Canada Eases Border Restrictions for Fully Vaccinated Travelers

Canada will take the first step in easing border restrictions next month by waiving mandatory quarantine measures for fully vaccinated Canadians returning to the country.

New Travel Guidelines Starting July 5

Starting July 5, Canadian citizens and permanent residents who have received the final dose of an approved vaccine at least 14 days before arriving will be exempt from having to quarantine and take a COVID-19 test on day 8, as well as exempt from having to stay in a government hotel upon arrival, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada. The country accepts the Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines.

Background on Travel Requirements

Moreover, the new policy comes months after Canada implemented stringent testing requirements for incoming travelers arriving by air. Travelers were required to get tested prior to arriving, tested again upon arrival, and to quarantine in an approved hotel for up to three days while awaiting their results; this has now changed significantly.

Rules for Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Travelers

Under the new rules, vaccinated travelers will still have to get tested before traveling and upon arrival. However, unvaccinated travelers will remain subject to the current quarantine protocols, which are more stringent and require mandatory testing.

Affected Flight Routes

Consequently, flights will continue to be routed through one of four major Canadian cities—Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, or Montreal—ensuring streamlined arrivals for travelers.

Official Statements on Travel Safety

In a recent statement, Canadian Public Safety Minister Bill Blair emphasized, “Our phased approach to easing border measures is guided by facts, scientific evidence, and the advice of our public health experts.” He further added that the government continues to “strongly advise Canadians to avoid non-essential travel,” underscoring the significance of safety during this pandemic.

Current Status of Land Borders

The new rules represent a step toward easing travel restrictions; however, the land border between the United States and Canada remains closed to non-essential travel. Furthermore, there has been an extension of the border closure until at least July 21, impacting cross-border travel plans.

Vaccination Progress in Canada

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has indicated that the border will remain shut until at least 75% of Canadians have received at least one dose of a vaccine, and 20% are considered fully vaccinated. Thus far, just over 73% of eligible Canadians aged 12 and older have received at least one dose, but only about 14.7% are fully vaccinated, according to the government.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for iBestTravel. When she’s not in New York City, she enjoys spending her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram.