The Canada-US Border Could Fully Reopen By July Says One US Congressman

If you were hoping to cross the Canada-U.S. border for discretionary reasons this summer, there could be good news ahead.

As President Joe Biden and Justin Trudeau met as leaders for the first time via video call on Tuesday, one U.S. congressman revealed that he “hopes” border restrictions will ease-off starting in May.

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We can come up with a plan that will give some people hope about being able to cross the border. Brian Higgins

Congressman Brian Higgins told Power & Politics that some travel restrictions should be lifted “almost immediately,” particularly for those in cross-border relationships, those with family on the other side of the border and those who own property on either side.

He explained, “I would hope that, at least by Memorial Day (May 31), we would see a partial opening — meaning an expansion of the category of ‘essential traveller.’”

Higgins went on to say that he thinks fully reopening the Canada-U.S. border by July 4 is “doable,” thanks to the COVID-19 vaccine supplies in both countries.

“I think with good relations between our president and [Canada’s] prime minister, we can come up with a plan that will give some people hope about being able to travel across the border,” he continued.

Even if all Canadians are not vaccinated by this time, Higgins said the United States would be “helpful to Canada.”

He suggested a “mutual agreement” between both countries and the World Health Organization to accelerate the distribution of vaccines within Canada.

“I think where there’s a will, there’s a way, and these are two leaders who can get that done,” Higgins concluded.

Despite the congressman’s confidence, neither Trudeau nor Biden have spoken publicly about any plans to reopen the border following their meeting on Tuesday afternoon.