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I am an American citizen. What do I need to enter Canada?

American citizens, including American-Canadian citizens, must carry proper identification and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada . You do not need a Canadian passport, a Canadian visa or an eTA to enter Canada if you are travelling with a valid U.S. passport.

New entry requirement now in effect

Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens , and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.

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Canada-U.S. border restrictions: The current rules with ArriveCan, COVID-19 tests, vaccine mandates

With the COVID-19 restrictions at the border to remain in place for at least another month , some Canadians may need a primer on what those rules are.

Public Health Agency of Canada announced that several pandemic restrictions will be extended at Canadian airports and land borders, including vaccine mandates, random COVID-19 tests and the mandatory use of the ArriveCan app, until at least June 30.

While few Canadians may still be anxious about travelling, some are ready to take a vacation after more than two years in a pandemic. CTVNews.ca breaks down what rules travellers need to be aware of as they plan their trips prior to jetting off.

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PRE-ENTRY TEST NO LONGER REQUIRED

As of April 1, fully vaccinated travellers no longer need to provide a negative pre-entry COVID-19 test result to enter Canada by air, land or water.

Passengers may still be subjected to mandatory, random PCR testing at the airport -- in part to monitor for new, emerging COVID-19 variants -- though they will not be required to isolate while awaiting their results.

As of April 25, children aged five to 11 who are travelling with a fully vaccinated parent or guardian will no longer be required to complete a COVID-19 test prior to entering Canada, regardless of whether the child is unvaccinated. Children under the age of five won’t be required to complete a pre-entry COVID-19 test either, and are exempt for vaccination requirements.

ARRIVECAN APP

All travellers coming to Canada, regardless of citizenship or vaccination status, still have to use the ArriveCAN app to submit their health information before arriving in Canada. Travellers must submit their information in ArriveCAN within 72 hours before arrival at a port of entry.

Travellers who arrive without completing their ArriveCAN submission may have to test on arrival and on the eighth day of their 14-day quarantine, regardless of their vaccination status. Foreign nationals may be denied entry as well if they have not completed their ArriveCAN submission.

Any travellers who fail to submit their information and proof of vaccination using ArriveCAN could be fined $5,000.

While travellers still have to use the ArriveCAN app, the federal government has dropped its requirement for those entering the country to monitor for and report any COVID-19 symptoms they experience. Those travelling from abroad also won’t be required to keep a list of close contacts and places visited for the first 14 days after their arrival in Canada.

PROOF OF VACCINATION STILL NEEDED

Despite the lifting of pre-entry test requirements, the requirement to be fully vaccinated with a government-approved COVID-19 vaccine in order to board federally-regulated air, rail, and marine transportation remains in effect.

Pre-entry testing requirements have not changed for partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers who are currently allowed to travel to Canada.

Unless otherwise exempt, all travellers age 12 or older who do not qualify as fully vaccinated – having received at least two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine accepted for travel or a mix of two vaccines – must continue to provide proof of a negative pre-entry COVID-19 test result.

Accepted pre-entry tests include a health professional-administered negative rapid antigen test taken no more than one day before arriving at a port of entry, or a negative molecular test taken no more than 72 hours before a scheduled flight or crossing at a land border.

Partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers may also provide a positive molecular test taken at least 10 days and no more than 180 days before their scheduled flight departure time or their arrival at the land border to enter Canada. Positive antigen test results are not accepted.

The government recommends completing a COVID-19 vaccine series, along with any additional recommended doses in Canada, at least 14 days before travelling internationally. For those who must travel, the government suggests delaying one's plans until they are fully vaccinated.

MASKING DURING TRAVEL AND AFTER ARRIVAL

Canadian adults and children aged five and older who are fully vaccinated are no longer expected to wear a mask in public spaces for 14 days following their arrival in Canada. However, children aged five to 11 who are either unvaccinated or partially vaccinated must continue to wear masks in public settings, such as school, for 14 days after entering Canada.

All travellers are also still required to wear a mask while travelling on federally-regulated modes of transportation, such as a plane or train, regardless of whether they are vaccinated.

BEFORE YOU GO

Prior to travelling, the government recommends checking the COVID-19 testing and vaccination requirements, as well as other entry requirements, at one's destination as they may be different from Canada's rules.

Travellers are also advised by the Canadian government to monitor the COVID-19 situation at their destination in the days before travelling should the status of COVID-19 infections and public health requirements there change.

CRUISE SHIPS

Cruise passengers aged five years or older are required to take an antigen or molecular COVID-19 test in order to board a ship no more than two days before their scheduled departure, but will not need to be tested before getting off the ship.

All other requirements for cruises, including providing proof of vaccination before boarding, remain in place.

The government continues to warn travellers that the virus can spread easily between people in close quarters, such as on cruise ships. The government says the chance of being infected with COVID-19 on cruise ships is still "very high," even for those who are fully vaccinated.

A previous version of this article misstated the timeline for passengers to submit an antigen or a molecular COVID-19 test before boarding a cruise ship.

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Travel Advisory July 17, 2023

Canada - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

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The Montreal consular district includes Greater Montreal and the regions of Southern Quebec Province (Laurentides, Lanaudiere, Laval, Montreal, Montregie, Estrie, and the southern parts of Centre-du-Quebec), including Joliete, Drummondville, and Sherbrooke.

U.S. Consulate General Toronto

360 University Ave Toronto, Ontario M5G 1S4 Canada Telephone:  +1 (416) 595-1700 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (416) 201-4056 Fax:  +1 (416) 595-5466 Email:  [email protected]

The consular district includes the province of Ontario except for the counties of Kingston, Lanark, Leeds, Prescott, Refrew, Russell, and Stormont, which are served by the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa.

U.S. Consulate General Vancouver

1075 West Pender Street Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 2M6 Canada Telephone:  +1 (604) 685-4311 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (604) 685-4311 Fax:  +1 (604) 685-7175 Email:  [email protected]

The consular district includes British Columbia and the Yukon Territory.

U.S. Consulate General Halifax

Purdy's Wharf Tower II 1969 Upper Water Street, Suite 904 Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3R7 Canada Telephone:  +1 (902) 429-2480 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (902) 429-2480, Press 1 Email:  [email protected]

The Halifax consular district includes New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and the French islands of Saint Pierre and Miquelon.

U.S. Consulate Winnipeg

201 Portage Avenue, Suite 860 Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 3K6 Canada Telephone:  +1 (204) 940-1800 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (403) 266-8962 and press "0" for assistance (Consulate General Calgary) Fax:  +1 (204) 940-1809

The Consulate in Winnipeg provides only emergency services for U.S. citizens. Routine services such as visas, passports and notarials are handled at other U.S. Consulates General, primarily Calgary.

U.S. Consulate General Quebec  2, rue de la Terrasse Dufferin (Vieux Quebec, behind Chateau Frontenac) Quebec, Quebec G1R 4T9 Canada Telephone:  +1 (418) 692-2095 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +1 (418) 692-2096 Fax:  +1 (418) 692-4640 Email:   [email protected]

The consular district includes Quebec City and those regions of Quebec Province to the North and East of the Montreal and Ottawa Districts (indicated above) – to include the area around Saguenay/Lac Saint-Jean, Rimouski and the Gaspé Peninsula – as well as the Territory of Nunavut.

U.S. Consulate General Calgary  615 Macleod Trail S.E., 10th Floor Calgary, Alberta T2G 4T8 Canada Telephone:  +1 (403) 266-8962 Fax:  +1 (403) 264-6630 Email:   [email protected] The consular district includes Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories, excluding Nunavut.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

For tourist visits to Canada of less than 180 days, U.S. citizens do not need visas. Other types of travel generally require visas. Visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for current information.

If you have a criminal record, you may be unable to enter Canada. To determine whether you are criminally inadmissible and get information about how to overcome this finding, refer to the  IRCC website .  Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officials determine if you can enter Canada in accordance with Canadian law.  

Travel Programs:  Both the U.S. and Canadian governments urge frequent travelers to join the  NEXUS trusted traveler program .

Entry into Canada:  Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry proof of citizenship and identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens.

Children under 16 only need proof of U.S. citizenship.

Entry into the United States:  When traveling by air from Canada, U.S. citizens must present a U.S. passport book or other approved identification document. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website provides a full list of allowable documents.

Travel with Minors:  If you plan to travel to Canada with a minor for whom you do not have full legal custody, CBSA may require a letter of authorization from the minor’s parents or legal guardian(s). Please refer to the  CBSA website  for more details.

Private Boaters Entering Canada:  Canadian law requires all foreign private boaters, including recreational vessels, to present themselves upon their arrival in Canada to the CBSA. See the  CBSA website  for relevant reporting requirements.

Private Boaters Exiting Canada: Boaters may report their arrival to the United States or apply for a registered boater program using the CBP Reporting Offsite Arrival – Mobile (CBP ROAM) app. Please visit the  CBP ROAM webpage for more information.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to Canada. For information on restrictions for HIV positive foreign residents of Canada visit the IRCC website .

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

911 is the emergency telephone number in Canada.

