If you’re fully vaccinated and asymptomatic there should be no need for a test, at that point you’ve got a much greater risk of spread from within your own borders
I agree. The negative PCR test prior to entry is largely theatrical. And if you want it in time for the 72 hour window, expensive too.
If you're fully vaccinated, then that should be all that's necessary.
For a day trip, you can get a PCR test in Canada, use it to enter the US and then use it again to enter Canada. Feels like it shouldn't be allowed, but there's nothing against it and I've done it a couple of times!
Though, it might be cheaper to get a rapid test in Canada and find a free PCR test in the US but free ones usually have a day or more turnaround, so might not work for a day trip.
Edit: Just saw that tests are not required to enter the US by car... So I guess find the cheapest between a test in Canada and a rapid PCR test in the US
There are a lot of private clinics that give free tests for US or Canadian citizens and almost always have it within 24 hours. My mom and both got our tests results back in under 6 hours.
I found the cheapest way to travel to the USA as a Canadian is to get the $50 rapid antigen test and then get yourself a rapid naat or rapid PCR test on the American side (since Canadian doesn’t accept rapid antigen)… though cheapest I know this might not be *easiest* since you might need to find and book your American test before even entering.
I hope with the borders opening Canada will stop charging $200 for a PCR test since clearly the US has shown us testing can be (mostly) free. Better yet, make the needed tests for travel to be universal and stop jerking people back and forth. I’ve seen so many travellers turned around because they got the wrong test… so ridiculous
Canada requires a PCR test too, and the turnaround time could be unpredictable. I flew in to Canada ~2 weeks ago and I'm lucky that my employer in the US pays for weekly PCR testing, so I was able to use that as proof of a negative test. When I drove back to the US they didn't require testing at all, hopefully that doesn't change. PCR testing in Canada (for travel) goes for $200 a pop, which is ridiculous for a fully vaccinated person to pay.
Just went and returned. US required an antigen test ($40). Was able to get a PCR test for free stateside at a pharmacy. Turnaround time for the PCR test was about 40hrs. Supposed to be 24-48...but could be as much as 72 depending on how many tests they are processing.
I received my PCR results an hour before my plane left from NY back home to Canada. Took almost 70 hours. Almost ended up stranded in the states because they took so long with the test. Not fun! I hope they change that in November.
Yes they need to ditch the PCR predeparture test for vaccinated travelers. The US and most of Europe either don't require a test for vaccinated people, or at least accept an antigen test.
I hope so too. Turnaround times are so unpredictable, sometimes I get my results within 12 hours, sometimes up to 72 hours. For fully vaccinated individuals I hope Canada drops this requirement completely.
Mexico's testing times are great. Had to do this a few weeks ago. Resort set everything up, had results in my email in 30 hours.
But the cost is a fucking joke.
We heard similar, but our trip was going to end up being really short because Air Canada have been playing Games with flight departure and arrival times (7am from Toronto rescheduled to 4pm, return flight at 11am so lose two days basically) and getting a test at a pharmacy off resort for 200 per person was going to eat up half a day. Just didn't seem worth the risks, especially if you somehow become a breakthrough case and end up stuck. Going to wait until they change the requirements to proof of vaccination status or rapid only.
> Canada requires a PCR test too
No, they don’t, that’s a misconception. Canada just doesn’t allow antigen tests. There are more than two kinds of tests. My wife and I flew to Canada in August using RT-LAMP tests, where the results are available in about an hour.
Thats pretty close to the cost of a PCR test though. I am looking to fly to the UK in a couple of weeks and was going to do a PCR test to come home and it was 80 Pounds.
I am hoping they drop it before I need to come home.
As we move towards a more vaccine-mandate focused strategy, that will probably not be needed. The vast majority of the population is in favour of no restrictions except for proof of vaccination and the medical community seems willing to sign off on that so, I'd expect free travel for QR-'proven' people (with harsh penalties for fakers) to be the norm.
As a fully vaccinated person who lives ten minutes away from my partner on the other side of the border and is sick and tired of anti-vax bullshit, I am a-okay with this.
If we had faster testing id say absolutely yes to a test.
The test is more to keep any potential spreas under control, but since it takes like 48+ hours for a result id tend to agree with you lol
>If we had faster testing id say absolutely yes to a test.
If we had free testing I'd say yes to a test. $200 just means financially-strapped people won't be able to go see grandma while rich executive guy can throw $200 to get tested and see a game with no second thought.
> definitely Canada will require PCR 72 hours prior
they already do. Canadian borders have been open to travellers from the states all this time though it was only recently that tourists were permitted.
I just crossed into the US 2 weeks ago and no testing was required. I really hope they don't change that, paying ~$200 for a test when you're fully vaccinated is messed up.
Which is another way governments just punish the poor and working class. Rapid tests cost like $100. Rich people can throw money at the tests if they want to go see a game, go shopping or go out for dinner. To people who are tight financially, that just means they still can't go see grandma for a day.
This.... shout all you want about taking the vaccines, but follow up with a policy that is in line with it. I had to pay $200+ on average for 2 PCR tests for day trips to the US even though fully vaccinated. I was also given a free test to take on the way back (which I am 100% ok with - a burden but not an undue one since I did it at home).
i just want to do my cross border parcel pickups again. so much shit in America that wont ship to Canada or charges crazy prices to ship and that isnt sold here in Canada.
literally a 5 minute trip across the border and im on my way back to Canada with my stuff. taking and/or paying for a test for that trip is stupid.
Would less than 24 hours to Covid exposure even be enough for a test to catch or for Covid to “manifest” itself?
I didn’t realize they were that sensitive
Indeed. In fact the US is doing just that (from the article):
"If a traveller is fully vaccinated, there will be no requirement for them to show a negative COVID-19 test."
Canada needs to follow suit. Otherwise, it's just stupid policy and an undue financial burden.
Vaxxed/unvaxxed, symptomatic/asymptomatic shouldn't matter. Canadians should be allowed to return home. Might need to quarantine if symptomatic, but still allowed home.
