How to travel to the U.S. from Canada (and how to get back)
Let’s face it: international travel these days can still be… well, tricky.
If you’re planning to come to Washington State from Canada, here’s everything you need to know about planning your trip across the border and back.
Editor's note: this article was last updated 5/27/2022 at 10 a.m. PST. For up-to-the-minute info, please check with the U.S. Government here or the Canadian government here.
Use the ArriveCAN app to provide the government with necessary information.
You can download the free app here. Fill in the required fields with your info -- vaccination status, planned duration of trip, etc. All information is confidential and the app does not track your movement with GPS.
The ArriveCAN app will speed up your border crossing experience. Please note: if you don’t use the app, the border crossing guards can prevent your entry to the U.S. or Canada.
Get fully vaccinated.
All non-immigrant, non-U.S. citizen air travelers to the United States must be fully vaccinated and provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to the United States. In addition, fully vaccinated foreign nationals may also enter the United States at land ports of entry (POE) and ferry terminals.
All airline passengers to the United States ages two years and older, regardless of vaccination status or citizenship, must provide a negative COVID-19 viral test taken within one calendar day of travel.
There are a few, limited exceptions to this rule.
Use ArriveCAN to return to Canada.
As of April pre-entry COVID-19 tests are no longer required for fully vaccinated travelers entering Canada by land, air or water. You must still use ArriveCAN within 72 hours before your arrival to Canada.
Mask up if you'd like and follow guidelines while in the U.S.
Washington State does not currently have a mask mandate, but state officials do recommend mask usage as Covid rates ebb and flow.
Please respect local communities by complying with state and local regulations at all times. When in doubt, check the state’s Department of Health website for the most up-to-date Covid-19 information.
Do your homework, plan your trip.
Looking for the best things to do to maximize your time stateside? We’ve curated a list of our favorite experiences in Seattle NorthCountry. See the content below for trip inspiration.
