Canada closed for tourism in March 2020. Luckily, those times are over. The COVID-19 situation in the country has improved dramatically. With nearly 70% of its population fully vaccinated, it’s now relatively safe to visit. Therefore, step by step, it is reopening its borders.
On August 9, Canada lifted its ban on American visitors coming for leisure. Beginning September 7, the country also reopens for vaccinated international travelers.
What documents will you need?
There are several documents you must provide to be able to enter Canada.
First of all, Canada is open only for vaccinated visitors. Note that you will be considered vaccinated only 14 days after you have received the full series of the vaccine.
Up to date, Canada approves vaccines from four manufacturers – Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca/Covishield, and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson). The certificate must be issued either in English or French.
Also, you will have to present a negative COVID-19 test result no older than 72 hours.
Quarantine plan
One more thing, all travelers must present their 14-day quarantine plan. They have to specify where they would stay if they are symptomatic, test positive, or don’t meet the requirements for fully vaccinated traveler exemption.
The quarantine plan must include information about the accommodation, how they would get there, and how they would get their essentials, such as groceries and medicine.
The ArriveCAN app
All incoming passengers must submit all those documents, including the quarantine plan, through the ArriveCAN app or website within 72 hours before their arrival.
The app is very easy to use. It will also conveniently store your vaccination certificate and test results for your further travels to Canada
After you arrive
And so, you have successfully arrived. However, the process is not over yet. You will be screened for symptoms. Also, you might be selected for a randomized arrival test.
You will either be asked to get tested directly at the border or receive a home test kit. You don’t have to wait for the test result at the airport. Instead, you can continue to your final destination.
Negative? You are free to go! Don’t forget to store your close contact list for the next 14 days, monitor yourself for symptoms, and follow local measures to stay safe.