Crime: Although Canada generally has a lower crime rate than the United States, violent crimes occur throughout the country, especially in urban areas. Criminals may target parked cars, especially in large cities and popular tourist destination, for opportunistic smash-and-grab thefts. Do not leave unattended possessions in a vehicle, even in the trunk. Some jurisdictions such as Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver may fine you for leaving your car doors unlocked or for leaving valuables in view. Pickpockets may target you, especially in popular tourist areas. Exercise caution. Safeguard yourself and your property.

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

While there is a very small likelihood of violence at a political gathering in Canada, we strongly encourage U.S. citizens to avoid all protests and demonstrations and maintain a high level of vigilance and practice good situational awareness when traveling abroad.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI   pages for information.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.  Report crimes to the local police at 911 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +1(613) 688-5335. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

•    Help you find appropriate medical care

•    Assist you in reporting a crime to the police

•    Contact relatives or friends with your written consent

•    Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion

•    Provide a list of local attorneys

•    Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.

•    Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution

•    Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home

•    Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulates for assistance.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. 

Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. If you are considering travel outside of populated areas, particularly in the northern Arctic territories, you need to know that search and rescue capabilities are limited because of extreme isolation and the harsh climate. You must be prepared for significant delays in receiving emergency assistance in these areas and plan accordingly.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .  

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Controlled Substances:  Canadian law prohibits possession and trafficking of controlled substances and narcotics, including some substances that may be legal to possess under the law of certain U.S. states. Canada has legalized the personal consumption of recreational cannabis, but Canadian law prohibits taking cannabis across Canada’s national borders . Drug smugglers risk substantial fines, a permanent bar from Canada, and imprisonment.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad  

Firearms : Canada controls firearms more strictly than the United States. Violation of firearms restrictions may result in prosecution and imprisonment.

Visitors bringing any firearms or ammunition into Canada must declare the firearms in writing using a Non-Resident Firearm Declaration form. If you plan to borrow and use a firearm in Canada, you must obtain a Temporary Firearms Borrowing License in advance. You must present these forms in triplicate and sign them in front of a CBSA officer at the border. (It is not possible to make photocopies at the border). Full details and downloadable forms are available at the Canadian Firearms Program website .

Canadian law requires officials to confiscate firearms, ammunition, and other weapons from persons crossing the border who do not declare having the items in their possession. Officials will not return confiscated firearms, ammunition, and weapons and possession of any of these items may result in your arrest and imprisonment. You should inspect all belongings thoroughly before traveling to Canada to avoid the accidentally importing firearms, ammunition, or other weapons.

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Canada. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Pornography: Canada has strict laws concerning child pornography, and in recent years there has been an increase in random checks of electronic media of travelers entering Canada.

Canadian officials may search your computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices without a warrant at the border and illegal content can result in the seizure of the device as well as detention, arrest, and prosecution of the bearer.

Tax Issues:  For information on U.S. Federal tax issues, please refer to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website for international taxpayers .

• Refer to this link for reporting requirements regarding Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) .
• Refer to this link for information on the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) .
• Refer to this link for information about the Voluntary Disclosure Practice .

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Canada prohibitsdiscrimination against persons with physical or mental disabilities and the law is enforced.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. For more information, visit the Accessibility Standards Canada website .

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Canada, dial 911 . Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Health Canada to ensure the medication is legal in Canada.

Healthcare in Canada : The level of public health and sanitation in Canada is high. Adequate health facilities are available throughout Canada.  Canada’s medical care is of a high standard but is government controlled. Access to ongoing medical care is difficult for temporary visitors who are not members of a Canadian province’s government-run health care plan. Many physicians will not take new patients. Specialist care is only by referral and may take months to obtain. Although trauma-care is on par with that in the United States, emergency room waits for non-life threatening problems can be very long. Some health care professionals in the Quebec may only speak French.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all CDC-recommended vaccinations .

Further health information:

World Health Organization U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Air Quality:  Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery: We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.

Pharmaceuticals:  U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:  If you are considering traveling to Canada to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  As in the United States, all emergency assistance in Canada can be reached by dialing 911.

For detailed information on road conditions throughout Canada, as well as links to provincial government websites, please see the Transport Canada website or the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) website. The CAA honors American Automobile Association memberships. Automobile warranties of vehicles purchased in the United States may not be valid in Canada.

Winter travel can be dangerous due to heavy snowfalls and hazardous icy conditions. Some provinces require snow tires. CAA has tips for winter driving . Both winter conditions and wildfires may prompt the sudden closure of highways. Provincial ministries of transport typically post closures and other alerts about road conditions on their websites.

Traffic Laws:  Driving in Canada is similar to driving in many parts of the United States. Distances and speeds, however, are posted in kilometers per hour and some signs, particularly in Québec, may only be in French. U.S. driver’s licenses are valid for visitors in Canada. Proof of auto insurance is required. U.S. auto insurance is accepted  for tourists in Canada. For specific information concerning Canadian driving permits, mandatory insurance, and entry regulations, please contact the Canadian National Tourist Organization .

Some provinces require drivers to keep their vehicles’ headlights on during the day and some have banned driving while using a hand-held cell phone. Motorcycles cannot share a lane, and safety helmets for motorcycle riders and passengers are mandatory.

It is illegal to take automobile radar detectors into Québec, Ontario, Manitoba, the Yukon, or the Northwest Territories, regardless of whether they are used. Police may confiscate radar detectors and impose substantial fines.

Drivers approaching border crossings into the United States may encounter traffic backups. Drivers should be alert, as lane restrictions at border approaches exist for drivers in NEXUS and FAST expedited inspection programs.

Public Transportation: Public transportation options vary across Canada, but all cities and most major towns have a public transit system .

Aviation Safety Oversight:   The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Canada’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Canada’s air carrier operations.  Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Canada should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Canada .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

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Burma (Myanmar)

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Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

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Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

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Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

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Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

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Sierra Leone

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Solomon Islands

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Canada Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Canada

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required on public transportation.

Canada entry details and exceptions

Ready to travel, find flights to canada, find stays in canada, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

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Can I travel to Canada from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Canada.

Can I travel to Canada if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Canada without restrictions.

Can I travel to Canada without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Canada without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Canada?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Canada.

Can I travel to Canada without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Canada?

Mask usage in Canada is not required on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Canada?

Restaurants in Canada are open. Bars in Canada are .

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U.S.-Canada Border Crossing: What You Need to Know

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Table of Contents

Who can travel from the U.S. to Canada?

How many border crossings are there between the u.s. and canada, checklist for a u.s.-canada border crossing, special cases for alaska residents, if you want to cross the u.s.-canada border ….

Borders between the U.S. and Canada recently reopened to travelers more than a year after having closed due to COVID-19. Now, many who are eager to explore our neighbor to the north are left wondering what’s involved in a border crossing and what guidelines they’ll need to adhere to for a successful journey.

If you’re anxious to visit Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver or Calgary, here’s what to know to plan your U.S.-Canada border crossing, whether by land, air or sea.

Currently, Canadian borders are open to all U.S. citizens wishing to enter regardless of vaccination status. However, the requirements for entry will vary based on your vaccination status.

Fully vaccinated travelers no longer need to provide a negative COVID test for entry, but must still use the ArriveCAN app to submit mandatory entry information, including proof of vaccination, at least 72 hours prior to arrival and/or before boarding a cruise ship destined for Canada.

Not fully vaccinated? You won’t be able to visit Canada if you’re traveling for discretionary or leisure purposes. If you don't qualify as a fully vaccinated traveler but still need to travel to Canada for reasons other than leisure, you’ll be required to quarantine for 14 days, take a molecular COVID test, and register for a COVID test upon your arrival in the country, which you can do in advance to save time.

» Learn more: What COVID test is required for travel?

There are more than 100 land border crossings between the U.S. and Canada, and wait time to cross can vary widely.

At most crossings, how long you wait depends on the time of day and the day of the week. Some crossings have little to no delay at off-peak travel times, and others, like Buffalo, New York, can log wait times around 40 minutes.

If you want to set appropriate expectations for how long it takes to cross the U.S.-Canada border, check the Government of Canada website , which is updated hourly.

» Learn more: Need a passport for a trip? Give yourself a big time cushion

If you're fully vaccinated and traveling to Canada, whether by car, plane or boat, you still have to follow certain protocols. To meet entry requirements, you must:

Have no symptoms of COVID-19.

Have received all doses of a COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 full days before you enter Canada.

Upload your proof of vaccination in ArriveCAN , an app that provides border crossing info and stores important documentation.

Have your required entry documents.

NOTE: As of April 1, 2022, fully vaccinated travelers no longer need to provide a negative test for entry.

» Learn more: 4 differences between a passport book and card

If you don’t meet all the requirements of a fully vaccinated traveler, you’ll have to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. You may also be selected for a random arrival test at some airports and land crossings. These may take place at the airport or a designated testing site, or you may be provided with a do-it-yourself kit that you can send in once you arrive at your final destination.

If you live in Alaska, you may sometimes have to drive through Canada to get to certain regions of the state. Unvaccinated Alaska residents who must pass through Canada for necessary purposes (i.e. not for leisure or recreation) may do so without pre-entry and arrival COVID tests, but they must remain in their vehicle while driving through Canada. They'll also likely be given a specimen collection kit when they cross a land border into Canada.

