After two years of pandemic-related restrictions, Covid-19 case counts have finally dropped. As a result, the door is once again open for international travel. However, there are still travel restrictions in place, as well as certain obstacles you are likely to face. These vary depending on where you visit and whether you travel for holidays or business. If you are planning international travel this summer, it's important to research summer travel requirements and trips.
At Ackah Business Immigration Law, we have over 50 years of experience providing clients with the trusted legal guidance needed to cross international borders seamlessly. Here are important travel updates you need to be aware of in 2022, whether you are conducting cross-border business or planning summer travel.
Updated International Travel Requirements
A drop in COVID-19 case counts worldwide means that international travel may resume for the summer of 2022, but there are still some obstacles you are likely to face. It is essential to be aware of vaccination requirements, travel documents you will need, and travel advisories for countries currently in crisis, such as with the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
Information for Travelers to Canada
If you are planning to visit Canada over the summer of 2022, whether as part of your summer travel plans or to conduct cross-border business, the Canadian Border Services Agency provides updated information on the identifying documents you will need:
For U.S. Citizens: Proof of citizenship, such as a passport, birth certificate, or a certificate of citizenship or naturalization, is required along with photo identification
For Non-U.S. Citizens: Visitors to Canada from other countries must show a valid passport and either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
In addition to personal identification, you must also provide proof that you meet COVID-19 vaccination travel requirements. Along with being free from all COVID-19 symptoms, you must have received at least two doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine, with the second dose at least 14 days before visiting Canada.
International Travel From Canada
Requirements for Canadian citizens engaging in international travel over the summer of 2022 are similar to those for people looking to enter the country. You must provide:
Proof of citizenship;
Proof of identity;
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination status.
If you frequently travel between Canada and the U.S. on cross-border business, you may want to apply for NEXUS. It is a program for travellers who are considered ‘low risk’ and can speed up border crossing.
Summer Travel Tip: Plan Ahead
With pandemic-related travel restrictions lifted, many people are eager to resume international travel. To ensure your summer travel plans go smoothly and prevent time-consuming delays, we recommend the following international summer travel tips:
Make sure to have all required travel documents in place well before your trip;
Use ArriveCan if visiting Canada, which is an app that allows travellers to provide contact and quarantine information digitally;
Consult border time waitlists, which are updated regularly;
If you have any arrests or convictions in your history and have border entry criminal inadmissibility issues, consult a Canadian immigration lawyer about a waiver of inadmissibility;
Visit the Government of Canada website for the latest international travel advisories.
Travel advisories vary based on the destination you plan to visit. Depending on the circumstances in a particular country, an advisory may encourage a general level of caution or recommend avoiding all non-essential crossborder business altogether. In areas currently experiencing crises or conflicts, such as the Ukraine and Russia, travel should be avoided altogether, if possible.
Planning Summer Travel?
Book A Consultation With A Canada Immigration Lawyer
Whether you are planning international travel for pleasure or to conduct cross-border business, get the trusted legal guidance you need from Ackah Business Immigration Law. With over 50 years worth of experience serving clients, we help in ensuring your summer travel plans go seamlessly. Call us or contact our Canada immigration lawyers online to book a consultation today at (403) 452-9515.
