Key Points
- On June 21, 2021 the Public Health Agency of Canada announced its first phase of relaxing border restrictions for travelers entering Canada.
- Beginning July 5, 2021 (at 11:59 PM EDT), fully vaccinated travelers granted entry to Canada will no longer face mandatory quarantine or COVID-19 testing on day 8. Additionally, these travelers will no longer be required to lodge in government-authorized hotels.
- Fully vaccinated travelers must still take COVID-19 tests before and after arriving in Canada.
Overview
For these new measures to apply to fully vaccinated travelers, please see the following requirements:
- Fully vaccinated travelers must be asymptomatic.
- Fully vaccinated travelers must have a paper or e-copy of their vaccination confirmation document and provide all COVID-19 information through the electronic ArriveCAN portal BEFORE arriving.
- They must prepare their own quarantine plan in the event that border officials determine they are ineligible for quarantine exemption.
- They must wear masks in public.
- They must keep copies of their test results and vaccine documentation.
- They must present a list of close contacts for 14 days post-entry into Canada.
Additional note: Travelers must be fully vaccinated to be considered for quarantine exemption. For travelers who are not fully vaccinated, protocols remain the same. There will be no quarantine exemptions for partially vaccinated or non-vaccinated travelers.
What are the Changes?
Prior to this announcement, the Government of Canada has maintained strict border controls. Throughout the pandemic, the government limited non-essential travel, required testing on Day 8 of arrival, sent travelers to government-authorized lodging, and more.
Looking Ahead
Due to increased COVID-19 vaccine rollout, the Public Health Agency is taking gradual measures to ease restrictions and monitor risk. In the governmental announcement, the Public Health Agency labeled this “the first phase” of relaxing border protocols. It is possible that similar regulatory changes, and upcoming phases, may come later this summer. Employers with fully vaccinated Canada-bound talent should monitor this announcement and inform employees of their options.
Originally published 22 June 2021
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