Canada’s new vaccination rules for travel are now in effect.
As the Government of Canada announced on August 13, travellers in the federally regulated air and rail sectors will need to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Transport Canada issued the final orders and guidance to airlines and railways to implement the new rules for travellers, which went into effect at 3 a.m. EDT today (October 30, 2021). The vaccination requirements will apply to all travellers 12 years of age plus four months who are:
- Air passengers flying on domestic, transborder, or international flights departing from certain airports in Canada; and
- Rail passengers on VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains.
Travellers will need to show airlines and railways proof of vaccination. For a short transition period until November 29, 2021, travellers have the option to show proof of a valid COVID-19 molecular (PCR) test in order to board. Airlines and railways will be responsible for confirming the vaccination status of travellers. In the aviation mode, the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) will also support operators by confirming vaccination status.
There will very few exceptions for emergencies and special accommodations for designated remote communities so residents can continue to access essential services.
Requirements effective November 30
As of November 30, a negative COVID-19 molecular test will no longer be accepted as an alternative to vaccination. If travellers have not already started the vaccination process, or do not start very soon, they will not be eligible to travel starting November 30. There will be only very limited exemptions. Additional information will be provided in the coming weeks.
In addition, there will be transitional measures for unvaccinated foreign nationals who normally reside outside of Canada and who entered Canada prior to October 30. Until February 28, they will be able to take a flight for the purpose of departing Canada if they show proof of a valid COVID-19 molecular test at the time of travel.
The Government of Canada will continue to engage with key stakeholders, employers, airlines and railways, bargaining agents, Indigenous Peoples, local authorities, and provinces and territories to support the implementation of the vaccination requirement
“Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to reduce the further spread of COVID-19 in Canada,” said Omar Alghabra, Minister of Transport. “Requiring travellers and employees to be vaccinated, ensures that everyone who travels and works in the transportation industry will protect each other and keep Canadians safe.”
“These travel requirements, vaccinations and other public health measures will help keep Canadians safe from COVID-19. I encourage everyone who has not yet been vaccinated to book an appointment today; you are not only protecting yourself, but your loved ones and everyone around you,” said Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos.
Transport Canada says it continues to work with the cruise ship industry, and other domestic and international partners, to permit the safe re-opening of Canada to cruise ship travel in spring 2022, including the specific vaccination requirements for cruise ship passengers, and other health protocols.