If you're leaving Alaska to travel to the lower forty-eight, or if you're returning to Alaska after being in another state, you may also be granted special permission to pass through Canada. However, if you’re not fully vaccinated you will need a negative COVID molecular test result to enter. You'll also need proof that you live in Alaska if you’re driving north, or proof of residence or employment in the lower forty-eight if driving south.

The key to a successful U.S.-Canadian border crossing is preparation. Make sure you know what documentation and information you need well in advance of your arrival at the border or the airport. Ensure everything is in order and uploaded to the ArriveCAN app, and be patient. Above all, travel safely.

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75,000 Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel.

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Latest border and travel measures

This news release may not reflect the current border and travel measures. Check COVID-19: Travel, testing and borders for the latest requirements to enter Canada.

Important notice

Note that information and resources on the coronavirus (COVID-19) are available on Canada.ca. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html

Government of Canada expands restrictions to international travel by land and air

From: Public Health Agency of Canada

News release

The Government of Canada is announcing today further testing and quarantine requirements for international travellers arriving to Canada’s air and land ports of entry. These new measures will help prevent variants of concern from reaccelerating the pandemic and making it more difficult to contain.

February 12, 2021 | Ottawa, ON | Government of Canada

Canada has some of the strictest travel and border measures in the world, including a mandatory 14-day quarantine for everyone returning to the country. With new COVID-19 variant detections increasing in the country, the Government of Canada is announcing today further testing and quarantine requirements for international travellers arriving to Canada’s air and land ports of entry. These new measures will help prevent variants of concern from reaccelerating the pandemic and making it more difficult to contain.

For travellers arriving to Canada by land, as of February 15, 2021, all travellers, with some exceptions, will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours of pre-arrival, or a positive test taken 14 to 90 days prior to arrival. In addition, as of February 22, 2021, travellers entering Canada at the land border will be required to take a COVID-19 molecular test on arrival as well as toward the end of their 14-day quarantine.

All travellers arriving to Canada by air, as of February 22, 2021, with some exceptions, will be required to take a COVID-19 molecular test when they arrive in Canada before exiting the airport, and another toward the end of their 14-day quarantine period. With limited exceptions, air travellers, will also be required to reserve, prior to departure to Canada, a 3-night stay in a government-authorized hotel. Travellers will be able to book their government-authorized stay starting February 18, 2021. These new measures are in addition to existing mandatory pre-boarding and health requirements for air travellers.

Finally, at the same time on February 22, 2021, all travellers, whether arriving by land or air will be required to submit their travel and contact information, including a suitable quarantine plan, electronically via ArriveCAN before crossing the border or boarding a flight.

The Government of Canada continues to strongly advise Canadians to cancel or postpone any non-essential travel, including vacation plans, outside Canada. Foreign nationals should likewise postpone or cancel travel plans to Canada. Now is not the time to travel.

“I want to thank Canadians who continue to make sacrifices to protect each other from COVID-19. We continue to detect variants of concerns, and this is why we are putting these additional measures in place. Now is not the time to travel, so please cancel any plans you might have." The Honourable Patty Hajdu Minister of Health

“With these additional COVID testing requirements and safety measures at the land border we are taking extra steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and its variants. As we do for air travel, we are now also requiring travellers by land to provide information using ArriveCAN to facilitate processing and limit points of contacts between border services officers and travellers. We’ll always prioritize the health and safety of Canadians as we make decisions.” The Honourable Bill Blair Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

“We’re moving forward with these critical measures to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and the introduction of new variants of the virus into Canada. At the same time, we recognize the importance of the continued movement of goods and the ongoing delivery of essential services in Canada. Our government’s response to this pandemic includes necessary measures to protect the health and safety of Canadians while keeping our economy going.” The Honourable Omar Alghabra Minister of Transport

Quick facts

Canadians citizens, persons registered under the Indian Act and permanent residents arriving by land to Canada, who do not present a valid COVID-19 molecular test, will be allowed entry, but may be subject to a fine of up to $3,000 per day or face criminal prosecution. Travellers may also be required to go to a designated quarantine facility if they are symptomatic on arrival at the border, or do not have a suitable quarantine plan.

Foreign nationals who have obtained an exemption to enter Canada, will be refused entry, with limited exceptions, if they do not have a valid COVID-19 molecular test result. 

Failure to provide accurate information is an offence under the Quarantine Act . In addition, violating any quarantine or isolation instructions provided to travellers by a screening officer or quarantine officer when entering Canada is an offence under the Quarantine Act and could lead to serious penalties, including 6 months in prison and/or $750,000 in fines.

Exemptions continue to be in place to ensure that economic supply chains continue between Canada and the U.S. The Government of Canada is closely engaging the Biden Administration on our respective border measures and we continue to keep the lines of communication open.

Associated links

• Infographic for travellers arriving by air
• Infographic for travellers arriving by land
• Backgrounder - Additional testing and more stringent quarantine requirements for travel to Canada
• COVID-19: Travel, quarantine and borders
• COVID-19 measures, updates, and guidance issued by Transport Canada
• Group Exemption from Quarantine under 6(e) of the Order

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My bags were packed, then I got COVID. What should I do? Travel options to weigh.

I just tested positive for COVID-19. Should I travel anyway?

Variations of that question are spiking on Google Search ( as we experience a significant surge in both summer travel and new coronavirus cases.

If you travel for work or pleasure and haven’t yet dealt with the question of whether to fly with COVID-19, chances are at some point you will. 

President Joe Biden just tested positive while campaigning in Las Vegas. Several Tour de France riders are also dealing with the latest bout of COVID-19. And I picked it up earlier this month during a recent cross-country trip, testing positive just two days before I was supposed to fly to Alaska to help my parents − ages 79 and 85 − move out of their recently sold family home. 

Ethically, I didn’t feel right about getting on a plane knowing I had COVID-19 and certainly couldn’t show up to my parent's house with the virus. But the last-second scramble to rebook the trip, with our dog, my husband, and my parents still needing my help, was super-stressful. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Should I fly if I just tested positive for COVID? 

Technically, you can fly sick − no one is going to stop you at the gate and swab your nose − but you shouldn’t. 

Just because the airlines no longer require you to show proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test ahead of your international flight, as they sometimes did during the earlier years of the pandemic, doesn’t mean travel should be a germ free-for-all. 

“I suggest that you not fly,” Vicki Sowards, director of nursing resources at Passport Health, wrote via email. “You can expose the other travelers on your flight, and the process of traveling can contribute to fatigue and an increase in symptoms.”

If you know you have COVID-19, or think you might, you should not get on a plane, according to health experts, the CDC , and everyone who weighed in on my social media pages this past week. 

“Should you travel if you have COVID? Absolutely not. Other people are immunocompromised, so essentially, you could kill innocent people,” says 56-year-old Nick Longo from Corpus Christi, Texas. Longo travels outside America “at least once a year” and flies within the U.S. frequently. “Do I think a lot of people are flying with it right now? Yes. People who don't care about others are (flying).That's why it spread.” 

Mike Hensley, 54, of Northern California, agrees.

“It's a simple answer,'' he wrote. "No. You should not travel. That's how viruses spread quickly. But yes, I am sure people are traveling while positive because they think it's a seasonal allergy or cold, have convinced themselves they don't feel that bad, or are already on the upswing (and don't know/care about how viruses work) or are simply just selfish and don't care about the people they are exposing.”

I’ve been on a dozen planes over the past few months, and anecdotally, it’s true that a lot of people are sniffling, sneezing and coughing − with nary a mask in sight. 

Another traveler told me she knew three people who flew to Europe from California even though they had COVID-19. She and her parents, on the other hand, changed their travel plans last month when they came down with the virus, delaying their flight until they had tested negative for three days.

Should I wear a mask on the plane? 

The CDC , World Health Organization , Mayo Clinic and many other medical professionals agree masks help lower the risk of respiratory virus transmission, especially in tight quarters, like planes, trains, buses and automobiles.  Officials say N95 masks are the most effective. 

Anecdotally, there seems to be a lot of people choosing to fly unmasked − either knowing they have COVID-19 or not testing to find out when they have symptoms. There’s no doubt people are tired of masks and the pandemic, and many are likely treating COVID-19 like the seasonal flu or a cold − something they’ll just have to deal with when they get it. 

Some people even wrote on my social media pages that when it comes to travel, they are not concerned about passing the virus on to others because they feel it's a risk people knowingly take when they get on a plane these days. 

That last sentiment struck a nerve with me because I suspect that's how I contracted COVID-19 two Julys in a row, right after cross-country work trips that coincided with peak summer travel and virus spikes. 

What should you do if you are COVID-positive right before a planned trip? 

Even though I’m vaccinated and received my last booster in December 2023, I have some risk factors and got so sick from COVID-19 last summer that I couldn’t do much of anything for about two weeks.

