The federal government has announced new, major changes to border measures for fully-vaccinated Canadians.
Starting April 1st, fully-vaccinated travellers arriving to Canada by land, air or water will no longer be required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
Until then, fully-vaccinated travellers will still need to be prepared to show a valid pre-entry test.
In February, the federal government announced fully-vaccinated travellers would no longer be required to take a molecular test, such as a PCR test, in order to enter the country.
Instead, travellers could opt for a rapid antigen test, a less expensive option that provides a quicker result than a molecular test.
See more: Fully-vaccinated travellers re-entering Canada will no longer have to take a COVID-19 PCR test
“Today’s announcement by the federal government is excellent news for the entire travel and tourism industry, which are important contributors to the Canadian economy,” said David Rheault, Vice-President, Government and Community Relations at Air Canada.
“People are eager to travel and reconnect with their loved ones, and the end of pre-departure testing will provide travellers with more certainty, allowing them to plan their next trip with more confidence and without the worry of incurring additional costs.”
“Canada now joins other countries around the world in reopening and we look ahead to the summer travel season. The removal of pre-departure testing requirements will continue to accelerate and stimulate the recovery of Canada’s travel and tourism industry, which we are committed to help rebuild through the restoration of our global network.”
Although the federal government is removing the pre-arrival test requirement, passengers may still be subjected to random PCR testing at the airport.
Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travellers will also still face pre-entry, on-arrival testing and quarantine requirements.
All travellers will also be required to use the ArriveCAN app or online form to provide proof of vaccination and other required information within 72 hours before their arrival in Canada.
As for the potential of lifting the requirement to be fully-vaccinated in order to board federally regulated air, rail and marine transportation, there is no indication of changes at this time.
For up to date information on travelling requirements you can visit Canada’s COVID-19 testing for travellers page.
