The Biden administration is reopening America's land borders early next month, allowing most foreign travelers to enter the U.S., as long as they are fully vaccinated.
The move ends a 19-month travel freeze — and gives a lifeline to businesses and separated families across North America.
The border closure has been devastating for tourism. Billions of dollars have been lost in Niagara Falls, Canada.
The border remains closed to undocumented migrants. But U.S. Border agents will accept proof of full vaccinations for legal travelers from any of the shots approved by the World Health Organization.
That's more likely to benefit Canadians. Seventy-two percent of them are fully vaccinated, compared to only 38% of Mexicans.
At first, the vaccine mandate will only apply to travelers considered nonessential, like tourists.
But come January, the vaccine requirement will also extend to people like truckers crossing to the U.S. for essential reasons.
The U.S. is also slated to lift restrictions next month for foreign air travelers from Europe and elsewhere.
Those travelers will also need to be fully vaccinated and they'll need to present a negative COVID-19 test.
No such tests will be required for those crossing the border by land.
