were pre-January 22nd for sure.

As soon as things change on land travel for unvaccinated traveller’s can you please let me know. I am, but my husband and son are not and we would like to drive to see my husbands family in the US since it has been way too long and they are getting old. I totally agree with your comment that at this point it should totally be a personal risk assessment everyone just has to take for themselves…since we know that fully vaccinated people can spread it and catch it just like the unvaccinated can… thanks for your help

Hi, yes we’ll definitely post about it as soon as it changes. You can follow us on Facebook or sign up for our free newsletter to make sure you don’t miss anything: https://flytrippers.com/never-miss-a-cheap-flight-deal-from-canada/

Hello Andrew, I love this website and article! I have a question, has an announcement been made regarding exemption guidelines for an unvaccinated Canadian citizen married to an American born citizen to enter the USA by land or air? Where can I find information? Thanks for your time.

They aren’t great at providing specifics, your best bet will be to contact them directly unfortunately. This DHS website lists a few “essential travel” examples, but I would assume being married to an American citizen should give some right to enter. https://www.dhs.gov/news/2021/10/29/frequently-asked-questions-guidance-travelers-enter-us

Hi Andrew: You’ve pulled together a terrific website… and thanks to you, I’m now thinking it just might be smarter to cancel next month’s fight to Florida out of Toronto and navigate that border by flying out of Buffalo instead. And as you pointed out, U.S. fares look good. One question: On our return, even though we’re triple-vaxxed, if it turned out we had an asymptomatic but positive result on that 72-hour molecular test, what would happen when we tried to drive back across the border from Buffalo?

Unfortunately, you would have to wait until you get a negative test OR 10 full days and then enter, or else you could be fined up to $5,000. Here is the detailed article I just posted about this today: https://flytrippers.com/testing-positive-while-traveling/

Bonjour! Pour un retour au Canada à partir du Mexique (escale aux USA)… est-ce que les USA acceptent également le PCR ou je dois faire les deux tests? (puisque les USA acceptent le test AG rapide et le Canada accepte le PCR) Merci beaucoup!

Oui les États-Unis acceptent les PCR 🙂

Wow!! So glad I discovered your site. Extremely helpful. Hearing that starting on Dec. 6th, Canadians will have to show proof of negative antigen test when entering the US (by air AND by land). Just curious about how one provides proof of this negative antigen test……isn’t this a test that you can administer yourself?? Thank you in advance.

Hi, no there are no changes to the land border rules at all. Still no test required to enter. There are self-test kits but most people use clinics to get the test done. Here is an introduction to COVID-19 tests for travel: https://flytrippers.com/covid-19-tests-travel/

Can unvaccinated Canadians travel to the United States after November 8? Trip is planned for Nov 20 – 28, so would be going and coming before the “transition period” for unvaccinated is over.

Hi no, you cannot. The transition period is related to Canada’s rule to board a plane departing from Canada. It is completely separate. The US has their own entry rules and they no longer let unvaccinated foreigners in.

Hi Andrew, Can I get an official source for the requirement on Covid test to enter the US as a fully vaccinated Canadian? My research never specify a test required for people other than U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents.

https://ca.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information-canada-3/

Hi there is only one official source for every country’s requirements, we give you the link for each country here: https://flytrippers.com/countries-canadians-can-travel-to/

Can an unvaccinated Canadian fly from Florida to Costa Rica return now??

Hi, yes Costa Rica has no vaccination requirement. You won’t be able to return to the US though, unless you are a US citizen.

What if you are a fully vaccinated Canadian… Drive across the border to Detroit, get on a plane from Detroit to Utah?

What’s the requirements for testing for that?

HI, I’m not sure I understand the timing for which tests can be used to fly into the USA. If I fly to the US on Nov 5, I can get a rapid antigen on Nov 3rd and be fine? Thanks.

Hi, you can even have it done on the 2nd at any time of the day, the US is different and doesn’t care about the precise time.

Andrew, by far you are in my top 3 sites for direct clear information which is well organized. Bravo. You have mentioned the possibility of flying private or travelling by boat. Does boat mean a small yacht which can be hired to cross the ST. Lawrence? Don’t private flights to small US airports still require passengers to go through border patrol who would check if you are vaccinated?

