It is very much the news we have been waiting for: from November 8, the United States will welcoming Canadian travellers to cross their northern land border, for the first time since 2020. 

The development is long overdue for many, particularly when considering American tourists have been crossing the land border at their leisure, since August 9.

The travel advisory in place in Canada still advises against non-essential international travel. 

How do I know if I’m “fully vaccinated”?

Fortunately for almost 3.9 million Canadians, the United States is now willing to accept mixed vaccination records. Travellers will now be accepted with “any combination” of two doses of a vaccine approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or the World Health Organization. 

Single-dose regimen vaccinations will also be accepted. 

All doses are required to be administered more than two weeks prior to travelling.

What to know about crossing the land border?

The U.S. isn’t currently expected to ask Canadian travellers for a negative covid test crossing at a land or sea port. 

Proof of vaccination will be required along with your normal travel documents.

What if I’m not vaccinated?

Soon vaccines will be required for almost all travel.

From October 30, Canada is requiring passengers and staff of air, rail and marine transportation to be fully vaccinated.

A grace period will remain until the end of November, during which, proof of a negative Covid test will be accepted.