TORONTO —
The U.S. Division of Homeland Safety introduced on Friday {that a} destructive COVID-19 check is not going to be required to enter the nation by way of its land border and ferry terminals, that are scheduled to open on Nov. 8.
When arriving at a land border crossing or a ferry terminal, non-U.S. residents will solely be required to current proof that they’re totally vaccinated.
“We’re happy to take one other step towards easing journey restrictions at our borders in a fashion that strengthens our economic system and protects the well being and security of the American public,” stated Homeland Safety Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas stated in a information launch.
Earlier this month, U.S. officers additionally confirmed that non-U.S. residents with combined vaccine doses would even be accepted. Canada and another international locations have allowed the blending of viral vector vaccines like AstraZeneca with the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines, whereas the U.S. has not.
Whereas a COVID-19 check will not be required to enter the U.S., travellers will nonetheless have to take a PCR check to cross again into Canada. These exams can value upwards of $200.
Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada’s chief public well being officer, defended the testing requirement on Friday, citing the uncertainty surrounding the Delta variant and lingering questions on how lengthy vaccines stay efficient.
The U.S. nonetheless requires a destructive COVID-19 check for air travellers coming into the nation. Nevertheless, travellers can go for the less expensive antigen check, which is not accepted for entry into Canada.
With recordsdata from The Canadian Press.