Hi, glad we can help! You can travel by boat but not to the US since they will require vaccination starting tomorrow. But you could go to Mexico the long way haha 😛

Thanks for the info! To confirm, a flight flying from Hawaii to Arizona does not require any negative tests for a Canadian traveller. Just proof of vaccination?

No proof of vaccination either, absolutely nothing is required for domestic flights. About 2 million Americans flew just yesterday, they wouldn’t tolerate any requirements whatsoever unlike us (cultural differences I guess) and so you do not need to be tested or vaccinated (and this is the case for domestic flights in almost every country in the world by the way).

Does anyone know if an “unvaccinated” Canadian married to an American can cross over? I’m planning to drive across the border by mid or end of November, however, I’m worry my husband won’t be allowed to go in. 🙁

So if they keep the same exemptions as now and if they apply them to the land border too, it should work but you’ll have to confirm once they announced the actual rules.

Great post thanks. If you are unvaccinated and trying to fly the US before Oct 30 but don’t have a return flight till after Nov 8, (snow bird) will there be border protection stop you because you’ll be in the US unvaccinated after they’re Nov 8 mandate?

Hi Todd,like in most countries the only federal rule is about entry. That’s all that matters. So as long as you’re in before November 8, no issues. Some cities may have vaccine requirements for some activities of course, but that’s a minority and not many in the sunny parts of the country!

for unvaccinated travelers, after November 30th will they not be able to leave or return Canada at all by land sea or air ?

Starting November 30, those who are unvaccinated cannot board a plane in a Canadian airport. Entry rules are completely separate, there are no changes to entry rules so any Canadian can always enter Canada.

But effectively, since the US is banning unvaccinated foreigners, no plane and no land means unless you leave before November 30, unvaccinated Canadians will be stuck here. Unless you fly private or use a boat. If the government goes ahead with it has announced.

Just like to Thankyou for your site. It’s a blessing to be able to be informed for travel into different places and be able to know the requirements to depart & enter.🇨🇦

Does anyone know if for re-entry into Canada is the 72 hours is calculated from date of test or date of results received?

Hi the test itself must be performed at most 72 hours before the scheduled time of departure of your direct flight to Canada.

This is really informative. Thank you for writting this piece to guide people who are thinking of travelling to the US. I just need to confirm though, that Rapid test are accepted in both US and Canada? In BC NAAT travel test is for $200. Thanks in advance!

Hi, rapid antigen tests are NOT accepted to enter Canada (but to enter the USA yes). Canada only accepts PCRs and also rapid molecular tests, only available in the US though (NAATs).

Hello I love your site, very informative. I read it all, but I am overloaded with information. So hopefully I am not bothering you. Myself and my 2 adult children are travelling from Toronto to Florida the last week of October. We are fully Vaccinated. 1. What do we need to fly out? What test do we need? Where is the best place for a test in Ontario? What do exactly need to travel easily? 2. Flying home, A specific test, No cost Walgreens or CVS ? Thanks for your time and help, Warm Regards Deb S

Hi. If nothing changes until then: To enter the US, you need a rapid antigen test. Shoppers Drug Mart at $40 seems to be the best option in Ontario, if not it’s $60 at YYZ directly (details: https://flytrippers.com/canadians-travel-coronavirus-pandemic/#cantesting ) To enter Canada, you need a molecular test (PCR or NAAT). Walgreens is the best bet with the faster NAAT, but there are plenty of free options in almost every state, including Florida (details: https://flytrippers.com/getting-covid-19-test-usa-for-canadians/ )

Hi Andrew, When I’ve been looking to book a PCR test online at Walgreens, it asks for my state ID or state drivers license. I was able to plug my US AirBnB address in the previous step for my address, but am curious as to what you did for this step. Did you just select whatever state you’re in and enter your provincial drivers license information? Please let me know whenever you can. Thanks a lot!

I took the NAAT and not the PCR, so they didn’t require ID. But from other travelers’ experiences, the ID is again just to identify you correctly, they don’t mind if it’s not a US drivers license since tests are not restricted to residents, but you can double-check with the testing location specifically and let us know so we can share with other readers:)

Hi Andrew, my daughter is trying to get home to Canada from Morocco (she has been there 8 months) and unfortunately, her direct flight was cancelled. We are having a heck of a time trying to figure out if she can fly via Air France from Morocco to Boston (with a stop at CDG) and then take an AC flight from Boston to Montreal. She is not vaccinated because (anyways the vaccine in Morocco is not recognized in Canada). She will have taken her PCR test in Morocco and then take another PCR test in Boston. Will she have any trouble? Otherwise, the option was to fly RAM to JFK, get tested (PCR) and then shuttle over to LGA. Any insight you could provide would be helpful. HELP.

Hi, unfortunately, anyone who has been in most of Europe in the previous 14 days will not be allowed to enter the United States (unless they have US citizenship/residency). Even transits in Europe count so both Boston and New York are not options for Canadians in Europe.

Entering the US would work after a transit in Turkey or the Gulf countries would work though (the ban is on the Schengen area—which is most of the EU—and the UK and Ireland) or from Morocco to the US directly (but I don’t see any direct flights in the short term).

If not, she’ll have to go from Morocco to Europe then to Canada directly. In all cases, a PCR test needs to be done at the transit country (or there’s the NAAT option instead of a PCR if she transits in the US).

The fact she is not vaccinated might preclude her from entering/transiting in some countries, so double-check that (although some countries might accept other types of vaccines than Canada). The US has no vaccine requirement if she finds a flight from Morocco to there without going through Europe.

Hope this helps!

I understand the rules for travelling to Canada from the US by land. However it is not clear to me what are the requirements to enter the US by land for a Canadian with a green card. Can anyone enlighten me ?

Hi, there are no requirements to enter the US by land (no testing required). The US website says this: “U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and individuals with valid travel documents will be exempted.” So as a permanent resident with a Green Card, it seems you are allowed to enter.

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Entering Canada

On this page, by private boat, required identification, permanent residents, travelling with children, you and the border services officer.

Whether you’re returning home or visiting, you’ll follow the same 3 steps to enter Canada:

Step 1. Pre-arrival: Use Advance Declaration or complete a Declaration Card

If you’re arriving by air at one of Canada’s participating international airports, you can save time at the border. Submit your customs and immigration declaration online using Advance Declaration up to 72 hours before you arrive in Canada.

If you choose not to submit your declaration in advance, you can complete it at an airport kiosk or eGate. If you’re landing at an airport without kiosks or eGates, you’ll receive a Declaration Card on board the aircraft or other conveyance. Read the instructions and complete the card before you arrive. Have it ready to present to Canadian officials at the airport, along with your identification and other travel documents. If you're travelling with children, please have their documentation ready as well.

If using a Declaration Card, detach and discard the instructions. To help us serve you faster, do not fold the card.

Everyone arriving in Canada must complete a declaration. You can list up to 4 people living at the same residence on one card, or 8 people per Advance Declaration submission.

The Declaration Card or Advance Declaration submission tells us what we need to know about you, your travels and what you’re bringing into the country.

Connecting to another flight

If you’re connecting to another flight or travelling on to another destination and re-boarding the same plane, follow the signs. At some airports, you may have to check your baggage and have it screened again.

If you travel frequently our trusted traveller programs can help

If you're a member of a trusted traveller program, you can skip Step 2 and go directly to the automated kiosks or eGates for faster processing.

Step 2. Arrival: First CBSA checkpoint

When you arrive at the terminal, follow the signs to the first Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) checkpoint, also called “primary inspection.”

If you used Advance Declaration, go to a kiosk or eGate to retrieve your confirmed declaration receipt. Up to 5 people may use a kiosk as a group upon arrival.

Next, a border services officer will examine your:

• Declaration Card or Advance Declaration kiosk receipt
• your identification
• other travel documents

The officer may ask you a series of questions to determine:

• your immigration status
• the type of any goods you're bringing with you
• your duty-free allowance
• your personal exemption entitlements

Goods not properly declared that are restricted or prohibited in Canada can, under the law, be seized.

Newcomer or coming to Canada to study or work

If you’re a newcomer to Canada, coming to study or work in Canada, you may need to present further documentation. The officer will help guide you through this process. You may ask the officer for help if you don’t speak English or French well.

Step 3. Baggage and second CBSA checkpoint

Go to the baggage claim area. If you must pay duty and taxes, you can pay at most major airports while waiting for your luggage.

