5 Key Changes to Travel Restrictions to Canada You Need to Know for Summer Travel
- Canada has officially ended the COVID-19 vaccination requirement for all travelers entering the country as of October 1, 2024, meaning you no longer need to show proof of vaccination to board a plane or cross the border.
- The ArriveCAN app is no longer mandatory for entry by air, land, or sea, though you can still voluntarily use it for customs declarations at major airports to save time.
- Random COVID-19 testing for fully vaccinated or unvaccinated travelers has been suspended indefinitely, so you will not face arrival testing unless you exhibit symptoms on the flight.
- U.S. citizens and permanent residents can still enter Canada with a valid passport, but all foreign nationals (including those from visa-exempt countries like the UK, Australia, and Mexico) must get an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa before travel.
- Even with relaxed restrictions, travelers are strongly advised to check current border wait times and health advisories before departure, as local regulations (such as mask requirements in airports) may vary by province.