Crossing the Canadian Border Post-COVID-19

If you plan on visiting Canada this year by driving across the border, don’t assume you can simply stroll up to it and get across. While the country has lessened its quarantine and COVID-19 testing restrictions for international visitors, there are still some steps you’ll need to take to ensure a quick and easy border crossing.

As of this year, all travelers entering Canada are required to download and use the ArriveCAN app. Registering you and all your fellow travelers’ information on this app is free and necessary for crossing the border from the United States. Download it to your phone and enter your information.

The app will ask about things like vaccine status, length of stay, destination, home address and other details. It will also ask you to upload a photo of your vaccine card, as well as a photo of your passport. You will also need to add additional info for a quarantine plan, just in case you’re asked to quarantine.

After submitting your information, you’ll be issued a receipt in the app. You’ll want to keep a screenshot of this receipt handy, as you may be asked to present it at the border, along with your proof of COVID-19 vaccination and your passport.

Technically, you’re asked to submit your information on the app about 72 hours before arrival, but that’s not a hard and fast rule.