Once you’ve picked up your luggage:

• go to the next CBSA checkpoint
• Declaration Card, Advance Declaration kiosk or eGate receipt
• receipt, if you paid duty and taxes for your goods

The officer may direct you to a secondary inspection area.

Here, officers may ask you:

• for detailed information about your travels
• to present your luggage and goods for examination

This is a normal part of the travelling process. Your cooperation is appreciated and helps us ensure the safety of Canada, its economy and its residents.

If you’re arriving by land, follow the signs to the first checkpoint, also called “primary inspection.” Here, a border services officer will examine your identification and other travel documents and take your verbal declaration.

Visit U.S. to Canada border wait times for estimated wait times at certain locations.

If you’re arriving by private boat, go directly to a designated marine telephone reporting site and call the CBSA Telephone Reporting Centre (TRC) at 1-888-226-7277 to obtain clearance.

Private boaters that meet certain conditions may report to the CBSA by calling the TRC using cell phone from their location in Canadian waters.

Learn more about reporting requirements for private boaters.

Make sure you carry proper identification for yourself and any children travelling with you to help confirm your legal right to enter Canada. Canada has introduced a new entry requirement, known as an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), for certain international travellers who fly to Canada.

Read about the changes and how they may affect you.

The Government of Canada recommends that Canadian citizens travel with a valid Canadian passport because it’s the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel.

International transportation companies such as airlines may require travellers to present a passport before boarding. Canadian citizens may face delays or may not be allowed to board the plane or other conveyance if they present other documents such as a:

• Enhanced Driver's License (EDL)/Enhanced Identification Card (EIC)
• NEXUS card (used where the program is available)
• Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card used in FAST lanes
• Canadian citizenship card
• Certificate of Indian Status
• Birth certificate in combination with either a driver's licence or a government-issued photo identification

Permanent residents (immigrants living in Canada who are not yet Canadian citizens) need a valid permanent resident card to return to Canada. Check the expiry date on your card.

Note that a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document.

See Canadian Citizenship for further details.

Parents who share custody of their children should bring copies of the legal custody documents to the border when travelling with their children.

A consent letter should be used for all cross-border travel when a child is travelling:

• with only 1 parent or guardian
• in the care of friends or relatives
• with a group, such as a sports, school, musical or religious group

Example of a consent letter to permit travel by a child with a single custodian or parent.

When travelling with a group of vehicles, parents or guardians should arrive at the border in the same vehicle as the children.

Adults who aren’t parents or guardians should have written permission from the parents or guardians to supervise the children. The consent letter should include addresses and telephone numbers where the parents or guardian can be reached.

Border officers watch for missing children, and may ask detailed questions about the children who are travelling with you.

You may occasionally find yourself going through a more detailed inspection. In some cases, this simply means that you may have to complete a form. In other cases, the border services officer will need to identify the goods you’re bringing into the country or examine your luggage.

Border services officers are legally entitled to examine your luggage as part of their responsibility to protect Canada's safety, economy and environment. You are responsible for opening, unpacking and repacking your luggage.

By making your goods easily accessible for inspection and having your receipts handy, you will be helping the CBSA to help you. It’s a good idea to keep all your receipts for accommodation and purchases, and for any repairs done to, or parts bought for, your vehicle. The border services officer may ask to see them as evidence of the length of your stay and of the value of the goods or repairs.

If you disagree with the amount of duty and taxes that you have to pay, please ask to speak with the CBSA superintendent on duty. A consultation can often resolve the issue quickly and without cost. If you’re still not satisfied, our officers can tell you how to make a formal appeal.

Border services officers may arrest an individual for an offence under the Criminal Code (for example, impaired driving, outstanding arrest warrants, stolen property, abductions/kidnappings) and for infractions under other acts of Parliament (for example, the Customs Act , the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act ).

If you’re arrested, you may be compelled to attend court in Canada. You should note that anyone arrested in Canada is protected by and will be treated in accordance with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms .

Related links

• Bringing goods to Canada
• Traveller entry requirements
• Travel documents
• Programs for trusted travellers
• Travelling as a dual citizen

U.S. to end vaccine requirements for Canadians at land border, international air travellers: officials

The U.S. is ending its COVID-19 vaccine requirements for international air travellers and Canadians at the border as of next week, officials announced on Monday.