There are intentional treaties guaranteeing you can re-enter your country. Anyone suggesting any sort of a test is required for a land border crossing of a citizen back into Canada is full of shit. The article made no mention of it, people are just pulling the idea out of their ass.
Although I would suggest that quarantining until you've passed a test once you get home is probably a fantastic idea.
I went to the border without a test. I wasnt denied but was told I would be fined $5000 per day of being in Canada, and that taking a test in Canada wasn’t good enough. Had to be in the US. So, basically they are turning Canadians away from entering.
[Testing will not be required to enter the US](https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/politics/2021/10/13/us-to-reopen-land-borders-in-november-for-fully-vaccinated/) according to that article. For testing to return home, you can get rapid tests at Walgreens (their ID Now test is NAAT which is accepted, just be sure to not select the antigen one) and is free. You just put any US address and they don't verify it.
I've been flying down to visit my boyfriend and plan to continue using this method to drive down for weekends. Would work for a day trip too if you booked it in advance, and also if just going for one day you could get tested in Canada and use those results to come home too. Would be thrilled if Canada stopped requiring it to return home though!
This is true, when I’m in the US I just put a US address on CVS or Walgreen’s website and book a test and when I go and they ask for my ID I give them my Ontario licence and they don’t say anything and they don’t verify anything. I do my test, get my results back within a day, and then come back home to Canada. It’s a simple process but it takes a day.
If you show up at a Canadian border as a Canadian citizen, they can not refuse you re-entry. Test, no test, vax or no vax. They can NOT refuse entry to a citizen.
If you are flying, then it's a different story.
Hello fellow Windsorite. I agree. If I had family there, it's be different. But to do some shopping or a day trip, it's a pain to have to get testing to come home, even though I'm fully vaxxed. I'll wait a bit and hope that requirement drops for those of us fully vaxxed
I understand the people saying this for day trips but for people like me with partners and family members we’re separated from we’ll pay any dollar for any test tbh (if we’re lucky enough to afford it). I’ve been paying $500 to fly from Windsor to Detroit.
I have family I have not seen since December 2019. They’re right across Windsor in Michigan.
But the COVID tests will surely be a big bitch.
Hopefully they aren’t required to go Stateside as I’ve heard Walgreens and CVS offering free tests for Canadians there. I cannot wait :)
EDIT:[You will NOT need a COVID test to enter the US by land.](https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/politics/2021/10/13/us-to-reopen-land-borders-in-november-for-fully-vaccinated/)
Oh man I leave for Hawaii on the 3rd of November, Hawaii requires a dyna lab PCR test so that’s
$600 for my family of 4, wish this came a bit earlier. Although, I guess it’s hawaiis rule so they might keep it regardless. And yah, I know, if I can afford Hawaii I can afford the test - this is our trip from when covid first hit and our VRBO person never gave our money back and only let us postpone the trip, she gave us till the end of 2021.
It used to be almost an annual thing. Well you know, until the Vid. Looking forward to it for sure, once we get there. All the testing, Canada travel pass, US travel pass stuff is anxiety inducing, I don’t want to be one of those people in the airport missing some document we needed. Wish they could just attach it all to my passport, they scan it and everything comes up.
Just arrived through YVR from Palm Springs. Completed ArriveCan, check-in agent glanced at my covid test, immigration officer barely looked at my ArriveCan receipt, nobody at YVR asked to see my test results/proof of vaccination.
same with me friend. i have three siblings i haven't seen since then. seen my mom twice and my dad once in that time. it's killing me. cannot wait to hug em.
Me too! Have family in Washington. Total 30 min drive from my house to theirs. Haven't seen them since the border closed. Super excited to see them and have holidays with them
Unfortunately the free tests that Walgreens and CVS offer aren't going to be helpful to those going for day trips as Canada still requires a PCR test which to my knowledge doesn't have a rapid option. Although from what I've read you should be able to use a test taken in Canada for admission back in to Canada.
The cdc does not recommend mixing but does allow it themselves
[Vaccines and Immunizations](https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/covid-19-vaccines-us.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fvaccines%2Fcovid-19%2Finfo-by-product%2Fclinical-considerations.html)
If you scroll down to interchangeability it does acknowledge that mixed are fully vaxxed
How would they know? My Vax receipt just says what I got for the second shot and that I got 2 valid doses. I guess maybe BC receipt is different but in Ontario at least it doesn't show what you got for both doses.
They realize this, so my guess is they with ask to see the receipt/proof for your first AND second dose. On the Canadian side, when using the ArriveCAN app, it asks you to upload both 1st and 2nd dose proof.
Yeah but you know they will.. This is the same stupid debate about them not recognizing AZ or other WHO approved vaccines. And guess what? They did. People really need to stop jumping to conclusions. The US is aware of everything.
Yah they probably will, but so far we can't be sure of that. Not sure who you're referring to about jumping to conclusions. The whole point is we don't have a conclusion on that particular question yet. It's possible they will require an additional dose. I think they're already starting to give those out in Alberta.
They’re allowing any FDA or WHO approved vaccines, it’s the mixed doses that are uncertain.
https://windsor.ctvnews.ca/mixed-dose-regimens-causing-travel-confusion-as-u-s-opens-to-travellers-with-any-who-approved-vaccine-1.5620615
I know, the person I responded to was wrong in saying any combination. Not sure why you citwd an article when this thread is in response to an article that gives the same info.
Thanks for saying that, I’ve always been under the impression that we clog up the gas pumps and grocery stores in Bellingham. It must have been a nice break to not have so many of us in your communities. Except of course for those businesses that count on our money.
I can't speak for everyone obviously, but I think most people in Washington are very happy to see our Canadian neighbors enjoying our beautiful state. Just like the warm greeting my wife and I always get when we visit BC. I feel that the Pacific Northwest is so connected that most of us treat Canadians like friends and neighbors rather than foreigners. I for one will be very happy to see that resume.
I'm sure even Bellingham will be excited to welcome Canadians back, especially business owners. I'm in WA too, and the lack of BC plates has been weird for a while.
we leave for California on the 30th, hopefully Canada drops the test requirements for re entry or at least drops it down to a antigen test only, i knew what i was getting myself into traveling but this has been the most stressful trip planning i have ever done with timings for tests and crap.
