Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Ottawa, Canada

Location: Canada, countrywide 

Event:  On December 6, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will implement a one-day COVID-19 testing requirement for air travelers over age two coming to the United States.  Regardless of vaccination status or nationality, any individual coming to the United States must show a negative pre-departure COVID-19 viral test taken the day before they board their flight to the United States.  You must show your negative result to the airline before you board your flight.

If you recently recovered from COVID-19, you may instead travel with documentation of recovery from COVID-19 (i.e., your positive COVID-19 viral test result on a sample taken no more than 90 days before the flight’s departure from a foreign country, and a letter from a licensed healthcare provider or a public health official stating that you were cleared to travel).

These requirements are for all air passengers two years of age or older boarding a flight from a foreign country to the United States.  Travelers arriving at a U.S. land port of entry or ferry terminal will not be required to show a pre-departure negative test.

Actions to Take

Keep STEP Enrollment Active: 

  • Encourage U.S. citizen friends and family to enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)so the U.S. Embassy and Consulates can contact them with updated information.  If you plan to remain in Canada beyond your previously planned travel dates, remember to modify your STEP profile to continue to receive information and emergency alerts.   

Monitor the following U.S. Government websites:

Monitor the following Canadian Government websites: 

Monitor the following additional suggested websites: 

  • Airlines, buses, trains, cruise lines, or travel operators regarding any updated information about your travel plans and/or restrictions.      

Follow us on: 

For Assistance: 

  • The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General are continually monitoring the current situation in Canada and continue to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens.  To contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulates General please find the location closest to you here.