We keep hearing about extensions of the US-Canada border closures. Another extension has been announced, this time through July 21st.
In this article
Is the US Border With Canada Really Closed?
Well, yes and no.
The land border crossing (meaning cars, ferries, and commuter trains) is closed to all non-essential travel. Healthcare workers and truckers are among those that can still cross.
On the air side, Canada won’t let people in from the US. That’s still the case and will remain the case through at least July 21st. Exceptions are, again, essential workers and those with a spouse in Canada.
You CAN Fly From Canada to the US!
If you are Canadian, the US will still permit you entry via plane – but only if you have not been to Brazil, China, Iran, Ireland, the U.K. or any of the 26 Schengen Area EU countries within 14 days prior to arrival.
If you read the FAQ on the website of the US Embassy in Canada on the section of restricted leisure travel, you’ll notice this:
Q: What will this mean for airline travel and other travel across the border?
A: This action does not apply to air, rail, or sea travel at this time, but does apply to commuter rail and ferry travel.
Still not convinced?
Here’s an article from CBC Canada describing the same.
Again, if you are an American, this does NOT apply to entering Canada by air. Only Canadians can enter the US by air. No, I don’t know why…
But if you have a Canadian significant other and haven’t been able to see each other because you aren’t married, this may be your lifeline.
Air Canada and other airlines are already operating transborder flights.
As well, I would expect this is still causing confusion with airline agents, who don’t tend to be up on all the latest rules…
Have you flown from Canada to the US since the land border closed? Have you had any issues?
Let me know here, on Twitter, or in the private MilesTalk Facebook group.
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