July 19, 2021 (OTTAWA, ON) – The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) welcomes today’s announcement on upcoming changes to Canada’s current border closures and restrictions. TIAC is heartened by this news for tourism businesses across the country. 

 

Beginning August 9 at 12:01 am EDT, Canada’s border will reopen to fully vaccinated travellers from the United States – citizens and permanent residents who are currently residing in the United States. Pre arrival testing requirements are still in place. 

 

“TIAC has been tirelessly advocating for a science-based plan for reopening our borders and restarting our visitor economy,” said Beth Potter, President & CEO of TIAC, “While it is important for Canadians to travel in Canada first as restrictions ease to support our domestic industry, international tourism is crucial to stimulating international trade and foreign investment.” 

 

On September 7, based on the epidemiologic situation, the government also announced that Canada’s borders will open to fully vaccinated international travellers with a Government of Canada approved vaccine, who meet Canada’s specific entry requirements.

 

There will be no changes to mandatory testing requirements for unvaccinated travellers.

 

“We are pleased that the federal government has communicated an evidence-based plan to reopen the borders and restart travel. We are delighted to hear the start of this phased approach today,” continued Potter.

 

In addition, international passenger flights will now be allowed to land at five additional Canadian airports. TIAC is encouraged to hear that further conversations are to be had with additional airports as international travel levels increase. The three-night government authorized hotel stay requirement will be eliminated for all air travellers as of 12:01am EDT on August 9.

 

While the industry is pleased with this news, equally important is the need for federal leadership on travel within Canada. Canadians should be able to freely travel across our country, avoiding 13 different travel policies that differ in each province and territory.  

 

“Today’s announcement is very welcome news. However, at the right time, we need to eliminate the requirement of a PCR test for fully vaccinated travellers as it is not supported by science. We also need elected leaders to build public confidence in travel and to understand that tourism businesses are prepared to offer experiences following all of the necessary health and hygiene protocols. The tourism economy is ready to welcome visitors back. We look to our governments to shift to this message as things evolve,” concluded Potter.