Traveling to Canada during the COVID Pandemic

I went to visit my brother who lives in Toronto after 2.5 years! I was only there for a few days, but it was so great to see family and take an international trip.

How did you enter the country?

Air

Did you have to show proof of vaccination while visiting the country? For example, when going in and out of tourist attractions, restaurants, etc.

Yes, I had to show proof of vaccination when indoor dining.

Was this destination crowded with visitors or empty?

It was starting to get crowded again. The trains were not at full capacity during rush hour, but there were a lot of people on it.

How did you enter this country? (ie land, sea, flight) Are there any specific restrictions or regulations when entering via those means?

I entered by flight. I had to show proof of vaccination (in order to avoid the quarantine), and proof of a negative PCR or other molecular COVID-19 test taken in the last 72 hours.

Did you need to wear a mask inside restaurants, attractions, or public transportation? If you were able to choose, did you feel comfortable wearing or not wearing a mask?

Masks were required to enter public buildings and restaurants. Once you were seated, then you could remove your mask.

If needed, were COVID tests easy to find and book? (Especially before your return or onward flight)

I was able to take both tests within the United States because I was in Canada for less than 72 hours. I heard that it was a bit more difficult and expensive to find a testing site in Canada.

Did the country adapt physical distancing in day-to-day situations? How did you experience this as a traveler?

There were signs on the floor at many locations. I did not notice much physical distancing in the airports.

Did restaurants, businesses, and public services take sanitary precautions that you noticed?

Yes, many were more spaced out or had physical barriers between tables.

Did the local government ask for travel or health insurance when you arrived?

No.

Tell us about your experience when entering the country. Were there any challenges with customs, immigration, or the health authorities related to COVID?

I just had to fill out the ArriveCAN form where you upload your travel details, vaccination information, COVID-19 test results, and address for quarantine (if needed) within 72 hours of departure.

Were there additional requirements to travel around the country? For example, did you need to take a COVID test to go from one state/province to the other?

I don't believe so.

Were most attractions open? Were you able to visit the ones you wanted to attend?

I believe most attractions are open, especially those that are outdoors.

Anything else fellow travelers should know about your trip?

It was great to be abroad and to see family, even if it was for such a short time! Can't wait for more international trips soon.