By the end of the day on May 11, international air travellers, federal employees and federal contractors will no longer need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination , the White House said in a statement Monday.

“Our COVID-19 vaccine requirements bolstered vaccination across the nation, and our broader vaccination campaign has saved millions of lives,” the statement reads. “While vaccination remains one of the most important tools in advancing the health and safety of employees and promoting the efficiency of workplaces, we are now in a different phase of our response when these measures are no longer necessary.”

The statement added that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, along with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, will also “start the process to end their vaccination requirements for ... certain noncitizens at the land border."

“In the coming days, further details related to ending these requirements will be provided,” the White House said.

According to Democratic Congressman Brian Higgins, whose district encompasses Buffalo and Niagara Falls, N.Y. along the Canadian border, the COVID-19 vaccine requirement will also be lifted for Canadians seeking to cross into the U.S. through the land border as of May 11.

Higgins said this has been confirmed to him by the White House after he pushed for clarity on whether or not Canadian crossings at the land border would be impacted by the U.S. lifting its COVID emergency order on May 11.

“For over three years now there have been barriers to cross-border travel,” Higgins said in a press release. “It has kept families apart and impeded economic recovery. While long overdue, this last lifting of pandemic restrictions is certainly welcome news and critically important as we seek opportunities to encourage a robust cross-border exchange that delivers shared prosperity.”

Last month, U.S President Joe Biden signed a bill to end the COVID-19 national emergency.

Canada ended its requirement for proof of COVID-19 vaccination for all travellers entering the country by air or through the land border last October. 

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State-sponsored actors targeted security devices used by governments around the world, according to technology firm Cisco Systems, which said the network devices are coveted intrusion points by spies.

Entertainment

Elliot Page criticizes Alberta government for trans policies at Calgary Comic Expo event

Actor and activist Elliot Page offered a parent some guidance and blasted the Alberta government Sunday at the Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo.

Quebec singing star and cultural icon Jean-Pierre Ferland dies at 89

Quebec singing star and cultural icon Jean-Pierre Ferland died on Saturday at the age of 89.

'Cybersecurity incident' shuts down London Drugs stores across Western Canada

All 79 locations of pharmacy and retail chain London Drugs were shut down Sunday after it was the victim of a “cybersecurity incident.”

Fair share: the right office solution can take finding the right partner

The rise of remote and hybrid work has made it harder to justify a full office, so more are leaning on co-working spaces that they share with many others for convenience and cost savings. The choice, however, comes at the expense of privacy and control.

Seeking engagement and purpose, corporate employees turn to workplace volunteering

Employees increasingly find that robust workplace volunteer programs meet their desires for in-person connections, professional growth and altruistically inclined employers — career objectives that might be missing in conventional corporate atmospheres.

Canada's oldest hat store still going strong after 90 years

Since 1932, Montreal's Henri Henri has been filled to the brim with every possible kind of hat, from newsboy caps to feathered fedoras.

Dishing out history: A look back at defunct restaurants in Winnipeg

Take an illustrated look back at the culinary history of Winnipeg.

Canucks pull off comeback, top Predators 4-3 in OT

Elias Lindholm scored 1:02 into overtime and the Vancouver Canucks came all the way back to beat the Nashville Predators 4-3 in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series on Sunday.

Canadian women defeat U.S. handily in Pacific Four Series rugby tournament opener

Captain Sophie de Goede scored 18 points, including two tries, as Canada thumped the U.S. 50-7 Sunday in the opening match of Pacific Four Series rugby tournament.

Candace Parker, a 3-time WNBA champion and 2-time Olympic gold medalist, announces retirement

Three-time WNBA champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist Candace Parker announced on social media that her career was over on Sunday after 16 seasons.

'I was scared': Ontario man's car repossessed after missing two repair loan payments

An Ontario man who took out a loan to pay for auto repairs said his car was repossessed after he missed two payments.

Ford just reported a massive loss on every electric vehicle it sold

Ford’s electric vehicle unit reported that losses soared in the first quarter to US $1.3 billion, or US$132,000 for each of the 10,000 vehicles it sold in the first three months of the year.

Local Spotlight

Road closed in Oak Bay, B.C., so elephant seal can cross

Police in Oak Bay, B.C., had to close a stretch of road Sunday to help an elephant seal named Emerson get safely back into the water.

