In its first clear indication that Washington is preparing to ease travel restrictions, the White House says most foreign nationals will have to be fully immunized in order to enter the U.S.

What is still not clear however, is how this policy will impact travel at the Canada-U.S. land border, where non-essential visitors continue to be prohibited from crossing.

In fact that is being extended another 30-days until October 21.

The other question is if Canadians who received the AstraZeneca vaccine, which has not been approved for use in the U.S., will be considered acceptable.

The new rules will apply to air travel and require passengers to show proof of vaccination and a negative COVID test taken at least 72-hours prior to boarding. 

New York Congressman Brian Higgins, whose district includes Buffalo, is one of the most vocal critics of travel restrictions with Canada.

He says it’s long past time his country began permitting recreational visits from Canada.

”It is welcome news that the White House is making progress on reciprocating international public health measures to protect air travellers,” Higgins said in a statement.

”Yet it is inexplicable that no announcement on easing travel restrictions at land ports of entry is being made today since the livelihoods of communities across the norther border depend on cross-border commerce.”