Canadians Flying To The US Will Need To Take At Least 2 COVID-19 Tests For The Trip

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NARCITY/Taking a trip across the border just got a little more complicated. The U.S.’ travel rules have been updated and all incoming passengers will soon be required to show a negative COVID-19 test prior to boarding.

In a statement on January 12, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that current travel requirements are set to be expanded to include incoming travellers from all countries, including Canada.

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Testing before and after travel is a critical layer to slow the introduction and spread of COVID-19.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

This means people arriving in the United States will have to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result before being allowed to board a flight.

The order is set to take effect on January 26 and will require all passengers arriving by air to get a test within three days of their departure.

According to the CDC, the purpose is to “slow the spread of the virus as we work to vaccinate the American public.” The statement acknowledges that the country is already in “surge status.”

Because the same rules apply in Canada, anybody making a return-trip across the border via plane will soon have to take at least two tests during their journey.

The CDC also recommends taking yet another COVID-19 test 3-5 days after arrival in the States.

The Canada-U.S. border remains closed to all non-essential travel until February 21, 2021.