I initially thought I was experiencing seasonal allergies and waited a few days before testing. By the time I did, I was already pretty sick. I had extreme headaches, head and chest congestion, muscle aches and fatigue, and I lost my sense of taste and smell for almost two months.

This summer was different. Even though I barely had a tickle in the back of my throat, I was tired and achy and knew something was off, so I took a test right away. When it came back positive, I started on Paxlovid immediately and pushed the trip to Alaska back. 

I didn’t fly until my test was negative, and I still wore a mask the entire time I was on the plane. (I didn’t eat or drink the entire flight.) I will continue to wear one indoors until every last symptom (I still have slight sniffles) goes away, even though I’ve now met the latest guidelines of having two negative tests 48 hours apart. It’s not worth the risk of getting my parents − or anyone else − sick. 

I admit, I’ve gotten much more lax about masking up on planes this past year. I often feel a little self-conscious being one of the only people wearing one, but getting sick isn’t worth it. I plan to wear one on all upcoming flights. 

What are the latest CDC guidelines? 

I have several friends who, as long as they are feeling well enough, are expected to put on a mask and go back into the office for work, even with COVID-19. What exactly are the rules now?

The latest CDC guidelines , updated in March, say you can go  back to your normal activities if you meet two requirements:

• You have been fever-free for at least 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medications) .
• Your symptoms are improving overall.

You might still be contagious, however, and the CDC recommends that for at least five days after resuming your routine, you:  

• Wash your hands frequently.
• Practice physical distancing (especially from people with risk factors from respiratory illness).
• Take additional steps for cleaner air .

In addition to the CDC guidelines,  the FDA recommends “2 negative antigen tests for individuals with symptoms or three antigen tests for those without symptoms, performed 48 hours apart” before you go back to being around people. 

Travel insurance: What are the most affordable options?

What if I can’t afford to quarantine or be sick away from home? 

The costs of flight changes, extended stays, and even additional time away from work add up. Does that mean you should stop traveling? No, but you should have a COVID-19 plan that protects others, Richard Martinello , medical director of infection prevention at Yale New Haven Health in Connecticut, told Outside Magazine recently. 

Martinello urges people to consider the moral and ethical ramifications of putting other people in harm’s way, “like not drunk driving,” he said. “Putting yourself in prolonged close contact with fellow travelers when you are knowingly sick, whether with COVID or any other contagious virus, is irresponsible. You never know who you’re sitting next to on a plane. If they’re immune-compromised, even a cold could push them over the edge to serious illness.”

Be sure to check your airline’s COVID-19 policies before you buy your ticket. Many still waive change fees for travelers who need to reschedule because they have the virus. For even more protection, book a ticket that can be changed or credited if you have to cancel your flight, and look into travel insurance . 

I almost always fly Alaska Airlines and usually pay a little extra to make my trip 100% refundable, no matter what. I didn’t do that for this latest flight (to save $280 for my husband and me) and ended up paying one $37 change fee for the difference in ticket prices between the day I was supposed to fly and the day I did. Many airlines will also give you full credit for a future flight if you have to cancel because of illness. 

How can I stay safe while traveling?

Passport Health’s Vicki Sowards says being prepared is vital. She urges travelers to get vaccinations like COVID-19 boosters before travel and pack a first aid kit, including any medications they use when they’re ill. 

“You want optimal health when going on the ‘trip of a lifetime,’” she said. Because COVID-19 spreads through airborne particles and droplets, “take a mask and sanitizer on the plane, just in case you have a seatmate or other traveler close by who is coughing and appears to be ill. Use hand sanitizer before eating or when you know you will be touching your face.”

Jennifer Jolly is an Emmy Award-winning consumer tech columnist and on-air correspondent. The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author's and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. Contact her at [email protected] . 

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Higgins marks full reopening of US-Canada border with push to ease travel & grow tourism

US vaccine mandate ends May 11

Congressman Brian Higgins spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives during National Travel and Tourism Week, calling the end of COVID-19 restrictions at the northern border “a turning point in rebuilding the interconnected relationships and economies communities along the U.S.-Canada border enjoy.”

The U.S. will drop its coronavirus vaccine requirement on Canadians entering the U.S. at the end of the day on May 11, ending three years of what Higgins’ team called “fluctuating travel restrictions.”

A press release noted, “May 7-13 is recognized as National Travel and Tourism Week. Domestic and international travel spending in Congressman Higgins’ Western New York district alone reached $3.1 billion in 2019, but took a serious hit during COVID. While the industry is starting to see a post-pandemic boost, Higgins encouraged further action to help support economic and job growth.”

Higgins went on to say, “Let’s seek out opportunities to encourage and ease travel in the United States. This includes adequately funding federal agencies to support travel, investing in infrastructure, and modernizing NEXUS and passports to improve the travel experience.”

Earlier this year, Higgins introduced the “Make NEXUS Work Act,” a bill his team said would expedite NEXUS processing by allowing for virtual interviews. “He has pushed for adequate staffing and increased technology to improve efficiencies at land ports of entry. And he previously fought for and won the establishment of a U.S. passport office in Buffalo, which has doubled its processing operations and local jobs over the last decade.

“Higgins has also been an advocate for projects and programs that drive tourism in Western New York, including waterfront and community investments, as well as federal support for the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor and the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area.”

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What to know about COVID symptoms, CDC guidelines if you test positive

By nbc chicago staff • published august 11, 2024 • updated on august 11, 2024 at 6:43 pm.

Though the summer of 2024 has been life back to normal in many ways throughout the world in regards to the COVID-19 pandemic, those who have tested positive for the virus recently may be wondering what has changed in regards to symptoms and CDC guidelines.

While weekly case data is no longer reported by the Illinois Department of Public Health, those who have recently attended Lollapalooza or other major events may have tested positive in recent days.

📺 24/7 Chicago news stream: Watch NBC 5 free wherever you are

If you contracted COVID in past months or years, the guidelines may be different this time around, due to significant changes initiated by the CDC earlier this year.

Here's what to know:

In March, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its COVID guidelines to mirror guidance for other respiratory infections. Those who contracted COVID-19 no longer need to stay away from others for five days, the CDC said, effectively nixing the five-day isolation recommendation.

COVID symptoms summer 2024: What to watch for as new variants rise, spread

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KP.3 COVID variant is dominant in the US: What are the symptoms?

People can return to work or regular activities if their symptoms are mild and improving and it's been a day since they've had a fever, but the CDC still recommends those with symptoms stay home.

"The recommendations suggest returning to normal activities when, for at least 24 hours, symptoms are improving overall, and if a fever was present, it has been gone without use of a fever-reducing medication," the guidance states.

Once activities are resumed, the CDC still recommends "additional prevention strategies" for an additional five days, including wearing a mask and keeping distance from others.

The agency is emphasizing that people should still try to prevent infections in the first place, by getting vaccinated, washing their hands, and taking steps to bring in more outdoor fresh air.

Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter .

As part of the guidance, the CDC suggests:

• Staying  up to date with vaccination   to protect people against serious illness, hospitalization, and death. This includes flu, COVID-19, and RSV if eligible.
• Practicing good hygiene  by covering coughs and sneezes, washing or sanitizing hands often, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
• Taking steps for cleaner air , such as bringing in more fresh outside air, purifying indoor air, or gathering outdoors. 

The change comes at a time when COVID-19 is no longer the public health menace it once was. It dropped from being the nation's third leading cause of death early in the pandemic to 10th last year.

Most people have some degree of immunity to the coronavirus from past vaccinations or from infections. And many people are not following the five-day isolation guidance anyway, some experts say.

What are the symptoms?

• Sore throat
• Muscle aches
• Altered sense of smell
• Fever or chills
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Nausea or vomiting

Last year, a Chicago-area doctor  said she's noticed shifts in the most common symptoms  her patients reported as the JN.1 variant rose to dominance.

Dr. Chantel Tinfang, a family medicine physician with Sengstacke Health Center at Provident Hospital of Cook County, noted at the time that many of the cases she saw reported less of the fever, body aches and chills, and presented more with sore throat, fatigue and coughing.

"We still see some patients experiencing decreased appetite, a loss of taste or smell. So it kind of depends," she said. "One patient was just very, very tired. Like she couldn't really do much. And that's when you know ... it's different. It's not just coughing and shortness of breath. We still see that though."

She suggested consulting with your doctor if your symptoms don't begin to improve outside of the recommended isolation period.

As for timing, symptoms can last for several days, but in some cases, even longer.

"Some people who have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 can experience long-term effects from their infection, known as Long COVID or Post-COVID Conditions (PCC)," according to the CDC.

Such symptoms can last for weeks and possibly even years.

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• Summer Sports

From the pool to the track and beyond, Canada made history at the Paris Olympics

Canadians won an unprecedented 27 medals at a games to remember.

Win or lose, rise or fall, Team Canada had us glued to our screens at the Paris Olympics

Social sharing.

In a race few picked Canada to win, Andre De Grasse anchored the men's 4x100m relay team to gold for the first time in nearly 30 years.

They qualified for the final with the slowest time, running in a less-than-ideal lane. But these four men never gave up on each other, and years of running together helped them become Olympic relay champions.