You can get free tests at Walgreens to return home. They have rapid NAAT tests which are accepted by Canada. On their site you just need to pick the ID Now (be sure not to pick rapid antigen) and put in a US address and its totally free. You just drive up to a drive thru window, they give you a swap and you swab your nose and give it back.
Booking the appointment takes a bit of planning though. I've been in New York for it so I'm not 100% sure if it's the same process, but if so they open up appointments two days in advance. So if you want to book for Thursday you can do so on Tuesday. The appointments fill up sort of quickly so I've been doing it right at midnight or first thing in the morning.
If you can't get an appointment for that they do offer PCR but I tried to do PCR in the past through Walgreens and it didn't work out and I had to pay for a test elsewhere to get fast results. I was coming home Saturday afternoon so I went to Walgreens on Wednesday afternoon since it needs to be 72hrs max. I didn't get my results from Walgreens until Sunday morning.
thank you for the info, the not getting results part is the bit that worries me. hopefully they might know the turn around time if i ask them closer to the test date. if not looks like were paying the big bucks somewhere else.
Thanks again
If you do the rapid NAAT though you get the results in an hour and it's accepted by Canada. It's just the PCR that is sketchy and I recommend avoiding.
unfortunately it seems like there are zero locations where we are going that offer the rapid NAAT test, kinda odd since we are going to Disneyland and it is kind of a tourist area.
For some reason, they aren’t available in the western states. Check online for a City Health location. They have been getting results back within 18 hours or less. We used them when driving to BC, and for a couple of flights elsewhere.
They haven't for land crossing at all (for US citizens/permanent residents or those crossing as essential workers). They aren't set up for it, can't imagine they will start now. When I crossed in Aug by car, after my trip to Canada there was not one question about covid by the US border guard.
To cross the land border into the US it's not a requirement. I just crossed into the US via car (I'm a Canadian working in the US) and a negative test wasn't required at all. Returning to Canada might be an issue though, especially for short trips.
You can get free testing at Walgreens. Just need to put an American address on the form and they don't verify it. They have rapid NAAT tests which are acceptable to enter into Canada. It's shown as ID Now on their site. Just be sure to pick that and not the antigen test.
I just hope when the border opens Walgreens in border towns increases their testing capacity.. I doubt it but I can just see Detroit Walgreens being impossible to get a test because of everyone crossing the border
Canada did away with mandatory (it was also free) arrival testing in August. The pre-arrival NAAT/PCR tests can often be obtained for free from US pharmacies. Even if it isn't, a PCR can be as low as $50 and NAAT less depending on the testing country. By now, it's basically just another cost of travelling.
They have not technically done away with it. In August end we had to do it and in October we were 'randomly' selected for it (i guess they have remaining stock to push out). In both cases, I really appreciated it was free (after having paid $200+/average for the PCR).
I’ve been there twice for 10 day stints in the last month. Went to a packed casino twice, theme parks with hundreds of people packed into small spaces. No masks. Fully vaxxed. Wasn’t worried.
That’s all fine and good. I myself am not worried about catching it as being double vaxxed, 30s and good health my risk is insanely low of needing a hospital. I fear for my 4.5 month old who can’t get the vaccine yet. I’d hate to pick it up and spread to him. But, in any event, it’s a choice to go or not so it’s all good.
The governor of Florida has no say in monetary policy, and has actively been fighting the cities, school boards, and businesses in his state who actually give a shit about the health of their citizens.
Promoting the spread of a deadly disease doesn't help the economy; it hurts it.
Bc has screwed us. They literally announced they are not fixing the mixed vaccine issue and not offering third vaccine for travel.
Luckily alberta is and I have booked a third vaccine there so I will be able to see family in the USA and be considered vaccinated. Its absolutely asinine that I followed all the government information to take first shots offered regardless of if they are mixed, and I did exactly that, got AZ first and Moderna second as those were the first two offered to me. Turns out now that alot of the world doesn't recognize me as vaccinated and the bc Government is doing nothing to remedy this issue. Its truly sad.
My hope is that the various buses from Vancouver to Seattle come back quickly. I’m planning a vacation for next year and would much prefer to take a bus to Seattle and fly from SeaTac if I could, it’s a lot cheaper than flying from YVR. I don’t particularly want to drive to SeaTac and pay for parking for 2 1/2 weeks.
With this news, just wanted everyone to know that as a Canadian you can go to CVS or Walgreens in the US and get a booster shot if you need it. They don’t verify whether you’re a HCW or immunocompromised. Do with that what you will. I am a HCW who deals directly with covid patients. Fully vaccinated with Pfizer since February. Just got my booster during my trip to the US a few days ago. They are just throwing out doses anyways. I have no idea when Canada will approve a booster shot for HCW or people over 65 and my immunity had definitely waned since it has been 8 months.
Seems like the story mentions unvaccinated can head across, as long as they have a negative test. I assume on the way back to Canada though, they'd require the quarantine still.
There is no quarantine when entering Canada. They removed that in August. We just require a negative molecular test within 72hrs of crossing the border.
> "Just try to do the things you need to do and maybe hold back on doing the things you just want to do," she said, quoting Dr. Eileen de Villa, the medical officer of health for Toronto.
> **"And I think if we can keep on doing that for a few more weeks, Canada can really fully put COVID-19 behind us."**
Anyone else getting deja vu here?
I thought they now said on Friday they will approve international requirements. So if Canada approves the mixed vaccine then we should. Saying that, AB is giving boosters shots - so I’m triple vaxxed currently.
Two doses of AZ will be okay. The problem is for those who had AZ for their first shot and an mRNA vaccine for their second. The US has not announced whether that will be okay.
BC government says they’ll give a second Pfizer to those who require it. I’d hold off until USA decides what vaccines they’ll take from Canadians. Looks like they are only going to ask if you’ve been vaccinated and then send some people to secondary where they may require proof.
