Nearly half of Canadians think the world’s longest frontier should stay closed until at least September.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his government started planning for the Canada-U.S. border to reopen, but Canadians are in no hurry.
Over three quarters of Canadians also agree that whenever the border reopens, travelers to Canada should show proof of vaccination.
This means that most Canadians are still concerned about the potential spread of COVID-19.
Trudeau said in a press briefing on May 25 that over half of Canada’s population received the first dose of the COVID-19 virus.
He has previously suggested that the border will reopen when at least 75 per cent of Canadians are vaccinated.
Many provinces, including Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia, are planning for a steady reopening.
“There are lots of reasons to be hopeful but that doesn’t mean we can let our guard down yet,” he said.
Canada’s accelerating vaccine campaign is a main reason for why the government is receiving calls for reopening the border.
Restrictions are currently in place until June 21. Exempt travelers who wish to come to Canada before the restrictions are lifted need to follow certain procedures.
Travelers still need to complete their 14-day quarantine requirement. The three-day hotel stay can count towards your quarantine period. On day eight, you will need to take a third COVID-19 test.
Those travelling to Canada for an essential reason do not need to quarantine. This includes emergency service providers, truck drivers, and those who live in a trans-border community who regularly cross the border for work.
