U.S. To Reopen Canada, Mexico Borders To Vaccinated Travelers

WASHINGTON, DC — After months of remaining closed to non-essential travelers, the Department of Homeland Security this week announced it will reopen all land and ferry border crossings to travelers entering the United States from Canada or Mexico.

The reopening will happen in two phases over the next few months, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement. U.S. land borders have been closed to discretionary travel since March 2020.

In November, travelers from Mexico and Canada who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 will be allowed to enter the United States for non-essential purposes, including visiting friends and family or for tourism.

Second, beginning in early January 2022, the Department of Homeland Security will require all inbound foreign visitors — even essential travelers — at land or ferry ports to show proof they are fully vaccinated for COVID-19.

The two-phase approach will provide ample time for essential travelers such as truckers, students, and healthcare workers to get vaccinated, according to the statement.

"Cross-border travel creates significant economic activity in our border communities and benefits our broader economy," Mayorkas said in the statement. "We are pleased to be taking steps to resume regular travel in a safe and sustainable manner.”