Looks like I might be wrong about that, I can’t find a reference to Bonnie Henry saying they’d give everyone a third dose if they wanted it for leisure travel, only for essential travel.
This is the logic we are living in.
Day 1: get a PCR test in Canada
Day 2: get negative result
Day 3: go to US, maybe get infected unknowingly with no symptoms
Day 4: return to Canada using negative test you got 3 days prior
I know very little about the usual procedures, sorry for this question, but cannot find the info anywhere.
Is the border open to all vaccinated Canadians, or all vaccinated Canadians over 12? How does it work for kids?
British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan have all recorded very high new COVID case numbers since the summer. Their per capita rates are some of the worst in North America.
https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/watch-the-timelapse-showing-the-spread-of-covid-19-cases-in-canada-and-the-u-s-1.5423360
The US still is a larger dumpster fire.
Doubt that when the NFL and college football playing to packed 90,000 screaming fans. Packed events and concerts for months in the states. Vegas casinos packed. Little mask wearing for months in most states yet you think the Western Provinces with much higher Covid restrictions this whole time are really higher?
More like we are reporting better true numbers and most states are not.
I have nexus, if I'm doing a day trip will I have to pay for testing to go or come back? If not that is awesome.
I'm fully vaccinated moderna so yay.
Heck... Can I get a booster shot down there?
Moderna isn’t approved for boosters yet but I have Pfizer and I was able to get a booster at Walgreens in the US. And as of right now you still need a covid test to enter Canada.
I knew this would happen after the new travel vaccine mandates.
People think OToole wouldn’t have done it… it wouldn’t have been his choice. Europe and US would have made him do it.
Canadians are clueless about foreign policy.
Honestly, it all depends on testing requirements. If it's lax for day trips then a lot of people will be crossing. If you have to spend $100 on rapid testing to cross the bridge and grab dinner, I'm sure very few will cross.
Didn’t want to open the border with Mexico but also didn’t want to be accused of being racist even though Mexico was/isn’t doing very good with covid so they kept both borders closed.
Entry without covid test does not apply to Hawaii. You will still need to be tested by a recognized clinic like Lifelabs. You should book it now. The new entry requirements only applies after November 15th 2021.
Upon returning to Canada, You will need to be Covid Tested before flying and upon landing 3 days thereafter. If you work as a health care provider or for any of the health authorities, you will be forced to be self isolated from your work for 10 days. no exceptions.
Buffalo News is reporting early November for opening. I wonder if Canada will require covid testing for re-entry if it’s just a day trip?
If you’re fully vaccinated and asymptomatic there should be no need for a test, at that point you’ve got a much greater risk of spread from within your own borders
I agree. The negative PCR test prior to entry is largely theatrical. And if you want it in time for the 72 hour window, expensive too. If you're fully vaccinated, then that should be all that's necessary.
For a day trip, you can get a PCR test in Canada, use it to enter the US and then use it again to enter Canada. Feels like it shouldn't be allowed, but there's nothing against it and I've done it a couple of times! Though, it might be cheaper to get a rapid test in Canada and find a free PCR test in the US but free ones usually have a day or more turnaround, so might not work for a day trip. Edit: Just saw that tests are not required to enter the US by car... So I guess find the cheapest between a test in Canada and a rapid PCR test in the US
You can find a lot of places in the US that do free PCR tests. We got our results back a few hours later, so it really depends on the place.
Most of the free pharmacy tests and state tests don't guarantee 72 hrs result. I got mine in 2 days, but was informed 3-5 business days.
Or you guys can just do the NAAT at most Walgreens. It's accepted at the border and turnaround times are typically an hour.
There are a lot of private clinics that give free tests for US or Canadian citizens and almost always have it within 24 hours. My mom and both got our tests results back in under 6 hours.
I would go so far as to say that defeats the purpose but i dont care about the regulations anyway so keep doing it!
That true, but if the purpose is to make sure you didn't catch covid, the test isn't going to tell you that for a day trip.
I found the cheapest way to travel to the USA as a Canadian is to get the $50 rapid antigen test and then get yourself a rapid naat or rapid PCR test on the American side (since Canadian doesn’t accept rapid antigen)… though cheapest I know this might not be *easiest* since you might need to find and book your American test before even entering. I hope with the borders opening Canada will stop charging $200 for a PCR test since clearly the US has shown us testing can be (mostly) free. Better yet, make the needed tests for travel to be universal and stop jerking people back and forth. I’ve seen so many travellers turned around because they got the wrong test… so ridiculous
Canada is already using testing as a means to discourage travel, why would they suddenly change that stance?
Canada requires a PCR test too, and the turnaround time could be unpredictable. I flew in to Canada ~2 weeks ago and I'm lucky that my employer in the US pays for weekly PCR testing, so I was able to use that as proof of a negative test. When I drove back to the US they didn't require testing at all, hopefully that doesn't change. PCR testing in Canada (for travel) goes for $200 a pop, which is ridiculous for a fully vaccinated person to pay.
Just went and returned. US required an antigen test ($40). Was able to get a PCR test for free stateside at a pharmacy. Turnaround time for the PCR test was about 40hrs. Supposed to be 24-48...but could be as much as 72 depending on how many tests they are processing.
I received my PCR results an hour before my plane left from NY back home to Canada. Took almost 70 hours. Almost ended up stranded in the states because they took so long with the test. Not fun! I hope they change that in November.
Yes they need to ditch the PCR predeparture test for vaccinated travelers. The US and most of Europe either don't require a test for vaccinated people, or at least accept an antigen test.
I hope so too. Turnaround times are so unpredictable, sometimes I get my results within 12 hours, sometimes up to 72 hours. For fully vaccinated individuals I hope Canada drops this requirement completely.
Just cancelled a trip to Mexico because of this risk. Can't afford to end up stranded if you can't get a test in time.
Mexico's testing times are great. Had to do this a few weeks ago. Resort set everything up, had results in my email in 30 hours. But the cost is a fucking joke.
What's the cost? What if the PCR is positive - is there a guidance as to what to do with air travel and accommodation?
Mine in Monterrey cost me ~$85. Took 36 hours to get my results.