"I never stopped believing," said gold medallist Aaron Brown. "These guys can do incredible things when we get together and put our minds to it."

It was the latest chapter in the story of one of Canada's greatest Olympians. De Grasse is now tied with swimmer Penny Oleksiak as the most decorated Canadian Olympian of all time with seven medals, and his story is still being written.

It was also a reminder of the magic of the Olympics. If you have a lane, you have a chance, and anyone can write a great story that people will remember forever.

WATCH | De Grasse and the relay team's stunning comeback:

Andre De Grasse and the relay team’s stunning gold medal comeback

And Canada's athletes have written many great stories in these Summer Games, which officially ended with the closing ceremony inside the Stade de France on Sunday.

Canadian athletes earned 27 medals, including nine gold. It's more than any other non-boycotted Summer Games, and the majority have been won by women, which isn't a new trend .

It started on day one with Summer McIntosh, the 17-year-old swimming sensation who raced American legend Katie Ledecky for silver in the women's 400m freestyle.

• Future bright for 'golden age' of Canadian swimmers as focus shifts to Los Angeles 2028
• Summer McIntosh is already a generational great, and she's just getting started

On Sunday morning, McIntosh was announced as one of Canada's flag-bearers for the closing ceremony, alongside hammer thrower Ethan Katzberg.

McIntosh went back to Canada briefly, but said the gravity of what she has accomplished hasn't quite sunk in yet.

WATCH | Paris 2024 just the beginning for McIntosh:

For Summer McIntosh, Paris 2024 is only the beginning

"I think the main thing that's going to take the longest to sink in is being flag-bearer because it is such an honour and once in a lifetime," McIntosh said. "This is definitely something that I'll appreciate and hold close to my heart forever."

History made

Canada medalled in 15 different sports in these Games, tied for the most widespread success the country has ever seen at a Games, according to the Canadian Olympic Committee. Some came in sports that haven't always been strengths for Canada.

• How a close-knit support group led Christa Deguchi back to judo — and an Olympic title
• How Hamilton's Eleanor Harvey went from thinking about retirement to an Olympic medal

Eleanor Harvey won Canada's first fencing medal, earning bronze in the women's individual foil, while Philip Kim (known as Phil Wizard onstage) became the first B-Boy to win gold in the sport's Olympic debut.

Alysha Newman overcame injuries to make her first pole vault final in five years en route to winning bronze — the first Canadian woman to win a medal in the sport.

"It's the start of something amazing for Canadian pole vaulters," Newman said.

"It definitely had to be done so a lot of girls and the next generation know they are fully capable of jumping these heights and this type of talent at the Olympic Games."

• Inside Canada's rise to hammer-throwing greatness

"It's really exciting to be able to have a moment like this to close out the games and kind of re-live what we've been able to accomplish — not ourselves, but as a country," Katzberg said after being announced as flag-bearer for Canada, news he received while training in Slovakia.

His Olympic dreams began in 2010, watching the Games in his home province of British Columbia. What these athletes did at these Games could spark a dream for the next great judoka, hammer thrower or fencer.

Beyond inspiring the next generation, athletes who are leaving Paris with medals are making some extra cash , on top of the added visibility that could help earn needed sponsorships.

WATCH | McIntosh and Katzberg on being selected as Canada's closing ceremony flag-bearers:

McIntosh, Katzberg on being selected as Canada's flag-bearers for Paris 2024 closing ceremony

The agony of defeat.

The margin between victory and defeat can be thin, and that was no different at these Games. 

Katie Vincent became the first Canadian woman to be crowned Olympic champion in canoe-kayak, after finishing 0.01 second ahead of American Nevin Harrison in the C-1 200m canoe sprint.

That's the same sliver of time that separated Edmonton's Marco Arop from the top of the podium in the men's 800m on the track later in the day on Saturday.

"It's a huge accomplishment," Arop said about his silver medal. "First, making the Olympic final — that was the one thing we wanted to accomplish this year, and we did just that. And on top of that, I was able to have my best performance of all time at this stage, so I couldn't have asked for a better race."

WATCH | Arop reflects on capturing silver:

Marco Arop reflects on capturing Olympic silver in men's 800m at Paris 2024

Medal favourites Damian Warner (decathlon) and Sarah Mitton (shot put) saw their dreams slip away — Warner when he no-heighted on the pole vault, and Mitton by fouling out on a rainy day inside the Stade de France.

All three of Canada's basketball teams felt the sting of defeat, leaving France without a medal despite high hopes.

• Canada's 3x3 basketball women will remember hard-fought journey more than Olympic medal miss
• One way Canada Basketball can avoid more Olympic disappointment? Focus on the grassroots

Many counted the Canadians out after the scandal resulted in a six-point penalty by FIFA. They came back to defeat New Zealand, then rallied again to beat France in front of a home crowd.

"We're not cheaters," Canadian defender Vanessa Gilles said through tears after the France game. "We're damn good players. We're a damn good team. We're a damn good group and we proved that today."

The Canadians completed a perfect group stage by beating Colombia 1-0. But the magic ran out against Germany.

"I want them to remember this group of players for never backing down," veteran Janine Beckie said after the loss. "It would have been really easy for us to throw the towel in, in the first game. But we didn't."

Return of the Olympic spirit

It all played out in front of thousands of fans. After two Olympic Games with COVID restrictions, including no fans in the stands, athletes got to draw energy from the roar of crowds — and to celebrate with their friends and family.

Organizers promised these Games would be a party and a spectacle, and it certainly lived up to that promise.

There's no better example of that than Canadians Melissa Humana-Paredes and Brandie Wilkerson going for beach volleyball gold under the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower in front of more than 11,000 fans.

WATCH | Primetime panel catches up with Humana-Paredes and Wilkerson after earning silver:

Primetime panel catches up with silver medallists Wilkerson and Humana-Paredes

The duo ultimately earned silver, the country's best result in the sport, and became the first Canadian women to earn medals in beach volleyball. They did it by battling back from the lucky loser round, never wanting to give up.

"It's been a big team effort and great to finally have something reflect the amount of work that's been put in, no matter the medal and the material results," Wilkerson said. "We have a piece of history that lasts forever."

Next up in Paris is the Paralympic Games , which run from Aug. 28 to Sept. 8. More than 4,000 athletes will take centre stage in 23 different sports.

A big stage in 2028

• From far-off dream to reality: How Katie Vincent became an Olympic champion
• Why a 4th-place finish in 10,000m meant as much to Moh Ahmed as 'most Olympic medals'

Canadian Olympic Committee CEO David Shoemaker believes there's even more podium potential in 2028.

But he used his organization's closing press conference on Sunday to call for more support for national sport organizations from the federal government.

"We think that if the Government of Canada invests in national sports organizations, in providing safe, barrier-free and inclusive sport environments for all Canadians for the long term, we can achieve that potential," Shoemaker said.

De Grasse has said he'd like to compete in another Olympics, and there's plenty of talent coming behind him on the track, including Audrey Leduc and Christopher Morales Williams.

WATCH | For the family: Morales Williams' journey to the Olympics:

For the Family: Christopher Morales Williams' journey to the Olympics

Katzberg plans to be back, too.

"I want to go out and do right by Canada and just be the best I can be," he told CBC News Network's Heather Hiscox on Sunday.

McIntosh will have a chance to create more history under the bright lights of SoFi Stadium, the NFL arena slated to host swimming events in 2028.

She said she plans to approach her next Olympics the same as she did in 2024. Even though it'll be her third Games, she plans to relish it like her first.

"Now having more experience, I think it'll be even better," McIntosh said.

"We've got some time, but definitely going to just keep working hard and keep doing what I'm doing, and hopefully I can reach some pretty special things there."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Karissa Donkin is a journalist in CBC's Atlantic investigative unit. You can reach her at [email protected].

Related Stories

• With golden relay, Andre De Grasse produced 1 more clutch moment in career full of them
• Aaron Brown, the heart and soul of Canadian sprinting, gets his golden moment
• Canada's Marco Arop earns silver in men's 800m, misses Olympic gold by 1-100th of a second

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Fact-Checking Claims About Tim Walz’s Record

Republicans have leveled inaccurate or misleading attacks on Mr. Walz’s response to protests in the summer of 2020, his positions on immigration and his role in the redesign of Minnesota’s flag.

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By Linda Qiu

Since Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota was announced as the Democratic nominee for vice president, the Trump campaign and its allies have gone on the attack.

Mr. Walz, a former teacher and football coach from Nebraska who served in the National Guard, was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006 and then as Minnesota’s governor in 2018. His branding of former President Donald J. Trump as “weird” this year caught on among Democrats and helped catapult him into the national spotlight and to the top of Vice President Kamala Harris’s list of potential running mates.

The Republican accusations, which include questions over his military service , seem intended at undercutting a re-energized campaign after President Biden stepped aside and Ms. Harris emerged as his replacement at the top of the ticket. Mr. Trump and his allies have criticized, sometimes inaccurately, Mr. Walz’s handling of protests in his state, his immigration policies, his comments about a ladder factory and the redesign of his state’s flag.

Here’s a fact check of some claims.

