The Government of Canada has extended its COVID-19-related land border crossing restrictions, which affect truckers transporting freight across the US-Canada land border, until at least Sept. 30.

To cross at a land border, travellers will still have to show proof of vaccine. Without proof of vaccine, they will be required to quarantine for up to 14 days.

“As we move into the next phase of our COVID-19 response, it is important to remember that the pandemic is not over,” said Minister of Health Jean-Yves Duclos. “We must continue to do all that we can to keep ourselves and others safe from the virus. It is also important for individuals to remain up to date with the recommended vaccinations to ensure they are adequately protected against infection, transmission, and severe complications. As we have said all along, Canada’s border measures will remain flexible and adaptable, guided by science and prudence.”

In June, the Canadian government paused its mandatory vaccination requirements for federally-regulated air, rail, and marine transportation sectors. But for land travellers, and those transporting goods by land, the existing border requirements will remain in effect for now.

To qualify as a fully-vaccinated traveller, you must:

• Have received at least two doses of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine.
• Have received a second dose at least 14 days before entering Canada.
• Have no signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
• Have used the ArriveCAN app or website to upload proof of vaccination 72 hours before arriving in Canada, and be able to show the corresponding ArriveCAN receipt.

You can read the complete list of requirements here.

Pre-entry COVID testing is not required, however travellers may be randomly selected for testing on arrival, and testing remains “an important tool in Canada’s detection and surveillance of COVID-19” that has been essential in helping slow the spread of the virus, the Government of Canada stated in a press release.

“The health and safety of Canadians is our government’s top priority,” said Marco E. L. Mendicino, Minister of Public Safety. “At the same time, we will continue to add resources to ensure that travel and trade can keep moving.”

The announcement is certainly challenging for a supply chain that’s already under severe strain. But with the country experiencing another COVID-19 wave due to the spread of the new BA.5 variant, it’s just as important as ever to follow public health measures and adapt as best we can.

To stay informed on border crossing requirements and other important updates, stay connected with a customs broker.