As part of its sweeping efforts to address the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada requires every individual who is granted entry to Canada, regardless of nationality or county of origin, to self-quarantine for 14 days, with very limited exceptions.
The most crucial aspect is to have a plan. Every person entering Canada will be asked questions by a screening officer, quarantine officer or other public health official and must demonstrate that they have a robust plan to quarantine for 14 days. The word “quarantine” is defined as the separation of persons entering Canada from others in such a manner as to prevent the possible spread of infection or contamination.
Any person may be denied entry to Canada if they are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms. A person may leave Canada before the expiry of the 14-day quarantine period provided they continue to quarantine themselves until they depart from Canada and wear a non-medical mask or face covering while in transit. There are limited categories of people exempt from the quarantine requirement.
Individuals who fail to follow their quarantine plan may face a fine of $750,000 CAD or 6 months of prison time, or both. Foreign nationals may additionally be found inadmissible, removed from Canada and banned from entering for one year if they do not comply with their quarantine plan.
Given the above, it is critical to prepare in advance when travelling to Canada to make sure that you meet the quarantine requirements. We recommend contacting our office for assistance.