What Was Said

“Because if we remember the rioting in the summer of 2020, Tim Walz was the guy who let rioters burn down Minneapolis.” — Senator JD Vance of Ohio, the Republican nominee for vice president, during a rally on Wednesday in Philadelphia

This is exaggerated. Mr. Walz has faced criticism for not quickly activating the National Guard to quell civil unrest in Minneapolis in the summer of 2020 after the murder of George Floyd by a police officer. But claims that he did not respond at all, or that the city burned down, are hyperbolic.

Mr. Floyd was murdered on May 25, 2020, and demonstrators took to the streets the next day . The protests intensified, with some vandalizing vehicles and setting fires. More than 700 state troopers and officers with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ mobile response team were deployed on May 26 to help the city’s police officers, according to a 2022 independent assessment by the state’s Department of Public Safety of the response to the unrest.

But the report noted that issues with communication delayed the deployment of the state National Guard.

The mayor, Jacob Frey, asked Mr. Walz to activate the National Guard the night of May 27. An aide to Mr. Frey texted a colleague around 8 p.m. that Mr. Walz was “hesitating,” documents obtained by the local news media show . The Trump campaign cited these records as evidence of Mr. Walz’s refusal to act.

Mr. Walz has argued that he did not believe Mr. Frey “knew what he was asking for,” and that the mayor did not specify the number of troops, their mission or their abilities.

The city’s police department submitted a written request the night of May 27 for 600 guardsmen. State officials said that the request was not specific enough and that they were waiting for more detail before approving the request, but that city officials were not aware that more detail was needed, according to the 2022 report.

Mr. Frey sent a formal request for troops the morning of May 28, and Mr. Walz activated the National Guard shortly afterward — two days after protests had begun. The Guard tweeted at about 4 p.m. local time that it was ready to respond to the governor’s request.

By that time, one of the city’s police precincts had already been damaged by fire. The Trump campaign also noted that a police officer testified in 2020 that she had heard “thirdhand” that Mr. Walz had said to “give up the precinct”; at the time, a spokesman for Mr. Walz disputed that characterization.

It is also worth noting that Mr. Trump, in a June 2020 phone call with governors, praised Mr. Walz’s response: “Tim Walz. Again, I was very happy with the last couple of days, Tim. You called up big numbers and the big numbers knocked them out so fast.”

“I know him a little bit. I helped him during the riots because his house was surrounded by people that were waving an American flag — doesn’t sound like very bad people. He called me and he was very concerned, very, very concerned that it was going to get out of control. They only had one guard, I guess, it was at the mansion or his house in some form. And he called me. And I said what do you want me to do about it? I was in the White House. He said if you would put out the word that I’m a good person. And I did. I put out the word.” — Mr. Trump in an interview on Fox News on Wednesday

This is misleading. Mr. Trump’s version of events is wrong on several details, and Mr. Walz’s own account noticeably differs.

On April 17, 2020 — more than a month before George Floyd’s murder — hundreds of demonstrators gathered in front of Mr. Walz’s residence to protest a stay-at-home order the governor had imposed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

That morning, Mr. Trump had written on social media, “LIBERATE MINNESOTA!,” along with calls to “liberate” other states under lockdown orders.

That day, Mr. Walz said he had tried unsuccessfully to call Mr. Trump and Vice President Mike Pence to ask “what they think we could have done differently” to respond to the spread of the virus.

Three days later, on April 20, Mr. Trump wrote that he had received a “very nice call” from Mr. Walz and that “good things are happening.”

In a news conference that day, Mr. Walz said that he had a “very good and long conversation” with Mr. Trump on April 18 — after the protesters had left — about the need for more personal protective equipment and testing abilities.

In an interview with Politico in September 2021 published this week, Mr. Walz said that Mr. Trump’s tweet had “brought armed people to my house” and that Mr. Trump had never responded when he asked what “liberate Minnesota” meant.

“Tim Walz went on TV to talk about trying to help illegal aliens climb over the border wall. Tim Walz championed government-issued IDs, driver’s licenses for illegal aliens, which results in countless motorists being killed each and every year. Tim Walz championed free health care for illegal aliens, which will bankrupt America.” — Stephen Miller, a former Trump administration official, in an interview on Fox News on Tuesday

This is exaggerated. Mr. Miller distorted comments Mr. Walz made regarding a border wall. He is correct that Mr. Walz signed legislation allowing unauthorized immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses and giving them publicly subsidized health care coverage through a state program for low-income individuals. But while Mr. Walz championed eligibility expansion, it is unclear whether he supported the health care expansion.

In 2023, Mr. Walz signed legislation expanding driver’s license eligibility to all residents of the state, regardless of immigration status. In a news release , he said he was a “longtime supporter of the bill” and expressed pride at the measure, saying it would make roads safer.

That May, Mr. Walz also signed a budget deal into law that, among other provisions, allowed unauthorized immigrants to enroll in MinnesotaCare , the state’s program for low-income residents. Mr. Walz’s budget had proposed expanding eligibility only to undocumented immigrants under 19, and a local publication reported that he opposed allowing undocumented adults to also have access to the program. His news release at the time did not mention the expansion. Additionally, MinnesotaCare provides subsidized, but not always free insurance. The health care program is funded in part by the state, and the expansion, backed by state money , would not dip into federal coffers and “bankrupt” the country.

Mr. Miller’s comment about Mr. Walz helping immigrants “climb over the border wall” distorts Mr. Walz’s remarks. In an interview last week on CNN , Mr. Walz said that the “United States needs to control its border” but argued that Mr. Trump was “not interested in solving the problem.”

“I always say, let me know how high it is,” he said, wryly expressing the ineffectiveness of a border wall. “If it’s 25 feet, then I’ll invest in the 30-foot ladder factory. That’s not how you stop this.”

He continued, “You stop this using electronics, you stop it using more border control agents, and you stop it by having a legal system that allows for that tradition of allowing folks to come here, just like my relatives did to come here, be able to work and establish the American dream. He’s not interested in that. He wants to demonize.”

“Don’t forget he tried to redesign the Minnesota state flag to look like the Somali national flag. You just can’t get further out there in America.” — Representative Andy Biggs, Republican of Arizona, in an interview on a right-wing streaming platform on Wednesday

False. Minnesota adopted a new flag on May 11, after a monthslong redesign effort and thousands of public submissions. Mr. Walz had little to do with the design, which pays tribute to various facets of the state — not Somalia.

Prompted by criticism that the state’s old flag was offensive to Native Americans and bore too many similarities to other state flags, Minnesota legislators passed a measure in 2023 establishing a commission to redesign the state’s emblems. Mr. Walz signed that legislation into law. The commission received more than 2,000 submissions from the public through October 2023 and decided on a design in December.

The commission — not Mr. Walz — chose and modified a design by Andrew Prekker of Luverne, Minn. Mr. Prekker, who does part-time work in graphic design, said in an interview on local news that he had researched his concept and tried to create imagery that “represented everyone” in the state. Mr. Prekker told PolitiFact that his flag had nothing to do with Somalia.

The new flag has a white eight-point star (representing the North Star, which is the state’s motto, and the many cultures of the state) splashed on a dark blue background (representing the night sky and the shape of the state) on the left and a bright blue field on the right (representing the state’s 11,000 lakes and 6,000 rivers and streams), according to the commission’s final report.

The flag of Somalia features a white five-pointed star on a blue field.

An earlier version of this article misidentified a Minnesota agency that deployed a mobile response team to help quell unrest in Minneapolis after the murder of George Floyd by a police officer. It was the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, not the Department of National Resources.

An earlier version of this article misstated the damage to one of Minneapolis’s police precincts. It was damaged by fire but not burned to the ground.

How we handle corrections

Linda Qiu is a reporter who specializes in fact-checking statements made by politicians and public figures. She has been reporting and fact-checking public figures for nearly a decade. More about Linda Qiu

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

United States travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: August 7, 2024 15:50 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, united states - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in the United States.

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Border with Mexico

Criminal incidents associated with drug trafficking are more frequent at the border with Mexico, in the following states:

If crossing the U.S.– Mexico border by car:

• remain extremely vigilant
• only use officially recognized border crossings
• avoid travelling at night

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, particularly in urban centres and tourist locations.

• Don’t leave bags or valuables unattended in parked cars, especially rental vehicles, even in trunks
• Ensure that your belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times

Violent crime

Within large urban areas, violent crime more commonly occurs in poor neighbourhoods, particularly from dusk to dawn. It often involves intoxication.  Incidents of violent crime are mainly carried out by gangs or members of organized crime groups but may also be perpetrated by lone individuals. Although violent crime rarely affects tourists:

• be mindful of your surroundings at all time
• verify official neighbourhood crime statistics before planning an outing
• if threatened by robbers, stay calm and don’t resist

Crime Data Explorer – Federal Bureau of Investigation

Gun violence

The rate of firearm possession in the US is high. It’s legal in many states for US citizens to openly carry firearms in public.

Incidences of mass shootings occur, resulting most often in casualties. Although tourists are rarely involved, there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. 

Familiarize yourself on how to respond to an active shooter situation.