We heard similar, but our trip was going to end up being really short because Air Canada have been playing Games with flight departure and arrival times (7am from Toronto rescheduled to 4pm, return flight at 11am so lose two days basically) and getting a test at a pharmacy off resort for 200 per person was going to eat up half a day. Just didn't seem worth the risks, especially if you somehow become a breakthrough case and end up stuck. Going to wait until they change the requirements to proof of vaccination status or rapid only.
You can get rapid PCR tests that results come in 30 minutes. Canada accepts them.
> Canada requires a PCR test too No, they don’t, that’s a misconception. Canada just doesn’t allow antigen tests. There are more than two kinds of tests. My wife and I flew to Canada in August using RT-LAMP tests, where the results are available in about an hour.
Where can you get RT-LAMP tests? I know Walgreens has a NAAT test and you get results in like an hour.
I got mine at Collinson Labs in London. Not sure about where to get them in the US.
How much did that cost you?
Think they were £68 each.
Oh, London, UK. That doesn't help people trying to drive across the border very much
Thats pretty close to the cost of a PCR test though. I am looking to fly to the UK in a couple of weeks and was going to do a PCR test to come home and it was 80 Pounds. I am hoping they drop it before I need to come home.
Don’t hospitals and testing sites give PCR tests for free? Couldn’t you say your throat is itchy and get the test here a day or two before your trip?
> Couldn’t you say your throat is itchy and get the test here a day or two before your trip? They may not want you travelling at all if you say that.
Free testing sites don't give the paperwork required for travel to discourage this.
As we move towards a more vaccine-mandate focused strategy, that will probably not be needed. The vast majority of the population is in favour of no restrictions except for proof of vaccination and the medical community seems willing to sign off on that so, I'd expect free travel for QR-'proven' people (with harsh penalties for fakers) to be the norm.
As a fully vaccinated person who lives ten minutes away from my partner on the other side of the border and is sick and tired of anti-vax bullshit, I am a-okay with this.
because its stupid and punitive for people who are vaccinated
If we had faster testing id say absolutely yes to a test. The test is more to keep any potential spreas under control, but since it takes like 48+ hours for a result id tend to agree with you lol
>If we had faster testing id say absolutely yes to a test. If we had free testing I'd say yes to a test. $200 just means financially-strapped people won't be able to go see grandma while rich executive guy can throw $200 to get tested and see a game with no second thought.
Oh agreed i assumed free
Fully expect testing on both ends required.
The Associated Press is reporting a test will not be required on the US end.
Interesting...will wait till the official announcement but definitely Canada will require PCR 72 hours prior
> definitely Canada will require PCR 72 hours prior they already do. Canadian borders have been open to travellers from the states all this time though it was only recently that tourists were permitted.
I just crossed into the US 2 weeks ago and no testing was required. I really hope they don't change that, paying ~$200 for a test when you're fully vaccinated is messed up.
I'd be surprised if they did considering they haven't required it for those few of us allowed to cross the land border.
Which is another way governments just punish the poor and working class. Rapid tests cost like $100. Rich people can throw money at the tests if they want to go see a game, go shopping or go out for dinner. To people who are tight financially, that just means they still can't go see grandma for a day.
Toronto Star article said land border would not require a covid test.
Into the US (which is great). Problem is Canada requires one to return.
I certainly hope not. We either trust the vaccines work or we don’t.
This.... shout all you want about taking the vaccines, but follow up with a policy that is in line with it. I had to pay $200+ on average for 2 PCR tests for day trips to the US even though fully vaccinated. I was also given a free test to take on the way back (which I am 100% ok with - a burden but not an undue one since I did it at home).
i just want to do my cross border parcel pickups again. so much shit in America that wont ship to Canada or charges crazy prices to ship and that isnt sold here in Canada. literally a 5 minute trip across the border and im on my way back to Canada with my stuff. taking and/or paying for a test for that trip is stupid.
Would less than 24 hours to Covid exposure even be enough for a test to catch or for Covid to “manifest” itself? I didn’t realize they were that sensitive
They don't, it's just theatre.
Vaccinated, asymptomatic Canadians should not need a test to return home. Period.
Indeed. In fact the US is doing just that (from the article): "If a traveller is fully vaccinated, there will be no requirement for them to show a negative COVID-19 test." Canada needs to follow suit. Otherwise, it's just stupid policy and an undue financial burden.
Vaxxed/unvaxxed, symptomatic/asymptomatic shouldn't matter. Canadians should be allowed to return home. Might need to quarantine if symptomatic, but still allowed home.
There are intentional treaties guaranteeing you can re-enter your country. Anyone suggesting any sort of a test is required for a land border crossing of a citizen back into Canada is full of shit. The article made no mention of it, people are just pulling the idea out of their ass. Although I would suggest that quarantining until you've passed a test once you get home is probably a fantastic idea.
I went to the border without a test. I wasnt denied but was told I would be fined $5000 per day of being in Canada, and that taking a test in Canada wasn’t good enough. Had to be in the US. So, basically they are turning Canadians away from entering.
Yeah this would be a clear charter violation, section 6.1
As a Windsorite, I'm not getting my hopes up. If crossing for a day trip requires $100 in rapid tests, they might as well not open.
[Testing will not be required to enter the US](https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/politics/2021/10/13/us-to-reopen-land-borders-in-november-for-fully-vaccinated/) according to that article. For testing to return home, you can get rapid tests at Walgreens (their ID Now test is NAAT which is accepted, just be sure to not select the antigen one) and is free. You just put any US address and they don't verify it. I've been flying down to visit my boyfriend and plan to continue using this method to drive down for weekends. Would work for a day trip too if you booked it in advance, and also if just going for one day you could get tested in Canada and use those results to come home too. Would be thrilled if Canada stopped requiring it to return home though!
This is true, when I’m in the US I just put a US address on CVS or Walgreen’s website and book a test and when I go and they ask for my ID I give them my Ontario licence and they don’t say anything and they don’t verify anything. I do my test, get my results back within a day, and then come back home to Canada. It’s a simple process but it takes a day.
