Canada | Immigration | Pre-departure COVID-19 testing and negative results are expected for all air travelers before coming to Canada

The COVID-19 pandemic has produced a global crisis with a huge effect on the aviation industry and all travelers. The Canadian government has several measures to protect the health and safety of Canadians and to help prevent air travel from becoming a vector of further introduction and transmission of COVID-19 and its new strains into Canada.

The Government of Canada requires that effective January 7, 2021, EST, prior to flying from another country to Canada, all air passengers five years of age or older will be required to test negative for COVID-19. This implementation date provides ample time for all airlines, both international and domestic, to comply with the new regulations.

Before boarding a flight to Canada, travelers must submit evidence of a negative laboratory test result to the airline. The test must be carried out using a   PCR (molecular polymerase chain reaction) COVID-19 test. Travelers must take the test within 72 hours prior to the scheduled departure of the traveler for Canada.

Is there any exemption from 14-day mandatory quarantine, if tested negative for COVID-19?

The travelers who are tested negative for COVID-19 are authorized to enter Canada. However, they are not exempted from completing mandatory 14-day quarantine or isolation.

The Government of Canada will further strengthen monitoring measures to make sure that travelers entering Canada complete the required quarantine period as per the Quarantine Act.

All travelers will have their quarantine arrangements checked by a government official, as has been the case for months. If the plans are not suitable then they have to quarantine in a Federal quarantine facility.

Before landing in Canada, all travelers must use the ArriveCAN App or website. They must include correct contact details and their required 14-day quarantine plan on or before entry.

Violating any orders issued when you reach Canada is an offense under the Quarantine Act and may result in jail sentences of up to six months and/or fines of $750,000.

To prevent a delay in their return to Canada, Canadians who are currently traveling and returning to Canada soon should start preparing for a COVID-19 test immediately.