Updates from the Border
On November 19, 2021, the Government of Canada announced upcoming adjustments being made to Canada’s COVID-19 border measures. If you are travelling to Canada, or are a Canadian travelling abroad, here is what to expect:
- Effective November 30th, 2021, fully vaccinated individuals with the right of entry to Canada that depart and re-enter Canada within 72 hours will NOT have to present a pre-entry molecular test. This exemption is only for trips originating in Canada and taken by fully vaccinated Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or individuals registered under the Indian Act.
- Effective November 30th, 2021, Canada will expand the list of approved COVID-19 vaccines to include Sinopharm, Sinovac, and COVAXIN. Individuals who have received a complete series of these vaccines will be considered fully vaccinated travelers.
- Effective November 30, 2021, vaccination will be required for federally regulated air and rail travellers within and out of Canada. A valid COVID-19 molecular test will no longer be accepted as an alternative to vaccination unless travelers are eligible for a limited exemption.
- Effective January 15, 2022, certain groups of travelers currently exempt from entry requirements will only be allowed to enter Canada if they are fully vaccinated. These groups include:
- individuals travelling to reunite with family (unvaccinated children under 18 years of age will retain exemption if travelling to reunite with an immediate or extended family member who is a Canadian, permanent resident, or person registered under the Indian Act);
- international students who are 18 years old and older;
- professional and amateur athletes;
- individuals with a valid work permit, including temporary foreign workers (outside of those in agriculture and food processing); and
- essential service providers, including truck drivers.
As always, it is recommended that you check the Government of Canada’s website before traveling in or out of Canada, as well as your airline provider’s website if applicable.
If you have any questions about this news update, or COVID-19 as it relates to Canadian immigration please contact us directly.