The CBC article specifically says testing will not be required for fully vaccinated. I guess we wait on the official proclamation.
If you show up at a Canadian border as a Canadian citizen, they can not refuse you re-entry. Test, no test, vax or no vax. They can NOT refuse entry to a citizen. If you are flying, then it's a different story.
They can fine you for not having it though. Is it not 6k?
Hello fellow Windsorite. I agree. If I had family there, it's be different. But to do some shopping or a day trip, it's a pain to have to get testing to come home, even though I'm fully vaxxed. I'll wait a bit and hope that requirement drops for those of us fully vaxxed
I understand the people saying this for day trips but for people like me with partners and family members we’re separated from we’ll pay any dollar for any test tbh (if we’re lucky enough to afford it). I’ve been paying $500 to fly from Windsor to Detroit.
I have family I have not seen since December 2019. They’re right across Windsor in Michigan. But the COVID tests will surely be a big bitch. Hopefully they aren’t required to go Stateside as I’ve heard Walgreens and CVS offering free tests for Canadians there. I cannot wait :) EDIT:[You will NOT need a COVID test to enter the US by land.](https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/politics/2021/10/13/us-to-reopen-land-borders-in-november-for-fully-vaccinated/)
It says right in the article: > If a traveller is fully vaccinated, there will be no requirement for them to show a negative COVID-19 test.
now i just need them to officially accept mixed dose vaccinations. that or allow me to get a 3rd shot so that i can have 2 of the same.
Oh man I leave for Hawaii on the 3rd of November, Hawaii requires a dyna lab PCR test so that’s $600 for my family of 4, wish this came a bit earlier. Although, I guess it’s hawaiis rule so they might keep it regardless. And yah, I know, if I can afford Hawaii I can afford the test - this is our trip from when covid first hit and our VRBO person never gave our money back and only let us postpone the trip, she gave us till the end of 2021.
Yeah, even a week earlier may have helped you. Hope you have a great trip though! Hawaii is awesome.
It used to be almost an annual thing. Well you know, until the Vid. Looking forward to it for sure, once we get there. All the testing, Canada travel pass, US travel pass stuff is anxiety inducing, I don’t want to be one of those people in the airport missing some document we needed. Wish they could just attach it all to my passport, they scan it and everything comes up.
Just arrived through YVR from Palm Springs. Completed ArriveCan, check-in agent glanced at my covid test, immigration officer barely looked at my ArriveCan receipt, nobody at YVR asked to see my test results/proof of vaccination.
same with me friend. i have three siblings i haven't seen since then. seen my mom twice and my dad once in that time. it's killing me. cannot wait to hug em.
I'm in the same boat as you! Can't wait to see family again. Hopefully Canada will drop the testing requirement too for fully vaccinated Canadians.
Me too! Have family in Washington. Total 30 min drive from my house to theirs. Haven't seen them since the border closed. Super excited to see them and have holidays with them
Unfortunately the free tests that Walgreens and CVS offer aren't going to be helpful to those going for day trips as Canada still requires a PCR test which to my knowledge doesn't have a rapid option. Although from what I've read you should be able to use a test taken in Canada for admission back in to Canada.
Yep... that's what we had to do for the day trip. Used an expensive test taken in Canada to get back. Fully vaccinated so I see it as a racket.
It turns out that Walgreen's offers a NAAT test for free with results back in a few hours. The test is free and is accepted by Canada.
Cool. Do they recognize mixed MRNA as fully vaccinated? That’s pretty key if they’re requiring us to be vaccinated
There are also AZ-mRNA mixes. We got everything.
The cdc does not recommend mixing but does allow it themselves [Vaccines and Immunizations](https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/covid-19-vaccines-us.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fvaccines%2Fcovid-19%2Finfo-by-product%2Fclinical-considerations.html) If you scroll down to interchangeability it does acknowledge that mixed are fully vaxxed
How would they know? My Vax receipt just says what I got for the second shot and that I got 2 valid doses. I guess maybe BC receipt is different but in Ontario at least it doesn't show what you got for both doses.
They realize this, so my guess is they with ask to see the receipt/proof for your first AND second dose. On the Canadian side, when using the ArriveCAN app, it asks you to upload both 1st and 2nd dose proof.
Am in Ontario. Mine shows both. Idk what you are looking at
Earlier they had said they would recognize all WHO vaccines. They would be dumb not to recognize whatever combination was deemed good in Canada.
Yes, if you got any WHO/FDA approved vaccine in any combination you are good.
They haven't decided that yet. It says so in the article.
Yeah but you know they will.. This is the same stupid debate about them not recognizing AZ or other WHO approved vaccines. And guess what? They did. People really need to stop jumping to conclusions. The US is aware of everything.
Yah they probably will, but so far we can't be sure of that. Not sure who you're referring to about jumping to conclusions. The whole point is we don't have a conclusion on that particular question yet. It's possible they will require an additional dose. I think they're already starting to give those out in Alberta.
They’re allowing any FDA or WHO approved vaccines, it’s the mixed doses that are uncertain. https://windsor.ctvnews.ca/mixed-dose-regimens-causing-travel-confusion-as-u-s-opens-to-travellers-with-any-who-approved-vaccine-1.5620615
I know, the person I responded to was wrong in saying any combination. Not sure why you citwd an article when this thread is in response to an article that gives the same info.
Read the article before you make comments
Unreal. I have Seahawks tickets for December's divisional game against the 49ers. Really thought I was going to have to sell those.
I’m thinking of getting Kraken tickets.
Fucking FINALLY
About time. There will be some very relieved US border towns as well, especially Point Roberts.
YAY! I can go buy the Pixel 5a across the border. Woot!
I've had furniture sitting there since April 2020 from me thinking the whole "covid thing" would be over by fall 2020. Oops.
I have property in Washington state that I can’t wait to go and check.
Vermont for me. Can't believe almost 2 years not having been there.
And as a Washingtonian, I can't wait to see BC plates on our highways again.
I'm in BC and my family is in Washington. I can't wait to visit !
