TORONTO (WWNY) – According to the Associated Press, Canada will let fully vaccinated U.S. citizens into the country beginning on August 9, and those from the rest of the world on September 7.
Canadian officials say the 14-day quarantine requirement will be waived as of August 9 for eligible travelers who are currently residing in the United States and have received a full course of a COVID-19 vaccine approved for use in Canada.
Children under 12 who are accompanied by fully vaccinated family members will also be exempt, provided they wear a mask in public places and avoid indoor group settings.
All travelers will still be required to submit a negative COVID-19 test result and proof of vaccination prior to arrival by way of the ArriveCAN smartphone app or web portal, but post-travel test results will no longer be necessary.
Canada Border Services Agency officials will also be subjecting random travelers to a mandatory molecular test upon arrival.
“We’re finally starting to have a little bit of a progress in discussion happening. So, days like today where you hear that there may be some significant changes coming in a few weeks are really good to see and what we’ve been asking for for a while now,” said Corey Fram, director, 1000 Islands International Tourism Council.
As of August 9, airports in Halifax, Quebec City, Ottawa, Winnipeg and Edmonton will also be added to the list of Canadian cities where international flights are permitted to land.
Canadian Public Safety Minister Bill Blair said Monday a date for the U.S. to allow fully vaccinated Canadians to cross the land border isn’t yet known. Any Canadian can fly to the U.S.
“Today’s announcement is a positive and long-overdue step forward by the Canadian government,” said north country Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (R. – 21st District). “The fact that after 16 months of restricted travel the Biden Administration has still not announced a plan for restoring travel into the U.S. is unacceptable. The Biden Administration needs to step up and begin a full reopening of travel into the United States. Extending the current restrictions any further, in light of the progress our Canadian neighbors have announced, would be devastating to every community along the northern border.”
“Canada’s announcement that it will open the border to fully vaccinated U.S. citizens is tremendous news for New York families, businesses and communities. New York and Canada have a deep and valuable economic partnership and I’m grateful for this smart and thoughtful policy,” said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D. – NY).
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