5 things you need to know about the latest travel restrictions to Canada
- Canada is tightening its border rules once again, requiring all travelers from certain countries to present a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival, even if fully vaccinated. This unexpected policy shift aims to curb a new viral variant that has spiked cases abroad.
- The updated travel restrictions to Canada now mandate a mandatory quarantine for unvaccinated visitors, lasting at least 10 days. Only those with approved exemptions, like essential workers or medical emergencies, can bypass this rule, making last-minute trips risky.
- Digital health documentation is now a must—travelers must upload their vaccination proof and test results via the ArriveCAN app before boarding. Failure to do so could result in fines or denial of entry, a crackdown that has caught many off guard.
- Surprising many, Canada has removed visa-free travel for citizens of Europe and Mexico, requiring eTA applications that now include a health screening step. This adds days to planning, with processing times jumping to 48 hours.
- For those flying, expect longer lines and spot checks at airports like Toronto Pearson and Vancouver International. Border agents are using new screening tools to verify health records, with reports of denied entry for mismatched details—a viral caution on travel forums.