Discussions

I'm excited the US is finally opening the border so I can run across to Border Services. From what I understand Canada still requires a negative Covid upon return and I've read that I can take a test here before going down as long as it's within 72 hours. A "molecular test" is required. I think that's the PCR test. Anyone know the cheapest option to get a PCR test done in Brandon with results in a couple of days?

There's been a few threads about this recently. I believe the only local to offer is Elite Safety Services and it's approx $300. There are other options in Winnipeg including antigen testing, but I'm pretty sure PCR is what's required for entry to Canada.

I am just wondering what happens as a Canadian Citizen if you can not or don’t get a covid test and show up at the Canadian border. As a Canadian Citizen they can not deny you entry into your oun county.

In Wpg we had good experience with Pure Lifestyle https://www.purewinnipeg.com/covid-19-testing/  
 
Their Antigen test is quick and they send you results within an hour. Cost is $169 plus tax. Antigen test is good for entering US.  
 
PCR is $450 plus tax, US will accept either PCR or AntiGen test.  
 
Canada will not accept AntiGen test, I was told Safeway or other drive in pharmacy will test you in the US, not sure if you'd have to cover the cost, prob yes.

No test needed to enter the USA. But Canada needs it to return. I wonder if Canada will drop that requirement to be like the US?

According to the government website, you may be fined up to $5,000 and be required to stay in a quarantine hotel. You may also be required to take a test right then and there.  
 
https://travel.gc.ca/travel-covid/travel-restrictions/flying-canada-checklist/covid-19-testing-travellers-coming-into-canada  
 
But you are correct, citizens cannot be turned away.

The reason I asked is because right now some places in the States ,they won’t do travel tests do to the shortage of tests available due to the surge in cases

I can see that might be a possibility depending on your US destination. The hazards of travelling in the age of Covid, I suppose.  
 
It's important to note that if you're going for a short visit, say an overnight or 48 hours, it is permissible to get your test in Canada prior to departing. As long as it's no more than 72 hours prior to you presenting yourself at the border.

You're way better to get a pcr test in the states. Walgreens offers them for around $30 as do lots of doctors clinics. Just call ahead and find somewhere. So much cheaper than ANYWHERE in Canada. My family and I are Americans and have been going down to the states regularly since July 21st and have never paid more than 40 for a test. The Canadian prices are ridiculous.

US still required negative test in order to be admitted to the US without quarantining.

Nope, US never required that for land travel and is not planning to now. you're thinking of air travel.

I hardly think Canada is emulating the U.S. in regards to requirements.

Already answered.  
 
Edited by Gussins, 2021-10-14 21:16:09

I am confused  
Canadian need to have PCR test results when entering to Canada not when leaving Canada. Is that correct?  
So when leaving Canada and we are fully vaccinated, we do not need to have test done unless we will be entering to a country that need PCR.  
Am I corrent on above?  
 
Edited by Deb1, 2021-10-14 21:51:52

I am confused  
Canadian need to have PCR test results when entering to Canada not when leaving Canada. Is that correct?  
So when leaving Canada and we are fully vaccinated, we do not need to have test done unless we will be entering to a country that need PCR results.  
Am I corrent on above?  
 
Edited by Deb1, 2021-10-14 21:52:21

Nothing but a money grab. Prices for these tests in Canada is outrageous. But regardless here is a link to all the info you need regarding travel by air or land.  
 
https://www.ydeals.com/  
 
(ywgdeals.com also a great site for travel deals if you have any money left after testing)

Forgive me but I thought that these measures were put in place to reduce spread of covid infection and protect lives.  
Plus while we can travel somewhat more freely now, health Canada advises that we only travel if absolutely necessary.

Terry7 said "US still required negative test in order to be admitted to the US without quarantining. "  
Nope, US never required that for land travel and is not planning to now. you're thinking of air travel.  
 
Albertagirl you are right, this is required for air travel.  
 
Edited by Terry7, 2021-10-15 09:48:30

So the challenge is to find somewhere in N. Dakota to get a pcr test close to our border, assuming it's way cheaper there.

They can’t deny you but they can and have given $5000 tickets for not having the test

My dual citizen family were there a few weeks ago. Only place you can get it done with safe turnaround times is at places like Walgreens in Fargo or GF. Most clinics stopped travel testing due to demands for non travel testing.