Originally Posted by
iahphx
Does anyone know anything about the mandatory random Covid testing at Canadian LAND borders? I last crossed the USA-Canada border in October, back when they required mandatory pre-arrival testing. I saw that they were still randoming pulling over people for an additional test, and I understand this program is NOT paused. Is there a way to game NOT being selected? Are some border crossings more like to test than others, or are there certain times for testing? I'm crossing again next week and, obviously, I don't want any of this random hassle.
BTW, do any of the Provinces still require visitors to register?
From the Government of Canada website:
"In addition, the pause of mandatory random testing will continue at all airports until mid-July, for travellers who qualify as fully vaccinated. The pause was put in place on June 11, 2022, and is allowing airports to focus on streamlining their operations, while the Government of Canada moves forward with its planned move of COVID-19 testing for air travellers outside of airports to select test provider stores, pharmacies, or by virtual appointment.
Mandatory random testing continues at land border points of entry, with no changes."
Unfortunately you are correct. We crossed at Lewiston/Queenston last week in a long lineup and about 50% of Canadian plates were pulled over to the yellow light area for secondaries of some sort, and about one in five US plates, based on 30 minutes or so of direct observation. That was the main reason for the back-up. We lucked into a shift change right before our turn and were waved through - possibly just because the holding area was full to overflowing.