Expect revised ArriveCan app to reflect border changes

Cross-border travelers can expect to see a revised ArriveCan app in coming days to reflect recent changes in Canadian border policy. While details have to be announced, it is expected that the app will allow Point Roberts residents to upload their vaccination status for trips to Ladner and Tsawwassen or to transit to the mainland U.S. Currently, the app only allows vaccination status to be uploaded for travelers who are planning on longer stays or for going to destinations other than Delta.

The Canadian government recently issued changes to the Order in Council that governs Covid-19 quarantine policies. As of November 30, Canadians will be able to visit the U.S. for visits of under 72 hours without being required to submit a negative Covid-19 test result on their return. Point Roberts and other exclaves such as Hyder, Alaska and the Northwest Angle are excluded altogether from the 72-hour limit and testing requirements. However, this policy only applies to fully vaccinated travelers.

Any traveler entering Canada from these locations will be exempt from testing regardless of citizenship or place of residence. While other border communities are eagerly awaiting the arrival of Canadian travelers on November 30, Canadians are free to visit right now. Lower Mainland residents who are currently limited to buying 30 liters of gas at a time can be expected to look south to fill up their tanks. Local gas stations have already experienced an uptick in sales since the U.S. border opened up for non-essential trips.

U.S. travelers entering Canada for non-essential purposes at crossings other than the specified exclaves will still be required to present a negative Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours of their arrival as well as be fully vaccinated.

The Canadian government announced more border changes alongside the big news on dropping the Covid-19 test requirement for short trips. As of January 15, 2022, travelers who can currently enter Canada without being fully vaccinated, such as essential workers, will need to be fully vaccinated. This includes truck drivers, people reuniting with immediate or extended family (unvaccinated children under 18 will remain exempt), international students who are 18 years old and older, athletes and people with a work permit.

Limited exemptions will be available for workers in agriculture and food processing, marine crews, new permanent residents, people entering on compassionate grounds, refugees and some children under 18 years old, according to the Canadian government. Those exempt will still need to take a Covid-19 test and quarantine if they test positive.

“The Government of Canada's response to the Covid-19 pandemic will continue to prioritize the health and safety of Canadians,” the release stated. “As vaccination levels, case counts and hospitalization rates evolve, the Government of Canada will continue to consider further targeted measures at the borders – and when to lift or adjust them – to keep Canadians safe.”