OTTAWA — Canadians may soon be able to make short trips across the U.S. border without having to provide proof of a negative PCR test for COVID-19 upon return.
Multiple reports cite federal sources as saying the government is preparing to drop the test requirement for trips lasting less than 72 hours.
The announcement is expected Friday, and the change will likely take effect by early December at the latest.
Travellers spending more than three days outside the country will still need to show a negative PCR test when coming home.
The tests can cost as much as $300, although they are available at no charge at some U.S. pharmacies.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce, among other groups, has pressed Ottawa to remove the testing requirement, saying it is unnecessary given existing requirements for vaccinations.
Chamber CEO Perrin Beatty pointed out that an expert task force said decisions related to cross-border travel should be based only on vaccination status.
