The United States has kept its shared land border with Canada closed to non-essential travel since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. But on Monday, the U.S. started welcoming back recreational travellers by land and passenger ferry — as long as those aged 18 and older are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Younger travellers are exempt from the requirement.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) says its border crossings will be staffed at pre-pandemic levels starting on Monday, but it warns there could be longer-than-normal wait times. "For travellers making the trip to the United States, we ask for patience with our officers," said Matthew Davies, the executive director, admissibility and passenger programs, with CBP. "To help reduce wait times and long lines, we encourage travellers to have the correct documentation ready."
Travellers entering by land won't have to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test, but they should be prepared to attest to their vaccination status and present their vaccination documentation upon request. "We are going to ask you if you are fully vaccinated," said Jeffrey Toth, program manager with the CBP's Buffalo, N.Y., division. "You may be asked to provide proof."
When returning to Canada, recreational travellers must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of their return flight or planned arrival at the land border. Canada will only accept a molecular test — such as a PCR test — which can cost hundreds of dollars. Travellers crossing into the U.S. for short trips are allowed to take their molecular test in Canada and then use it upon their return — as long as it's less than 72 hours old.
This is an excerpt from the CBC news article https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/u-s-land-border-open-vaccinated-1.6233944