B.C. breweries take home awards at World Beer Cup

Out of more than 9,000 entries from over 2,000 breweries in 50 countries, a handful of B.C. brews landed on the podium at the World Beer Cup this week.

Haida Elder suing Catholic Church and priest, hopes for 'healing and reconciliation'

The lawyer for a residential school survivor leading a proposed class-action defamation lawsuit against the Catholic Church over residential schools says the court action is a last resort.

'It was instant karma': Viral video captures failed theft attempt in Nanaimo, B.C.

Mounties in Nanaimo, B.C., say two late-night revellers are lucky their allegedly drunken antics weren't reported to police after security cameras captured the men trying to steal a heavy sign from a downtown business.

Fergus, Ont. man feels nickel-and-dimed for $0.05 property tax bill

A property tax bill is perplexing a small townhouse community in Fergus, Ont.

Twins from Toronto were Canada's top two female finishers at this year's Boston Marathon

When identical twin sisters Kim and Michelle Krezonoski were invited to compete against some of the world’s most elite female runners at last week’s Boston Marathon, they were in disbelief.

Mystery surrounds giant custom Canucks jerseys worn by Lions Gate Bridge statues

The giant stone statues guarding the Lions Gate Bridge have been dressed in custom Vancouver Canucks jerseys as the NHL playoffs get underway.

'It's a shame': Community holds vigil for White Rock stabbing victim

Dozens of people gathered to mourn at the waterfront promenade in White Rock Sunday, where 27-year-old Kulwinder Sohi was stabbed to death last week.

Toronto transit workers vote 'overwhelmingly' in support of strike mandate

The union representing thousands of transit workers in Toronto says its members have voted “overwhelmingly in support” of a strike mandate.

Ontario to ban cellphones in schools starting in September

Ontario is introducing a suite of measures that will crack down on cellphone use and vaping in schools.

Calgary rezoning public hearing enters second week, hundreds left to speak

The massive public hearing on a controversial rezoning strategy resumes at city hall Monday morning.

Hundreds of Calgarians step up in Crescent Heights to help end homelessness

About 300 people laced up their runners and tackled the McHugh Bluff staircase to help bring an end to homelessness in Calgary.

NEW THIS MORNING | Ottawa looks to move photo radar and red light camera tickets out of provincial courts

A report for the city's finance and corporate services committee recommends the city implement an administrative penalty system for adjudicating parking and camera-based offences, with municipally appointed hearing officers adjudicating ticket disputes instead of the provincial courts system.

BREAKING | 1 killed in single-vehicle crash near Greely

A person was killed after a single-vehicle collision in Ottawa's south end on Sunday night.

Temperatures could reach 25 C in Ottawa this week

Temperatures are expected to climb past the 20 C degree mark in Ottawa during the first week of May.

Rising costs make 'living with dignity' difficult for those with lower income

Over the past year, the rise in the cost of living has been most brutal for those with lower income, according to a new report.

Exhausted, Emilise Lessard-Therrien steps down as Quebec Solidaire spokesperson

Quebec solidaire spokesperson Emilise Lessard-Therrien is stepping down, saying she is completely exhausted.

Skinner posts shutout, Oilers grind out 1-0 win to take 3-1 series lead over Kings

The Edmonton Oilers' offence wasn’t rolling Sunday night, but head coach Kris Knoblauch felt just fine knowing his goalie would get them to the finish line.

4-month-long Stony Plain Road closures to start Monday

A portion of Stony Plain Road will be closed between 131 Street and 139 Street beginning at 7 a.m. on April 29.

Central Alberta queer groups react to request from Red Deer-South to reinstate Jennifer Johnson to UCP caucus

A number of LGBQT+2s groups in Central Alberta are pushing back against a request from the Red Deer South UCP constituency to reinstate MLA Jennifer Johnson into the UCP caucus.

Man injured in early morning stabbing in Fairview: Halifax police

Police in Halifax say they are investigating a stabbing that sent a man to hospital early Monday morning.

Here's where Canadians are living abroad: report

A recent report sheds light on Canadians living abroad--estimated at around four million people in 2016—and the public policies that impact them.

Jeremy Skibicki trial set to begin on Monday

The trial for the man accused of killing four Indigenous women in Winnipeg is set to begin on Monday.