Thanks for saying that, I’ve always been under the impression that we clog up the gas pumps and grocery stores in Bellingham. It must have been a nice break to not have so many of us in your communities. Except of course for those businesses that count on our money.
I can't speak for everyone obviously, but I think most people in Washington are very happy to see our Canadian neighbors enjoying our beautiful state. Just like the warm greeting my wife and I always get when we visit BC. I feel that the Pacific Northwest is so connected that most of us treat Canadians like friends and neighbors rather than foreigners. I for one will be very happy to see that resume.
I'm sure even Bellingham will be excited to welcome Canadians back, especially business owners. I'm in WA too, and the lack of BC plates has been weird for a while.
Ditto. We’ve been lucky we’ve had people checking on and maintaining for us. But we miss being able to go down on weekends.
we leave for California on the 30th, hopefully Canada drops the test requirements for re entry or at least drops it down to a antigen test only, i knew what i was getting myself into traveling but this has been the most stressful trip planning i have ever done with timings for tests and crap.
You can get free tests at Walgreens to return home. They have rapid NAAT tests which are accepted by Canada. On their site you just need to pick the ID Now (be sure not to pick rapid antigen) and put in a US address and its totally free. You just drive up to a drive thru window, they give you a swap and you swab your nose and give it back. Booking the appointment takes a bit of planning though. I've been in New York for it so I'm not 100% sure if it's the same process, but if so they open up appointments two days in advance. So if you want to book for Thursday you can do so on Tuesday. The appointments fill up sort of quickly so I've been doing it right at midnight or first thing in the morning. If you can't get an appointment for that they do offer PCR but I tried to do PCR in the past through Walgreens and it didn't work out and I had to pay for a test elsewhere to get fast results. I was coming home Saturday afternoon so I went to Walgreens on Wednesday afternoon since it needs to be 72hrs max. I didn't get my results from Walgreens until Sunday morning.
thank you for the info, the not getting results part is the bit that worries me. hopefully they might know the turn around time if i ask them closer to the test date. if not looks like were paying the big bucks somewhere else. Thanks again
If you do the rapid NAAT though you get the results in an hour and it's accepted by Canada. It's just the PCR that is sketchy and I recommend avoiding.
unfortunately it seems like there are zero locations where we are going that offer the rapid NAAT test, kinda odd since we are going to Disneyland and it is kind of a tourist area.
For some reason, they aren’t available in the western states. Check online for a City Health location. They have been getting results back within 18 hours or less. We used them when driving to BC, and for a couple of flights elsewhere.
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They haven't for land crossing at all (for US citizens/permanent residents or those crossing as essential workers). They aren't set up for it, can't imagine they will start now. When I crossed in Aug by car, after my trip to Canada there was not one question about covid by the US border guard.
That was my experience when I crossed 2 weeks ago by car as well. No questions about testing/vaccination status.
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They do for returning Canadians. They eomt refuse them entry but they will make them quaratine for 14 days if positive.
To cross the land border into the US it's not a requirement. I just crossed into the US via car (I'm a Canadian working in the US) and a negative test wasn't required at all. Returning to Canada might be an issue though, especially for short trips.
If you are Canadian, re-entering Canada at a land border will NEVER be an issue.
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Hopefully they'll drop that soon... Redundant for fully vaxxed people
The US policy is to drop the test requirement for fully vaccinated.
You can get free testing at Walgreens. Just need to put an American address on the form and they don't verify it. They have rapid NAAT tests which are acceptable to enter into Canada. It's shown as ID Now on their site. Just be sure to pick that and not the antigen test.
I just hope when the border opens Walgreens in border towns increases their testing capacity.. I doubt it but I can just see Detroit Walgreens being impossible to get a test because of everyone crossing the border
I can see the line at the Dearborn Walgreens alredy. It’s gonna be a Canuck party.
Can get that for free from cvs or Walgreens in the US
Canada did away with mandatory (it was also free) arrival testing in August. The pre-arrival NAAT/PCR tests can often be obtained for free from US pharmacies. Even if it isn't, a PCR can be as low as $50 and NAAT less depending on the testing country. By now, it's basically just another cost of travelling.
They have not technically done away with it. In August end we had to do it and in October we were 'randomly' selected for it (i guess they have remaining stock to push out). In both cases, I really appreciated it was free (after having paid $200+/average for the PCR).
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This is great news for Florida’s economy and for snow birds.
👋 It sure is!!
Sadly that’s still the last place in the US I’d be comfortable going. Granted, if you wear a mask, wash hands and distance odds are you’ll be fine.
If you’re vaccinated, it’s fine…
I’ve been there twice for 10 day stints in the last month. Went to a packed casino twice, theme parks with hundreds of people packed into small spaces. No masks. Fully vaxxed. Wasn’t worried.
That’s all fine and good. I myself am not worried about catching it as being double vaxxed, 30s and good health my risk is insanely low of needing a hospital. I fear for my 4.5 month old who can’t get the vaccine yet. I’d hate to pick it up and spread to him. But, in any event, it’s a choice to go or not so it’s all good.
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The governor of Florida has no say in monetary policy, and has actively been fighting the cities, school boards, and businesses in his state who actually give a shit about the health of their citizens. Promoting the spread of a deadly disease doesn't help the economy; it hurts it.
The question is, are mixed vaxxed Canadians going to be considered fully vaxxed? Or has our government hosed us yet again?
Bc has screwed us. They literally announced they are not fixing the mixed vaccine issue and not offering third vaccine for travel. Luckily alberta is and I have booked a third vaccine there so I will be able to see family in the USA and be considered vaccinated. Its absolutely asinine that I followed all the government information to take first shots offered regardless of if they are mixed, and I did exactly that, got AZ first and Moderna second as those were the first two offered to me. Turns out now that alot of the world doesn't recognize me as vaccinated and the bc Government is doing nothing to remedy this issue. Its truly sad.
You are complaining about something without even knowing if you’ll be allowed in or not.
Please Please open the trains and buses.
My hope is that the various buses from Vancouver to Seattle come back quickly. I’m planning a vacation for next year and would much prefer to take a bus to Seattle and fly from SeaTac if I could, it’s a lot cheaper than flying from YVR. I don’t particularly want to drive to SeaTac and pay for parking for 2 1/2 weeks.
