The U.S. – Canada border stays closed until at least October 21

According to White House officials, the land border between the United States and Canada will remain closed for the non-essential travel of Canadians into the U.S. until at least October 21.

President Joe Biden announced he will ease restrictions on foreign travelers flying into the U.S. in November when they will be required to show proof of vaccination to enter the country.

In August Canada began allowing U.S. travelers into the country.

The U.S. has not yet done the same for Canadians.

On Monday Congressman Brian Higgins released this statement:

“Continued closure of the U.S. border to vaccinated Canadians is completely unnecessary and unexplained.”

“It is welcome news that the White House is making progress on reciprocating international public health measures to protect air travelers. Yet it is inexplicable that no announcement on easing travel restrictions at land ports of entry is being made today since the livelihoods of communities across the Northern Border depend on cross-border commerce.”

“Canada’s unilateral action to allow Americans to cross the border beginning in August demonstrated what we already knew: vaccines were the turning point that makes reopening the border possible. This was substantial progress in our fight to reconnect with our Canadian neighbors, but we need action on the U.S. side. Canada opened its land crossings successfully and the United States should be acting today to do the same.”

Higgins represents New York’s 26th district, which includes the cities of Buffalo and Niagara Falls and borders southern Ontario.

The U.S.-Canada border was first closed to non-essential travel in March 2020 and has remained closed for 18 months.