Starting on January 22, 2022, individuals entering the U.S. on the Canadian or Mexican borders via land or ferry ports are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, per the Department of Homeland Security. Individuals must provide proof of vaccination. Essential and non-essential travel reasons require vaccination. The rules do not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR).

The policy is updated as the country continues to see an increase in Covid cases due to the fast-spreading omicron variant. The update is meant to slow the spread, protect public health in the U.S., and balance the need for cross-border trade and travel. The updated policy more closely follows existing requirements for individuals entering the U.S. via international air travel.

Individuals included in the updated policy entering the U.S. from land or ferry ports of entry, whether for non-essential or essential travel, must:

  • Claim their COVID-19 vaccination status,
  • Provide proof of vaccination with one of the CDC-approved providers,
  • Provide a valid passport, Enhanced Tribal Card, Trusted Traveler Program card or any other Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)-compliant document, and
  • Provide any other relevant documentation requested by a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officer

Testing for COVID-19 is not required for land or ferry port of entry.

All individuals entering at land or ferry ports of entry must provide a WHTI-compliant document, whether U.S. citizen, LPR, or U.S. National. Those who are not in compliance with these requirements will not be allowed to enter the U.S.

If you have questions about entry to the U.S. or any other immigration-related issue, contact us at ILBSG. We actively monitor ongoing updates to ensure our clients get the right advice.

COVID travel Land and Ferry Ports U.S. Border Management