July 19, 2021

Ottawa — The Federal Government has announced today its plan to ease border restrictions, first with the United States in August, and then the rest of the world in September. The plan allows for discretionary travel by fully vaccinated U.S. citizens and permanent residents without having to quarantine starting at 12:01 AM on August 9. Fully vaccinated individuals from other countries will be allowed entry on September 7. Visitors will still require a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival, but the mandatory post arrival test will be eliminated in favour of a random testing regime at ports of entry. Those entering the country must complete a declaration in the ArriveCAN application, which includes vaccine information and a quarantine plan should the traveller fail to meet the requirements for quarantine-free entry. Children under the age of 12 who are not yet eligible for the vaccine will also be allowed entry without having to quarantine, however they should avoid public settings such as schools, camps, and daycares. Non-vaccinated and partially-vaccinated individuals will still only be allowed entry for essential purposes and must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival.