Canada to reopen its borders with US for non-essential travel

A big hooray for US residents dreaming of their return to international travel, Canada is ready to open its doors from 9 August, while other countries may likely enter from 7 September 2021.

After displaying a 'closed' sign at the border for the last 18 months, Canada's entry restrictions are about to be eased next month, allowing entry to American citizens and permanent residents who are currently residing in the United States and have been fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to entering the country. They will be allowed to enter for non-essential travel and without quarantine.

Here is the full checklist to see if you can travel to Canada*:

 • You must reside in the US
 • Be travelling from the US
 • Be asymptomatic
 • Have a valid pre-arrival molecular test result taken within 72 hours  of your arrival at a land border or your scheduled air departure to Canada.
 • Submit your mandatory information via ArriveCAN, including proof of vaccination
 • Be admissible under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act

You also may be required to take a COVID test on arrival.

On 7 September 2021, provided that the domestic epidemiologic situation remains favourable, the Government intends to open Canada’s borders to any fully vaccinated traveller from other countries.

Entry into the US

Don't forget about returning to the US though. The main thing you need to know is that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requires all air passengers two years of age and over entering the United States (including US citizens and Legal Permanent Residents) to present a negative COVID-19 test, taken within three calendar days of departure​ or proof of recovery from the virus within the last 90 days.

Refer to the CDC Proof of Negative Test Result page for further information.

While the reopening of borders doesn't coincide with the full summer season to explore what Canada has to offer, there's still plenty to do if you already meet all the requirements and organise your trip soon.

View all walking and cycling trip ideas in Canada.

*Sources: Public Health Agency of Canada Border Services Agency

Last updated 27 July 2021. Information is accurate at the time of writing but is subject to change without notice. Please check the COVID-19: Entering Canada requirements checklist for the latest updates or changes to Canada's border entry.