Ottawa is easing a major COVID-19 restriction on travel into Canada. Federal officials have announced that, as of April 1, fully vaccinated travelers entering Canada will not have to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
The move is something the travel and tourism industry has been calling for, saying the requirement is no longer justified by the science and is an extra financial burden on travelers.
The announcement came from Canada’s health minister, Jean Yves Duclos.
“Fully vaccinated travelers may still be required to undergo random testing upon entry to Canada, but they are no longer required to quarantine while awaiting their results," he said. "Unvaccinated and partially vaccinated travelers will continue to be tested with COVID-19 molecular tests on arrival.”
Tune in live. I'm alongside Ministers @OmarAlghabra, and @R_Boissonnault, to provide an update on COVID-19 #border measures.https://t.co/XPyIHzCFfF
— Jean-Yves Duclos (@jyduclos) March 17, 2022
Duclos said, while the decision is encouraging, federal health officials will continue to monitor COVID-19 and changes to travel requirements could come as the situation evolves and the need arises.
Other pandemic travel rules will still apply. The random PCR testing at airports is in part to watch for new emerging variants of COVID-19. Travelers also must still use the ArriveCAN app to enter proof of vaccination and other required details. Those who don’t use the app may have to test upon arrival and quarantine for 14 days.
Until April 1, fully vaccinated travelers will still have to show proof of negative rapid antigen test taken no more than one day before arriving in Canada, or a molecular test taken 72 hours before a scheduled flight or crossing at a land border.