Active Shooter Event Quick Reference Guide - Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency

Home break-ins

Canadians living in holiday homes have been the victims of break-ins and burglary.

Make sure you lock windows and doors securely at night and when you are away.

Common criminal strategies

Be on alert for robbery ploys targeting visitors.

Some criminals on highways target travellers leaving airports or other tourist destinations. They signal tourists to stop due to an issue with their vehicle. They then wait for the driver to pull over or exit the car before grabbing exposed valuables. Criminals may also throw items at the windshield, obscuring the view of the road and forcing the driver to pull over. 

If you’re the victim of such a ploy:

• avoid pulling over on the side of the road
• put on your hazard lights and slowly drive to a gas station, police station or other safe and populated area

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs, including debit card cloning. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, and hotels 

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) maintains a public alert system on terrorism to communicate information about terrorist threats.

National Terrorism Advisory System  – U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Hiking and mountaineering

If you intend on hiking, backpacking or skiing:

• never practise these activities alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• obtain detailed information on hiking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails or slopes
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you are properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the US authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

You must provide proof of your Canadian citizenship upon entry to the U.S. There are several documents that can satisfy this requirement.

Travel by air

Canadian citizens travelling by air to the United States must present one of the following documents:

• a passport, which must be valid for the duration of their stay
• a valid NEXUS card, used at self-serve kiosks at designated airports

This requirement applies to all Canadian citizens, including children, travelling by air to or even just transiting through the United States.

Useful links

• Canadian passports
• Mobile Passport Control app – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Travel by land or water

As per the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), Canadian citizens aged 16 years and older must present one of the following documents when entering the United States by land or water:

• a valid passport
• a Trusted Traveler Program card
• an enhanced driver’s licence (EDL) or enhanced identification card (EIC) from a province or territory where a U.S. approved EDL/EIC program has been implemented
• a Secure Certificate of Indian Status

The WHTI-compliant document you choose to use must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Canadian citizens aged 15 years and under entering the United States by land or water require one of the following documents:

• an original or a copy of a birth certificate
• an original Canadian citizenship certificate
• Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI ) – U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Trusted Traveler Programs  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Enhanced Driver’s Licenses: What Are They?  – U.S. Department of Homeland Security
• Apply for a Secure Certificate of Indian Status  – Indigenous Services Canada

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.

• Foreign representatives in Canada

Additional information at borders

Customs officials may ask you to provide your address while in the United States (including Puerto Rico). Customs Border Protection (CBP) officers may also ask for:

• evidence of residential, employment or educational ties to Canada
• proof that the trip is for a legitimate purpose and is of a reasonable length
• proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay     
• Dual citizens

Although U.S. authorities don’t formally require dual nationals to carry both a U.S. and a Canadian passport, carrying both documents as proof of citizenship may facilitate your entry into the United States and your return to Canada.

• Travelling as a dual citizen
• Dual Nationality  – U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs

Canadian visitors can usually stay in the United States for 6 months without a visa. You must declare your intended duration of stay upon entry into the United States.

In most circumstances, Canadian citizens don’t require visitor, business, transit or other visas to enter the United States from Canada but there are some exceptions.

Canadians Requiring Visas  – U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada

Canadian permanent residents

Canadian permanent residents may need a non-immigrant visa to enter the United States.

You must obtain this visa from the U.S. authorities before entering the country. You must also have a valid passport from your country of citizenship.

Cross U.S. Borders – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Visa Waiver Program

If you are a citizen of a country that is part of the visa waiver program (VWP), you don’t need a visa to enter the U.S. for stays up to 90 days. Instead, you must obtain pre-travel authorization via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior your departure.

• Visa Waiver Program  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)  – U.S. Department of Homeland Security

You must also carry proof of Permanent Resident Status in Canada upon re-entry into Canada.

U.S. permanent residents

Canadians who are permanent residents of the United States must present a valid U.S. permanent resident card upon entry.

International travel as a U.S. Permanent Resident  – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

First Nations and Native Americans born in Canada

Members of Canada’s First Nations and Native Americans born in Canada may freely enter the United States for the purposes of employment, study, retirement, investing, or immigration.

• Entry and exit for First Nations and Native Americans  – U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada
• Green Card for an American Indian Born in Canada – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Working in the United States

Most Canadian business travellers may apply for admission at a U.S. port of entry without first obtaining a non-immigrant visa. However, travellers entering the United States in certain business-related categories are required to present specific documents to establish eligibility for admission.

If you plan to work in the United States, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Studying in the United States

Canadian citizens don’t need visas to study or participate in a student exchange program in the United States. However, they need to be registered with SEVIS, a U.S. student tracking system. Students must present their registration form to CBP officers each time they enter the United States.

• SEVIS – U.S. Department of Homeland Security
• Canadian students  – U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada

Length of stay

If you wish to stay longer than 6 months, you must apply for an extension at the nearest U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office once you are in the United States and before the expiry of your initial authorized stay. Immigration officers may ask you to demonstrate that you are a temporary visitor in the United States.

The U.S. government strictly enforces immigration regulations. Remaining in the United States beyond your authorized period of stay can result in serious consequences such as detention or deportation.

There is no set period that you must wait to re-enter the United States after the end of your authorized stay. However, if a CBP officer suspects you are spending more time in the United States than in Canada, it will be up to you to prove to the officer that you are a temporary visitor, not a U.S. resident.

Extend your stay  –  U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Upon entry into the United States, non-U.S. citizens must provide biometrics, such as digital fingerprints and a photograph.

Most Canadian citizens are exempt from this requirement. However, it will apply to Canadian citizens who:

• need a visa or a waiver of ineligibility
• must obtain an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record form to document dates of entry and exit from the country

Random screenings of exempt Canadians have occurred at border crossings and airports. If you feel that your information has been wrongfully collected, you can address the issue directly with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

• Biometrics  – U.S. Department of Homeland Security
• Arrival/Departure Forms: I-94 and I-94W – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Electronic devices

U.S. border agents are entitled to search your electronic devices, such as your phones, computers or tablets, when you are entering the United States. They don’t need to provide a reason when requesting a password to open your device.

If you refuse, they may seize your device. The border agent could also delay your travel or deny entry if you are not a U.S. citizen.

Before crossing the border, put your device in airplane mode to ensure remote files don’t get downloaded accidentally.

Inspection of Electronic Devices  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Preclearance

The preclearance service provides clearance for entry into the United States for persons and their luggage at a Canadian preclearance airport before departure instead of on arrival in the United States.

When using U.S. preclearance facilities at a Canadian airport, you must meet U.S. entry requirements. You will be interviewed by a U.S. preclearance officer. They are authorized to inspect your luggage and can refuse you entry into the United States.

It’s an offence under Canada’s Preclearance Act to knowingly make a false or deceptive statement to a preclearance officer.  While you are in a preclearance area, you are subject to Canadian law, including:

• the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
• the Canadian Bill of Rights
• the Canadian Human Rights Act
• Canada’s Preclearance Act
• Canadian criminal law

You may withdraw your request to enter the United States and leave the preclearance area at any time unless a U.S. preclearance officer suspects on reasonable grounds that you have made a false or deceptive statement or obstructed an officer. The officer may then detain you for violations of Canadian law.

Preclearance Locations  –  U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Criminal Record

If you have a criminal record, no matter the severity or the date of the offence, you may be refused entry to the United States. You may also experience problems when travelling through U.S. airport facilities. A pardon for an offence issued by Canadian authorities is not recognized under U.S. law to enter the United States.

If you are ineligible to enter the United States, you may apply directly to U.S. Customs and Border Protection for a temporary waiver of inadmissibility via the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Canadian citizens may also apply at land borders.

U.S. ports of entry are computerized and connected to a centralized database. Information is readily available on criminal convictions in both Canada and the United States. Even though you may have entered the United States without hindrance in the past, you could run into difficulty if your record shows a criminal conviction or a previous denial of entry. Attempting to gain entry without a waiver could result in several weeks of detention and a permanent ban from entering the United States.

• Applying for Waiver  – Person entering into the United States with criminal record or overstay – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Previous use of cannabis, or any substance prohibited by U.S. federal laws, could mean that you are denied entry to the U.S. If you attempt to enter the U.S. for reasons related to the cannabis industry, you may be deemed inadmissible.

• Cannabis and international travel
• Cannabis and the U.S. – U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Canada
• Laws pertaining to cannabis

Boating in U.S. waters

Operators of small pleasure vessels arriving in the United States from a foreign port must report their arrival to U.S. Customs and Border Protection immediately for face-to-face inspection at a designated reporting location.

Some exceptions apply, including under Nexus Marine.

Pleasure Boat Reporting Requirements  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

You must have a valid Canadian passport to take a cruise from the United States. Some of the countries you visit will not permit entry without a passport. A passport is also important to re-enter the United States at the end of the cruise.

Ship authorities might retain your passport during the cruise, in accordance with their own administrative regulations and to facilitate clearance with U.S. Immigration.