A timeline of the Jeremy Skibicki case

The trial for the man accused of killing four Indigenous women in Winnipeg is set to get underway on April 29.

Nichushkin scores hat trick to lead Avalanche to 5-1 win, leaving Jets on the brink

The Jets will look to avoid elimination in Game 5 on Tuesday night at Canada Life Centre.

Saskatchewan highlights preparations made ahead of wildfire season

Saskatchewan has brought in resources early to prepare for this year's fire season. A drier than normal summer is forecast with eleven fires currently active.

Day of mourning for workplace tragedy attracts large crowds in Regina

Canada's National Day of Mourning on April 28 is dedicated to those who have been injured or lost their lives due to workplace tragedy.

Regina Rebels seize gold at U-18 National Women's Hockey Championship

The Regina Rebels made history over the weekend — taking home gold for the first time ever at the U-18 women's hockey national championships.

Chemical leak near Brantford Municipal Airport

Some Brant County residents were temporarily moved while emergency responders dealt with a chemical leak near the Brantford Municipal Airport.

Man found unconscious and seriously hurt in Kitchener parking lot, police investigating

Waterloo regional police are investigating after they found a man unconscious in a Kitchener parking lot with serious injuries.

Saskatoon Public Schools says budget increase won't cover growing enrollment or class complexity

Saskatoon’s public school board says that despite “record” funding from the province this year, the ministry’s allocation to the division doesn’t make the grade.

Saskatoon care home workers escalating strike action

Workers at group homes run by LutherCare Communities in Saskatoon are escalating their strike action.

Northern Ontario

Fog advisory in effect for parts of the region, showers and thunderstorms expected

Sarnia and Lambton County can expect areas of dense fog, including portions of Highway 402. Visibility may be significantly and suddenly reduced to near zero and travel could be hazardous due to reduced visibility in some locations.

PLAYOFF TRACKER | London remains undefeated as Knights crush Saginaw 3-1 on home ice

The London Knights have taken a 2-0 series lead on the Saginaw Spirit in the OHL Western Conference Final after a 3-1 win Sunday. The 10-0 start to the playoffs is the best in franchise history during the internet era.

Worst-case scenario training during Emergency Preparedness Week

Joining forces with the Canadian Armed Forces and regional first responders for a training exercise, Wasaga Beach will offer a public open house May 4 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Central Ontario regional healthcare job fair

Hospitals in the region have joined forces to host a job fair aimed at recruiting healthcare professionals.

Deadly six-vehicle crash on Highway 400 sparked by road rage incident

One person was killed in a six-vehicle crash on Highway 400 in Innisfil Friday evening.

Motorcycle driver dead after crash with car on Dougall Avenue

A 19-year-old motorcycle driver has died after being struck by a car on Sunday evening. Around 8:30 p.m., police responded to the crash in the southbound lanes of Dougall Avenue near the E.C. Row Expressway.

LaSalle native signs NHL entry-level contract with Detroit

The Detroit Red Wings have signed defenseman Andrew Gibson to a three-year entry-level deal. Gibson, from LaSalle, Ont., has played the last three seasons with the Soo Greyhounds.

Vancouver Island

B.C. man rescues starving dachshund trapped in carrier: BC SPCA

An emaciated dachshund is now recovering thanks to a Good Samaritan who found the pup near a biking trail in Kelowna, according to the BC SPCA.

Search crews called in after missing Kelowna senior's truck found

Search and rescue crews have been called in after a vehicle belonging to a missing senior was located near a rural intersection outside of Kelowna Tuesday.

Bandits get hat trick from Logan Sawyer en route to 8-2 win over Okotoks

The Brooks Bandits got down to business Friday, defeating the Okotoks Oilers 8-2.

'No real winner' following first Alberta NDP leadership debate: political scientist

An Alberta political scientist said the NDP leadership hopefuls remained fairly even following the first of the party’s debates.

Multiple grass fires sparked near Kipp rail yard

It was a busy Wednesday evening for fire crews in Lethbridge County after multiple grass fires were sparked near the Kipp rail yard.

Sault Ste. Marie

Freezing rain warning for parts of northern Ontario

Parts of northeastern Ontario are under a freezing rain warning Monday morning as wet conditions continue across the region.

