travel canada covid requirements

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Canada's new travel rules explained

Ottawa continues to face pressure to drop its pre-arrival test requirement.

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Canada is easing several travel measures on Monday for people entering the country.

But some rules remain, including the pre-arrival COVID-19 test requirement, which means returning home from abroad can still be complicated and costly. 

Here's what you need to know if you have upcoming travel plans.

You can now take a rapid antigen test

For the past year, the federal government has required that travellers entering Canada show proof of a negative molecular test, such as a PCR, taken within 72 hours of their departing flight or planned arrival at the land border. 

Starting Monday, people can opt to instead take a rapid antigen test, which is typically cheaper (generally under $100) and more convenient, as results are available within minutes.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) confirmed on Friday that the antigen test must be taken no more than one day before a traveller's departing flight or planned arrival at the land border. 

People must take the test outside Canada and can only use one authorized for travellers.

"It can't be the take-home tests that we've seen here in our communities," said Denis Vinette, vice-president of the CBSA's Travellers Branch. "It has to be done through a lab that will give you then the [written] confirmation that you are either negative or positive."

Calls to drop pre-arrival test

Despite offering a potentially cheaper option, the government still faces pressure to drop all pre-arrival testing. 

"It's so ridiculous," said Dave Swidler, of Mont-Tremblant, Que., who's set to fly home from the Hawaiian island of Kauai on March 14.

"Somebody who has had three vaccines and wears a mask and doesn't take chances, making me take a test to come home and making me stress about it — why are they doing that?"

On Friday, several border-town mayors on both sides of the Canada-U.S. border held a news conference , calling for an end to all pre-arrival testing at the land border for fully vaccinated travellers. 

Even when getting an antigen test, "you still have to go through the hassle of clicking the box, making the appointment, finding a pharmacy that is available," Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens said at the news conference.

"The need for testing at the land border is long over."

• Southwestern Ontario border mayors, groups call for end to COVID-19 testing at land crossings

Several medical experts also say Ottawa should drop pre-arrival testing, arguing it's pointless now that Omicron has spread across Canada. 

But the government says further easing of border measures will only come when pandemic conditions improve. 

"We must continue to exercise prudence," Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos said last week. "Our fight against the virus is not over."

What happens if I test positive?

The government has not eased rules for travellers who test positive while abroad.

Those travellers must wait at least 10 full days after they took their test before entering Canada. Infected Canadians won't be turned away at a land border, but may face fines of up to $5,000 for defying the rules. 

"There is still the risk — the real risk — of becoming sick while abroad and having to extend your trip, should you test positive for COVID-19," Duclos said, speaking in French. 

Calls to drop all COVID-19 testing requirements for travel

People who recently recovered from COVID-19  don't have to take a pre-arrival test  — if they provide proof of a positive molecular test taken at least 10 days and no more than 180 days before entering Canada.

"The PCR molecular test remains the gold standard," said Vinette. "In order to be able to re-enter [and] demonstrate the positive outcome of your test, you'll need the molecular test."

That means travellers abroad who test positive with an antigen test could face complications. They must get a second test to return home and if they opt for another antigen test, the results must be negative.

Norm Chew, of Toronto, had hoped Canada would drop its pre-arrival test requirement. Because that didn't happen, he says he'll likely cancel his family's spring break ski trip to Vermont, due to fears of testing positive.

"If we're positive, we have to stay out for 10 days, otherwise we could face the fine," said Chew, who had planned to drive to Vermont. "Ten days in a hotel with four of us sick, no thanks."

Other rules

Also starting Monday, unvaccinated children under the age of 12 entering Canada with fully vaccinated parents will no longer have to avoid schools, daycare or other crowded settings for 14 days.

• Travel agencies flooded with requests after Ottawa says it will drop pre-arrival PCR test for travellers

And fully vaccinated travellers randomly selected to be tested upon arrival won't have to quarantine while awaiting their test results.

Finally, Canada has lifted its advisory against non-essential international travel. Although the advisory was in place for most of the pandemic, millions of Canadians still chose to travel abroad. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Business reporter

Based in Toronto, Sophia Harris covers consumer and business for CBC News web, radio and TV. She previously worked as a CBC videojournalist in the Maritimes where she won an Atlantic Journalism Award for her work. Contact: [email protected]

• @sophiaharrisCBC

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COVID-19 guidance for travelers

Last updated: October 5, 2022

Traveling looks a bit different these days! Before you embark on your next trip, prepare by referring to the curated resources below -- one for pre-trip planning and one for when you're ready for takeoff. As these resources are from official government agencies, please note that we have simply compiled them in one place for ease of reference and that they are only available in English and French.

Latest Update: As of October 1, 2022, all COVID-19 travel and border measures External Link Title have been removed. For the latest information on travel to Canada, please visit the Government of Canada website External Link Title . Though we make every effort to update this checklist routinely, travel regulations and/or restrictions are continually changing and there may be delays in immediate updates. This checklist is designed as a place to start, not a definitive source.

• Check that your passport is up to date. Click here External Link Title to learn more about required documentation when entering Canada.
• Review the current travel restrictions External Link Title before booking your flight, transport, accommodation and/or other activities.
• Don't travel if you are sick or are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19.
• Ensure you have everything needed for your flight or mode of transport. For updated requirements of what's required of travelers onboard flights, click here External Link Title .
• If flying, check your flight status and plan for additional time at the airport -- refer to your air carrier or airport recommendations.
• You're all set! We can't wait to welcome you soon. To get inspired for your adventure ahead, check out some of our favorite videos External Link Title .

Prevention and planning

The Public Health Agency of Canada External Link Title (PHAC) is actively monitoring COVID-19 (coronavirus). You can find preventative information here External Link Title on the PHAC's website or call the Health Canada COVID-19 information line at 1-833-784-4397 for further information.

Travel advisory

• Travelers are encouraged to read the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) travel health notices here External Link Title .
• For the latest official government of Canada updates on travel restrictions, please visit the PHAC website External Link Title .

Flights and border services

For everything you need to know to prepare for a worry-free flight to or in Canada, please visit the Government of Canada website External Link Title . This resource includes information about airports, requirements and more.

Stay informed

• Call the Health Canada COVID-19 information line: 1-833-784-4397 . Interpretation services are available in multiple languages. Or email: [email protected]
• Visit the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC)'s website External Link Title for the latest update on COVID-19.
• Follow Canada's Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Theresa Tam, on Twitter: @CPHO_Canada External Link Title

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COVID-19: Travel, testing and borders

Return or travel to canada.

For all travellers entering Canada by air, land or marine mode:

• Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not required
• Pre-board testing is not required
• COVID-19 pre-entry and arrival tests are not required
• Quarantine after you enter Canada is not required
• to save time at the border, you can use Advance Declaration in ArriveCAN to submit your customs and immigration declaration before flying into Canada
• Pre-boarding tests for cruise passengers are not required
• As always, travel documents are required
• Health checks to board planes and trains are not required
• It's strongly recommended that you wear a well-constructed and well-fitted mask or respirator while you travel

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 , you shouldn't travel to Canada.

If you feel sick or experience any symptoms of COVID-19 during your travel to Canada or upon arrival, you should:

• inform the flight attendant, cruise staff or a border services officer upon arrival. You may be referred to a Quarantine Officer for a health assessment and further direction.
• avoid taking public transportation
• check provincial or territorial requirements for what you need to do if you’re symptomatic or have tested positive for COVID-19

Travelling in and out of Canada

• International travel advice and advisories
• COVID-19 and international travel
• Proof of vaccination
• Find out if you need a visa

Wearing masks on planes and trains in Canada is not required.

• It's still strongly recommended that you wear a high quality and well-fitted mask or respirator while you travel

Situation in Canada

• COVID-19 guidance, vaccines, limiting the spread
• Summary data about travellers, testing and compliance

The Government of Canada will continue to monitor the situation. See the COVID-19 border measures backgrounder .

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I am an American citizen. What do I need to enter Canada?

American citizens, including American-Canadian citizens, must carry proper identification and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada . You do not need a Canadian passport, a Canadian visa or an eTA to enter Canada if you are travelling with a valid U.S. passport.

New entry requirement now in effect

Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens , and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.

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Glossary term

• Admissibility

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Canada set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Canada.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Canada, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from Canada, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport. 

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through Canada, most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization ( eTA ) – not both.

Check if you need a visa or an eTA online .

You do not need a visa for short visits (normally up to 6 months). You may need an eTA instead.

You do not need an eTA , if you are:

• arriving by land and sea – you must have acceptable travel documents and ID
• a British-Canadian dual national – you must have a valid Canadian passport

See Canada’s entry requirements for full details of eTA and visa requirements.

Contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK if you are unsure about visa requirements or your eligibility to enter the country, for example, if you have a criminal record or have been arrested.

Checks at border control

Canadian border officials may ask you to show a return or onward ticket and proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay, even if you are staying with family or friends.

Visas for permanent residence, study or work

See information on visas for permanent residence, study or work in Canada .  

Transiting through Canada

If you are travelling through Canada (transiting) by air, you must have an eTA or a transit visa.     

If you have questions, contact:

• your airline
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
• your nearest Canadian high commission, embassy or consulate

Find out more about transiting Canada .

Visa and eTA scams

Some unauthorised websites charge for submitting visa applications. These websites are not associated with the Canadian government.

You can check your eTA status online with the Canadian government . If it has been 72 hours since you applied, and you have not received confirmation of your application, complete an enquiry form .   

Travelling with children

If a child travels alone or with only one parent or legal guardian, they should carry a letter of consent from the non-travelling parents or guardians. Immigration officers have the right to question children using simple and appropriate language to see if there are any concerns about child abduction.

For more information, check with the Canadian High Commission in the UK or the Canada Border Services Agency .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Canada guide . 

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be taken into and out of Canada . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

The Canadian authorities will confiscate banned food products and you could get a fine. For more information, see importing food, plants or animals to Canada .

If you visit a farm or have contact with wild animals before entering Canada, and plan to visit a farm during your stay, you must declare this on your Customs Declaration Card. For more information, see biosecurity at the Canadian border .

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Government of Canada extends quarantine measures and travel restrictions

From: Public Health Agency of Canada

News release

Today, the Government of Canada is extending the temporary travel measures restricting entry into Canada by foreign nationals until June 21, 2021.

May 21, 2021 | Ottawa Public | Health Agency of Canada

The Government of Canada takes a prudent and responsible approach at the border, by continually monitoring and reviewing available data and scientific evidence to protect the health and safety of Canadians.

Today, the Government of Canada is extending the temporary travel measures restricting entry into Canada by foreign nationals until June 21, 2021. To continue managing the elevated risk of imported COVID-19 cases into Canada, the Government of Canada has extended the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) restricting all direct commercial and private passenger flights to Canada from India and Pakistan until June 21, 2021 at 23:59 EDT. The government is also extending the requirement for air passengers who depart India or Pakistan to Canada, via an indirect route, to obtain a COVID-19 pre-departure test from a third country before continuing their journey to Canada.

Canada's approach to border management includes entry and flight restrictions; mandatory pre-arrival, on-arrival, and post-arrival testing requirements; mandatory hotel stopover for air travellers; and mandatory 14-day quarantine for travellers. The Government of Canada is also extending those measures to protect the health and safety of Canadians.

As the science and evidence evolve and knowledge of the virus and variants increases, the policies to keep Canadians safe will evolve as well. Current data shows that Canada's pre-arrival, on-arrival, and post-arrival testing requirements, as well as mandatory hotel stay for air travellers, are working. The Government of Canada's response will continue to prioritize protecting the health and safety of Canadians, while also ensuring the safe flow of goods and services that are necessary for the Canadian economy.

“ As the number of COVID-19 cases remain disproportionally high in India and Pakistan, we have extended our flight restrictions and third country pre-departure testing requirements for these countries. These ongoing measures are in place to help protect Canadians, and manage the elevated risk of imported cases of COVID-19 and variants of concern into Canada during a time of increasing pressure on our health care system.” The Honourable Omar Alghabra Minister of Transport

“We are extending the testing and quarantine measures at the border because they protect Canadians. As our health care system grapples with the third wave of the pandemic, our government will continue to adjust its response to COVID-19. I encourage all Canadians to get vaccinated when it’s their turn, and to keep following local public health measures.” The Honourable Patty Hajdu Minister of Health

“Throughout the pandemic, we have taken strong action at our borders to protect Canadians while maintaining the flow of essential goods. We will continue to prioritize the health and safety of Canadians as we adapt to the changing reality of the pandemic.” The Honourable Bill Blair Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Quick facts

To address unique situations along the Canada-U.S. border, residents of Alaska who transit through Yukon by car to get to another part of Alaska, and residents of Northwest Angle, Minnesota, travelling by car through Canada to mainland U.S., will be exempt from pre- and post-arrival testing

Travellers must continue to use ArriveCAN to provide COVID-related information, but must enter it within 72 hours prior to their arrival to Canada. In addition, travellers must submit their travel history for the 14 days before entering Canada. This information will help identify and monitor countries with high importation rates of COVID-19 and variants of concern. 

Positivity rates for those arriving by air (1.7%) and land (0.3%) remain very low. The measures have resulted in 96% less air traffic and a 90% drop in non-commercial traffic entering Canada by land, compared to pre-pandemic volumes.

All travellers entering Canada must submit their information, including details of their 14-day travel history, electronically using ArriveCAN. This information must be entered into ArriveCAN within 72 hours before a travellers’ arrival to Canada to ensure accuracy and to help monitor importation of COVID-19

Violating any quarantine or isolation instructions provided to travellers by a screening officer or quarantine officer when entering Canada is an offence under the Quarantine Act and could lead to series penalties, including 6 months in prison and/or $750,000 in fines.

The Government of Canada currently contacts more than 5,500 travellers each day through live-agent or interactive automated phone calls, which verify their compliance with the mandatory isolation order. 

As of May 18, 2021, 97% of the 90,044 interventions by law enforcement have resulted in compliance by travellers. However, in a minority of cases, verbal warnings, written warnings, tickets, and charges have been issued.

As of May 20, 2021, there have been 1,577 reported contraventions tickets issued for offences under the Quarantine Act .

Associated links

• COVID-19: Travel, testing, quarantine and borders
• COVID-19: Summary data about travellers, testing and compliance
• COVID-19 measures, updates, and guidance for aviation

Cole Davidson Office of the Honourable Patty Hajdu Minister of Health 613-957-0200

Media Relations Public Health Agency of Canada 613-957-2983 [email protected]

Public Inquiries: 613-957-2991 1-866-225-0709

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