Crossing the Canadian Border in an RV (2023)

Now that the border has been open for some time since COVID, restrictions for crossing the Canadian border in an RV have relaxed…

Land border crossing between Canada and the United States was closed for 19 months during the pandemic & highly restricted shortly after borders reopened.

Crossing the Canadian border by land has been reopened for some now, and Canada has since relaxed their restrictions. They’re now similar to what they were pre-pandemic.

However, there are still some things you need to be aware of that will make your trip to Canada much easier.

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Crossing the Canadian Border After COVID

When Canada reopened its borders, there were specific procedures and documentation (i.e., proof of vaccination) you had to show to ensure the safety of their country. We’ll notate those changes, but also explain the current restrictions as of the writing of this article.

Recommended Use of the ArriveCAN App

Shortly after Canada reopened its borders, it was required to use an app called ArriveCAN to cross the Canadian border. Using this app is no longer required; however, it is highly recommended. Using ArriveCAN saves time at the border and as their official website states, using the ArriveCAN app “only takes minutes.”

ArriveCAN is available for iOS, Android and web. If you’ve already downloaded it, be sure to check for updates before you reach the border or leave for your road trip. The app is free to use. 

You No Longer Need to Prove COVID-19 Vaccination

When the border first reopened, Canada required proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter the country. However, this is no longer the case. The same is true for pre-entry and arrival testing.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination and pre-entry COVID-19 testing is no longer required at the Canadian border.

The government’s website, however, does state “If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you shouldn’t travel to Canada.”

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What Else You Need to Know About Crossing the Canadian Border

Aside from the more recent travel requirements due to COVID, there are still plenty of other things you need to be aware of before you go RVing to Canada.

No Firearms or Fireworks

For one, you cannot bring a firearm (handgun, hunting rifle, etc.) into Canada unless you’ve gone through the (usually lengthy) process to get approval. Canada does not honor your concealed carry permit and trying to take an unapproved firearm into the country can result in serious jail time. The same is true for fireworks or explosives.

Pet Vaccination Records

Secondly, you need to make sure to bring all vaccination records for your pets that are traveling with you. It also helps to bathe your pets before reaching the border if they’ve been playing outdoors a lot because they can deny sickly pets from crossing the border, too. Of course, if your pet is actually sick, then you shouldn’t try to take them across the border.

No Cannabis Products

Third, you cannot take cannabis or any products containing cannabis (including CBD) across the Canadian border in either direction. It doesn’t matter whether it’s legal at your point of entry or exit on either side of the border.

Consent Forms for Children

Fourth, if you’re traveling with children who aren’t your own, even if they are your grandchildren, you need letters of consent from the parents allowing you to take them across the border. If you are a divorced or separated parent with your children, you must bring a letter of consent from the other parent. It’s also a good idea to have a letter authorizing you to seek and consent to medical treatment for each child from the parents.

While those are the most important things to know when crossing the Canadian border, you can check out these additional tips for entering Canada.

More Resources for RVing to Canada

EZBorderCrossing is an excellent source of information about Canadian border crossing procedures. You can also refer to the CBSA website, where you can also check current wait times at the various border crossings and learn more about new restrictions.

Love Canada but want to stay state-side?

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• What to See/Do Around EACH Lake like; Ocqueoc Falls Scenic Site, Les Cheneaux Islands, Antique Boat Museum, and many, many more places including BONUS side trips!
• And good Campgrounds for each Lake (US side) – at least 4 or 5 for EACH Lake! With all the info you need to set up reservations.

Interested? 

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