Sudbury renews commitment to workplace health and safety on 40th anniversary of National Day of Mourning

Greater Sudbury marked the Day of Mourning with ceremony at Laurentian University on Sunday to honour lives lost in workplace accidents and occupational illnesses.

Elliot Lake hospital moving towards ‘normalcy’ with mask-friendly policy

St. Joseph’s General Hospital Elliot Lake says it is moving towards “normalcy” by transitioning to a mask-friendly policy.

Voice of 'Hockey Night in Canada' Bob Cole never considered moving out of St. John's

Legendary sportscaster Bob Cole was a Newfoundlander through and through, and his daughter says his connection to the province was 'everything' to him.

Cenovus fined $2.5 million for biggest oil spill in Newfoundland and Labrador history

Cenovus Energy has been ordered to pay a $2.5-million fine for its role in the largest offshore oil spill ever recorded in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Canada recognizes housing as a human right. Few provinces have followed suit

As more Canadians find themselves struggling to afford or find housing, the country's smallest province is the only one that can point to legislation recognizing housing as a human right.

Shopping Trends

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Editor's Picks

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Updated Biden administration rules will soon affect students across US: What to know

Students and school employees across America will be impacted in the fall by new changes to a rule that affects all federally-funded schools.

Practically, it's a sweeping update to how schools will have to handle sex discrimination and abuse cases. Politically, it's a part of a power struggle between the Trump and Biden administrations.

What's new? The Biden administration released a new set of rules this week overhauling the Trump administration's Title IX rules – which gave more rights to alleged perpetrators of sexual assault and harassment. The new rules also stipulate further protections for LGBTQ+ students as well as parenting and pregnant students.

What is Title IX? Title IX is a civil rights law that bans sex discrimination against students, employees and others at public schools, colleges and universities that receive federal funding.

What were some of the old rules? For cases of sexual assault, they stipulated that schools only had to investigate claims that met a certain threshold of sex discrimination and were made through a formal reporting process. It also raised the bar of proof for sexual misconduct on college campuses. They prohibited investigations of cases that occurred off campus.

Why does the change matter? Critics argued the Trump-era rules prevented people accused of sexual harassment, assault or discrimination from facing repercussions. Supporters contended the rules rightly strengthened due-process protections for accused students or faculty members.

Biden's new Title IX rules will affect people on the nation's school campuses starting in August.

What happened this week?

The Biden administration's new set of guidance overhauls Trump-era rules that in part narrowed which and how schools could investigate sex discrimination cases. President Joe Biden in his 2020 presidential campaign vowed to overturn the changes made under Education Secretary Betsy DeVos.

The new rules expand the definition of sexual assault and harassment. That means schools could investigate more cases of discrimination, abuse or harassment filed by people on school campuses under the scope of the law.

College student survivors will no longer be required to attend live hearings or go through cross examinations. And people will be given the right to "prompt and equitable grievance procedures," the rule reads.

LGBTQ+ students will be guaranteed protection under the law if they are discriminated against for their gender identity or sexual orientation.

Pregnant and parenting students who might receive unwanted sexual attention, shame or punishment at schools will also be granted more protections from sex discrimination in the admissions process and on campus.

“These final regulations build on the legacy of Title IX by clarifying that all our nation’s students can access schools that are safe, welcoming, and respect their rights," said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.

Who is impacted by the changes to Title IX?

The rule changes have a wide range of effects on students, among the most notable examples:

• Sexual assault survivors : The new rules will have sweeping effects on survivors of sexual misconduct and those accused of crimes. Among the changes: The definition of sexual assault will be expanded in K-12 schools and colleges.
• LGBTQ+ students : Biden's Title IX update stipulates protections from sex discrimination based gender identity for the first time.
• Pregnant and parenting students : The new regulations extend the definition of "sex-based harassment" to include pregnant people on campuses.

Ruling on transgender student participation in sports remains unsettled

The Biden administration did not rule on whether transgender and nonbinary students can participate on the sports teams that align with their gender.

The administration released a proposed rule in April 2023 that said schools and colleges largely could not ban nonbinary and transgender students from sports teams in the new Title IX rules.

Contact Kayla Jimenez at [email protected] .  Follow her on X at @kaylajjimenez.