OPINION:
To take the simplistic view that the Canadian border is open to Americans but the U.S. border is closed to Canadians in no way reflects the true nature of the situation.
As things stand, Americans are not allowed to enter Canada by land, air or sea if they haven’t taken a molecular COVID-19 test in the U.S. within 72 hours of arriving at the Canadian border. Then comes the “ArriveCan” website. Americans must upload to this website, a picture of their CDC vaccination card (both doses); they must file a 14-day quarantine plan in case they test positive for COVID-19 while they are in the country; and they must fill out a comprehensive list of personal information.
Once this form is submitted, the Canadian government will review your “case.” If you pass, they will email a receipt, which you must print out and take, along with proof of your negative molecular COVID-19 test, to the border within the 72-hour window. One minute late and you’re out of luck. Now, when you get to the border you will park and go into the office, and a border agent will make the final decision on whether you will be allowed in. Are you with me so far?
Even if you are allowed in, they may issue you a COVID-19 test kit that must be taken, and the results uploaded to the ArriveCan website. Here’s the kicker: You must complete the process even if you are only going to be in Canada for a single day.
I know all this because I’ve been there and done that. Oh, and by the way, not all the border guards understand the regulations the same way, so if you’re like me and have done everything they’ve asked, you can still be tied up for a myriad of confusing reasons.
Welcome to Canada.
TONY PHILLIPPS
Lynden, Wash.
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