Restrictions limiting entry to the U.S. via land borders to the north and south, specifically Canada and Mexico, will be lifted for fully vaccinated foreign nationals in early November 2021. The restrictions have been in place since March 2020 to limit the spread of COVID-19. In an announcement from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), travelers from Mexico and Canada who are fully vaccinated will be allowed to enter the U.S. for non-essential purposes, including tourism, via both land and sea.

Opening the borders will help economies in the U.S., particularly among border states. However, with little to no travel to visit family and friends across borders for the last 19 months, it is expected that benefits may be felt across the U.S.

Individuals who are not fully vaccinated will not be allowed to enter the U.S. from Canada or Mexico land or sea borders. Proof of vaccination will not be required unless referred by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. However, if the individual does not have proof of vaccination, they will be denied entry. Foreign citizens entering via land or sea borders will not need to show proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test. U.S. citizens have not been limited in their return to the U.S., although a period of quarantine was required.

Currently, the Biden administration is following CDC guidelines and removing individuals from entering the U.S. without court proceedings under the ‘Title 42’ order. The order, put in place by the Trump Administration, essentially cuts off access for individuals seeking asylum, primarily affecting the Mexico border. The administration emphasized they will not lift ‘Title 42’ guidelines when the border reopens.

DHS stated the administration is developing “consistent, stringent protocols for all foreign nationals traveling to the United States – whether by air, land, or ferry.”

Canada started allowing fully vaccinated U.S. visitors for non-essential travel on August 9, 2021.

The U.S. will require essential workers to be vaccinated to cross land borders in early January 2022. This includes healthcare workers, transportation professionals, and other professional services.

Previously, the Biden administration announced the planned lifting of travel restrictions via air for 33 countries, including India, China, and most of Europe for individuals who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19. The vaccine requirement will extend to all foreign travelers to the U.S. from all other countries. For non-U.S. citizens entering the U.S. via air, proof of vaccination is required prior to boarding a flight. In addition, proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 3 days of boarding the flight, is required for foreign nationals.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated the U.S. will accept vaccines authorized by the World Health Organization or U.S. regulators.

ILBSG continues to monitor the ever-evolving policies for travelers to the U.S. from foreign countries. If you have questions about your entry to the U.S. or any other immigration-related issue, contact us. We put our expertise and insight to work for you to ensure you get the right advice.

border security COVID travel COVID vaccination requirement Ports of Entry