Although COVID-19 numbers in Canada and the US have been improving on a daily basis thanks to increased vaccinations, flying, for most people, remains the only way to travel between these two countries.
The US does not require inbound Canadians to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival, but as of January 26, 2021, a negative COVI-19 test is required to board US-bound flights. Importantly, the negative test needs to be a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or an antigen test and it needs to be certified within 72 hours before boarding.
These testing requirements can add a lot of stress to Canadian travellers, as public testing centres are not guaranteed to turn in their results within 72 hours.
For Canadians living in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Vaughan, ON, and Fredericton, NB, one of their best options for rapid and reliable testing is Ichor Blood Services COVID-19 Travel Testing Program. Our 2 testing streams, recognized certification, and quick turnaround ensures that these international travel measures will pose no obstacle to your flight. Book a travel-certified PCR test today at Ichor Blood Services by calling 1-844-424-6728 and catch your flight within 3 days!
How To Fly To TheUS With Ichor Blood Services
Unless you are a dual citizen or an essential worker, you are probably barred from land entry to the US. If you want to visit relatives or engage in business travel or tourism in the US, your best bet is to take a flight.
To be accepted for boarding, you will need to present to the airline negative COVID-19 testing documentation from a recognized institution printed within 72 hours prior to your departure. American Airlines only accepts 2 types of test: a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test or an antigen test. Antibody testing is not accepted.
Public testing centres in Canada do offer approved PCR tests free of charge, but their turnaround time often exceeds 72 hours. A US-bound traveller getting tested from a public facility may very well have to reschedule their flight due to slow processing.
As such, many Canadian travellers seeking peace of mind turn to private institutions for a quicker turnaround. Canadians living in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Vaughan, ON, and Fredericton, NB, may consider Ichor Blood Services for their COVID-19 travel testing needs.
Our COVID-19 Travel Testing Program offers:
- Recognized PCR tests: Every American airline recognizes our PCR tests. If you are testing with Ichor Blood Services, make sure to specify that you are travelling to the US, as we also offer antibody tests that airlines do not accept.
- Rapid turnaround: Your test result is usually returned to you within 12 to 48 hours. You should still allow a 72-hour buffer, however.
- Dual-stream testing: In addition to conventional in-clinic testing, we also offer virtual or remote PCR testing. How it works:
- Grab a COVID-19 testing kit.
- Connect to a health practitioner via video conferencing.
- Follow their instructions as you administer the test to yourself.
- Contact our courier service to have your test picked up.
- Your test results are returned to you within 72 hours.
Whether you opt for in-clinic or virtual testing, Ichor Blood Services is sure to get you to your US destination on time and without any complications.
Reliable COVID-19 Travel Testing
The most hassle-free way of flying to the US is to get tested with a private clinic. The peace of mind of knowing that you will get your test results within 72 hours is often worth the cost. If you reside in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Vaughan, ON, and Fredericton, NB, and are planning to travel to the US this summer, book a PCR test at Ichor Blood Services by calling 1-844-424-6728 or check out the cities we serve. Our swift turnaround, combined with our virtual testing option, is sure to please even the busiest traveller!
FAQs
Do American airlines accept antibody tests?
No. American airlines currently only accept PCR and antigen tests.
Can I travel to the US by land?
You can travel to the US by land if you are a dual citizen or an essential worker. Otherwise, you may be turned away by the US Customs and Border Protection.
How much do COVID-19 travel tests cost at Ichor Blood Services?
Our PCR tests are $150. Our antigen tests are $75.
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