The U.S. will reopen its land borders to nonessential travel next month, ending a 19-month freeze due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the country moves to require all international visitors to be vaccinated against the coronavirus.

The change would allow visitors from Canada and Mexico to cross the border through land or ferry ports for the first time since March 2020.

There will be two phases to the reopening.

The first phase will go into effect early next month to coincide with the country's updated international air travel system. Under phase 1, fully vaccinated travelers can enter the U.S. for nonessential reasons like tourism or visiting family and friends. Unvaccinated travelers can travel to the U.S. for only essential purposes.

The second phase will begin in early January. Under phase 2, travelers can cross the land border for both essential and nonessential reasons only if they have been fully vaccinated.

Travelers must show proof of vaccination.

Officials say testing requirements will not be a part of either phases.

Officials say the phased approach will provide ample time for essential travelers like truckers to get vaccinated.

Currently, U.S. land borders are only open to essential travel.

The restrictions which were set to end next week will be extended until the new policy takes effect.