Message to U.S. Citizens in Canada: Canada Announces Additional Restrictions on International Travel
February 1, 2021
On January 29, the Government of Canada announced several new rules on international travel designed to prevent further introduction and transmission of COVID-19 and new variants of the virus into Canada. The full text of the announcement is in this news release.
The following is a summary of the new rules:
- As of January 31, Canada’s airlines have agreed to suspend all flights to and from Mexico and Caribbean countries.
- Effective at 11:59 p.m. EST on February 3, in addition to proof of a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test, all flights, including international commercial, private/business, and charter to Canada must arrive at one of four airports: Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, Calgary International Airport, and Vancouver International Airport.
- In the coming weeks, all air travelers arriving in Canada, with very limited exceptions, must, at their own cost (approximately $2,000 CAD), reserve a room in a Government of Canada-approved hotel for three nights and take a COVID-19 molecular test on arrival. Travelers who test negative may finish their 14-day quarantine at home. Travelers who test positive must finish their 14-day quarantine in a Canadian government-designated facility.
- In the future, the Government of Canada intends to introduce a 72-hour pre-arrival COVID-19 molecular test for travelers seeking entry at the land border, with limited exceptions such as commercial truckers.
You can always find the latest official Canadian Government information online at this website: COVID-19 Travel, quarantine, and borders. Rules and procedures can change quickly. You should review this website for the latest information whenever you are considering travel to, from, or within Canada.
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 in order to continue to receive information and emergency alerts.
Monitor the following U.S. Government websites
- Embassy webpage for information on conditions in Canada.
- Travel Restrictions Fact Sheet for information on COVID-19 Related Travel Restrictions across the U.S. Borders with Canada and Mexico.
- CDC website for the most up-to-date health information.
- COVID-19 page on travel.state.gov for the latest travel information.
- Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection for the latest on travel restrictions for entry to the U.S.
- state.gov’s Canada Information and Travel Advisory page for Canada-specific information.
Monitor the following Canadian Government websites
- Canadian Government’s COVID-19 response website.
- COVID-19 Travel, quarantine, and borders for travel information related to COVID-19.
- Canada Border Services Agency for all information on entry and exit requirements to Canada.
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.
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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.
