Osoyoos is one of three border crossings in B.C. that will allow for Americans to cross on their way to Alaska.
Image Credit: Wikimediacommons
July 30, 2020 - 12:00 PM
Americans passing through Canada to Alaska will have to show a “hang tag” in their cars and wear masks when outside their vehicles.
The new rules were imposed today, July 30, by the Canada Border Services Agency and take effect first thing tomorrow morning.
It comes after numerous reports of Americans using Alaska as a loophole to enter the country for vacation. Several people have been fined in recent days and likely led to the policy changes.
People can still only come as essential travellers, not for recreation or tourism.
They can only enter through three border crossings in B.C. – Abbotsford-Huntingdon, Kingsgate and Osoyoos. Two other crossing points are allowed in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
When they cross they will be given a “hang tag” that has to be attached to the rear view mirror for the entire trip, which must be made in the most direct way possible with no stops in places like national parks for sightseeing.
The tag will include the date the traveller must exit Canada and other conditions of entry.
Only essential stops are allowed to do things like use washrooms, refuel or buy essential supplies. They must report to a Canada Border Services office when leaving the country.
They have to wear masks at all times except when they are alone or with family members inside their own vehicle.
These changes are coming after the RCMP are reported to have ticketed six Americans for violating Canada’s Quarantine Act while travelling in B.C. Police did not say where or when this happened.
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