If your passport is kept:

• obtain a receipt
• ensure you recuperate your passport at the end of the cruise
• always keep a photocopy of your passport with you

Pets must appear healthy when examined at a port of entry. If there is evidence of poor animal health, your pet may be subject to examination and/or testing at your expense or may be denied entry.

Pets may also need to meet additional requirements, such as having:

• an import permit
• an export certificate or health certificate
• proof of vaccination (for example, rabies vaccination)

Animals may be subject to quarantine requirements.

• Dogs travelling to the United States
• Bringing a Dog into the U.S.  – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Bring a Pet From Another Country into the United States (Import) – United States Department of Agriculture
• Bringing Pets and Wildlife into the United States  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Children and travel

Canadian citizens under 19 travelling with a school or other organized group under adult supervision must travel with written consent from their own parent/guardian.

• Children: Traveling into the U.S. as Canadian Citizen  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Consent letter for travel with children
• Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Zika virus may be a risk in some areas of the United States. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s webpage Areas at Risk for Zika  for the most up-to-date information on Zika risk in the United States.

During your trip to a Zika risk area:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to areas where Zika is a risk with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel to these areas.

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy .

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions webpage on Dengue in the U.S. States and Territories for the most up-to-date information on dengue outbreaks in the United States
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent. Service is available throughout the country. However, treatment costs are expensive.

All hospitals must accept and treat emergencies, regardless of the person’s ability to pay. Clients will, however, be charged for all services rendered. Foreign visitors without travel health insurance will have to pay out of pocket for their medical treatment.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

There are restrictions and prohibitions on the import of certain prescription drugs into the United States.

Some medication that can be purchased over-the-counter in Canada is restricted to prescription-only status in the United States.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication
• Ensure to have a physician’s note explaining your medical condition, if applicable

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Laws vary greatly from state to state. Consult the website of the state you wish to visit prior to arrival.

Penalties and transfer of offenders

A serious violation of the law may lead to a jail sentence or, in some states, a death sentence. Canadian citizenship confers no immunity, special protection or rights to preferential treatment.

If a jail sentence is imposed, it will be served in a U.S. prison, unless a request for a transfer to a Canadian prison is approved by the United States and Canada. Both countries have signed a treaty that permits a Canadian imprisoned in the United States to request a transfer to complete the sentence in a Canadian prison.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Although the possession of cannabis is legal in some U.S. states, it remains illegal under U.S. federal laws in any form and quantity, making it illegal to bring across the Canada-U.S. border.

Don’t attempt to cross the Canada-U.S. border with any amount of cannabis in any form, even if you are traveling to a U.S. state that has legalized possession of cannabis. If you do so, you can expect legal prosecution and fines, and possibly jail time.

• Entry/exit requirements pertaining to cannabis

Prescription medication

Personal medication may be subject to U.S. drug importation laws and regulations.

In general, personal importation of a 90-day supply of medication is allowed. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has absolute discretion to allow or not your Canadian-purchased medication into the United States.

When taking any prescription medication to the United States, it’s important to:

• take only the quantity that you would normally take for the number of days you will be in the United States, plus an additional week’s worth
• pack medicines in their original packaging with the dispensary label intact that shows your name and other pertinent information such as the drug’s name, dosage and DIN (drug identification number)
• keep a duplicate of your original prescription, listing both the generic and trade names of the drug
• have a physician’s note explaining your condition and the reason for you to be legitimately carrying syringes, if applicable

Prohibited and restricted items  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Some states have enacted laws and policies that may affect 2SLGBTQI+ persons. Check relevant state and local laws.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the United States .

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the United States , our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and the United States.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the United States, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the American court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in the United States to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Expedited removal

U.S. Customs and Border Protection can bar non-citizens from the United States for five years if, in their judgment, the individuals presented false documentation or misrepresented themselves. Lying to a customs official is a serious offence.

There is no formal appeal process under expedited removal. However, if you believe the law has been misapplied in your case, you can request a supervisory review by writing to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services district director responsible for the port of entry where the decision was made.

Find a USCIS office  – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Imports and exports

Contact the specific U.S. Customs and Border Protection office at the Canada/U.S. border crossing you are planning to use before starting your trip for the latest information on allowances and restrictions on bringing items into the United States. These change frequently.

Declare all items at your point of entry.

Contact information for USCBP  – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Travel to Cuba from the United States

Existing U.S. sanctions restrict travel between the United States and Cuba. Tourists may not travel between the two countries. However, you may go to Cuba from the United States on other types of travel, if you meet certain requirements.

Cuba sanctions  – U.S. Department of the Treasury

You can drive in the United States if you have a valid Canadian driver’s license.

Traffic laws can vary from state to state.

Automobile insurance

Many states have mandatory automobile insurance requirements, and many require motorists to carry appropriate proof of insurance. Each state’s motor vehicles department can give you more specific information.

If you are in the United States and wish to drive to Mexico in your personal vehicle, you may need to purchase liability insurance and additional auto insurance.

• Foreign Nationals Driving in the U.S.  – U.S. government
• States’ motor vehicle department  – U.S. government
• Canadian Automobile Association
• American Automobile Association
• Road safety risks when travelling by land to Mexico
• Travel advice for Mexico

Hitchhiking

Never cross the border with a hitchhiker or as a hitchhiker. Though you may not be carrying anything illegal, the hitchhiker or driver might be, and you could be implicated.

Be equally careful about who and what you carry in your vehicle. As the driver, you could be held responsible for the misdeeds and belongings of your passengers, even if you were unaware of the problem.

The currency in the United States is the U.S. dollar (USD).

Canadian currency and personal cheques from Canadian banks are not widely accepted. Most banking transactions require a U.S. bank account.

There’s no limit to the amount of money that you may legally take into or out of the United States. However, you must declare to U.S. Customs and Border Protection:

• if you carry more than US$10,000 (in cash, cheque, money order,      travellers’ cheque or any other convertible asset) into or out of the      United States
• if you will receive more than US$10,000 while in the United States

Failure to comply can result in civil and criminal penalties, including seizure of the currency or monetary instruments.

Natural disasters can occur at any time.

Plan Ahead for Disasters  – U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Tropical storm Debby

On August 5, 2024, tropical storm Debby made landfall as a category 1 hurricane, in the Big Bend region in Florida, near Steinhatchee.

Tropical storm Debby continues to bring heavy rainfall and violent winds.

Major flooding is expected. There are reports of significant disruptions to the following essential services:

• transportation, including operations at airports
• power distribution
• water and food supply
• telecommunications networks
• emergency services
• medical care

If you are in the Florida Gulf Coast:

• exercise caution
• monitor local news and weather reports
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Latest advisories  – U.S. National Hurricane Centre

Hurricanes usually occur from:

• May to November in the eastern Pacific Ocean, including Hawaii and Guam
• June to November in the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to these regions during the hurricane season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad
• Latest advisories  – U.S. National Hurricane Center
• US National Weather Service

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

• Stay away from flooded areas
• Follow the advice of local authorities
• Monitor local news to stay up-to-date on the current situation

Earthquakes

Earthquakes pose a risk in the following states:

• Washington State

If you're in an area prone to earthquakes, familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.

• Earthquake – Get prepared
• Earthquakes  – Federal Emergency Management

Heat and humidity

Humidity and heat may be most severe during the hot season, from June to September, particularly in the South and South-West of the country.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

• Sun and heat safety tips for travellers  – Government of Canada
• Heat & Health Tracker  – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Bush and forest fires

Bush and forest fires are common and a risk across much of the United States, particularly during the summer months.

Wildfires can occur year-round but they are most common during periods of low rainfall and high temperatures.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke. In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• always follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel, including any evacuation order
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
• Forest fire information  – National Interagency Fire Centre
• National Wildfire Risk Index  – Federal Emergency Management Agency
• Latest wildfire information  – United States National Wildfire Coordinating Group
• Map of wildfires  – Fire weather & Avalanche Center
• California forest fires  – California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection

Tornadoes pose a risk across much of the United States, particularly in central, mid-west and southern states. Tornadoes may occur with little warning.

• Monitor local news and weather reports

Useful links:

• National tornado risk index  – Federal Emergency Management Agency
• U.S. National Weather Service

There are several active volcanoes in the United States.

In the event of a volcanic eruption, ash could lead to air travel disruptions. The air quality may deteriorate and affect you, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments.

• Monitor local media for the latest updates
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation order
• Be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice
• Volcanic eruptions  – U.S. National Park Service
• Vog  – Government of Hawaii

The state of Hawaii is prone to tsunamis. A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor.

If you're staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region's evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

Tsunami Evacuation Zones  – Government of Hawaii

Local services

Dial 911 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia.

Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee.

Illinois, Indiana (Jasper, Lake, Laporte, Newton, and Porter counties), Kansas City, Kansas, Missouri, Wisconsin.

Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Utah, Wyoming.

Indiana (excluding Jasper, Lake, LaPorte, Newton and Porter counties), Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio.

Arizona, Nevada, Southern California

Florida, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands

Bermuda, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York State and Pennsylvania.

Northern California, Hawaii.

Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to the United States, in Washington, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

You may call the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa toll-free at 1-888-949-9993.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.