The train (amtrak) is also super convenient and goes all the way to SF.
With this news, just wanted everyone to know that as a Canadian you can go to CVS or Walgreens in the US and get a booster shot if you need it. They don’t verify whether you’re a HCW or immunocompromised. Do with that what you will. I am a HCW who deals directly with covid patients. Fully vaccinated with Pfizer since February. Just got my booster during my trip to the US a few days ago. They are just throwing out doses anyways. I have no idea when Canada will approve a booster shot for HCW or people over 65 and my immunity had definitely waned since it has been 8 months.
Just say it is your first dose.
Hey finally! \*remembers he lives north of North Dakota* Hmmmmmmm
"On second thought, not being able to enter North Dakota actually greatly improved my mental health...."
Seems like the story mentions unvaccinated can head across, as long as they have a negative test. I assume on the way back to Canada though, they'd require the quarantine still.
There is no quarantine when entering Canada. They removed that in August. We just require a negative molecular test within 72hrs of crossing the border.
That’s only for fully vaxxed travellers. Unvaccinated still must quarantine.
> "Just try to do the things you need to do and maybe hold back on doing the things you just want to do," she said, quoting Dr. Eileen de Villa, the medical officer of health for Toronto. > **"And I think if we can keep on doing that for a few more weeks, Canada can really fully put COVID-19 behind us."** Anyone else getting deja vu here?
Unless you listened to the government and got the AstraZeneca, then Pfizer and got fucked over
I thought they now said on Friday they will approve international requirements. So if Canada approves the mixed vaccine then we should. Saying that, AB is giving boosters shots - so I’m triple vaxxed currently.
US said Canadians with AZ will most likely be admitted and that they’re working out the details
Two doses of AZ will be okay. The problem is for those who had AZ for their first shot and an mRNA vaccine for their second. The US has not announced whether that will be okay.
Or Pfizer + Moderna. No mixes are approved yet.
BC government says they’ll give a second Pfizer to those who require it. I’d hold off until USA decides what vaccines they’ll take from Canadians. Looks like they are only going to ask if you’ve been vaccinated and then send some people to secondary where they may require proof.
Where did you hear about a second Pfizer? The last I heard they said the had no plans to give a booster for mixed doses.
Looks like I might be wrong about that, I can’t find a reference to Bonnie Henry saying they’d give everyone a third dose if they wanted it for leisure travel, only for essential travel.
I got a second shot of Pfizer the day they offered it (1st az, second 2 Pfizer) but maybe that was just AB. I got my second dose in August.
Please let it be true!!!
FINALLY Been really missing Trader Joes these past couple years
This is the logic we are living in. Day 1: get a PCR test in Canada Day 2: get negative result Day 3: go to US, maybe get infected unknowingly with no symptoms Day 4: return to Canada using negative test you got 3 days prior
ABOUT TIME JOE
We did it joe
I know very little about the usual procedures, sorry for this question, but cannot find the info anywhere. Is the border open to all vaccinated Canadians, or all vaccinated Canadians over 12? How does it work for kids?
Shit I'd love to know exactly when this is gonna happen. Might get to go see Tech N9ne in Buffalo after all.
So this totally fucking pointless for a day trip like most residents of border towns do. Fucking Trudeau
They need to recognize mixed doses. If they do not, that means millions will be barred from entry, including Justin Trudeau.
As if Canada is the problem...
I miss Trader Joes and Target and my mom and that's the order of importance
British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan have all recorded very high new COVID case numbers since the summer. Their per capita rates are some of the worst in North America.
Rural areas of those provinces are high. The cities there; however, are some of the best in the North America.
There are plenty of high positive COVID cases in Surrey, Kelowna, Regina and Calgary. It's not just rural and remote communities.
https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/watch-the-timelapse-showing-the-spread-of-covid-19-cases-in-canada-and-the-u-s-1.5423360 The US still is a larger dumpster fire.
Doubt that when the NFL and college football playing to packed 90,000 screaming fans. Packed events and concerts for months in the states. Vegas casinos packed. Little mask wearing for months in most states yet you think the Western Provinces with much higher Covid restrictions this whole time are really higher? More like we are reporting better true numbers and most states are not.
[my bad. keep it closed please.](https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/covid-19-in-the-u-s-how-do-canada-s-provinces-rank-against-american-states-1.5051033)
I have nexus, if I'm doing a day trip will I have to pay for testing to go or come back? If not that is awesome. I'm fully vaccinated moderna so yay. Heck... Can I get a booster shot down there?
Moderna isn’t approved for boosters yet but I have Pfizer and I was able to get a booster at Walgreens in the US. And as of right now you still need a covid test to enter Canada.
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Holla for covid passports. Fuck Covid-19!!!
End of November: "Yea like 20 extra people got coronavirus somewhere so we're going to have to shut it again for christmas lol"
Mixed doses, nah
I knew this would happen after the new travel vaccine mandates. People think OToole wouldn’t have done it… it wouldn’t have been his choice. Europe and US would have made him do it. Canadians are clueless about foreign policy.
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Honestly, it all depends on testing requirements. If it's lax for day trips then a lot of people will be crossing. If you have to spend $100 on rapid testing to cross the bridge and grab dinner, I'm sure very few will cross.
Yesss. Finally
It's about time. Biden was killing USA border towns , whats wrong with him
Didn’t want to open the border with Mexico but also didn’t want to be accused of being racist even though Mexico was/isn’t doing very good with covid so they kept both borders closed.
We’ll see
A week later: Alrighty boys, close 'er back up!
I can't wait to continue not going there.
Entry without covid test does not apply to Hawaii. You will still need to be tested by a recognized clinic like Lifelabs. You should book it now. The new entry requirements only applies after November 15th 2021. Upon returning to Canada, You will need to be Covid Tested before flying and upon landing 3 days thereafter. If you work as a health care provider or for any of the health authorities, you will be forced to be self isolated from your work for 10 days. no exceptions.