Last Updated on February 23, 2023
Key Points
- Canada has announced new COVID-19 testing and quarantine requirements
- Foreign nationals entering by land must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of entry into the country
- Essential workers are exempt from the new mandate
- Land travelers must be tested for COVID-19 at the border starting on February 22, 2021
- Testing is initially available at five ports of entry, increasing to 11 more ports of entry on March 4th
- Travelers must take a second COVID-19 test towards the end of their 14-day quarantine
- Starting February 22, 2021, air travelers must take a COVID-19 test upon arrival in Canada
- Air travelers must stay for three nights in a government-authorized hotel until they receive test results
- Travelers can continue with their connecting flights if they have negative test results
- A second COVID-19 test will be required for air travelers near the end of their 14-day quarantine
Overview
The Canadian government has announced new COVID-19 test and quarantine requirements for individuals planning to enter the country.
What are the Changes?
Travelers entering Canada by land must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of entry into the country. Essential workers are exempt from the requirements.
On February 22, 2021, the government will require individuals to be tested for COVID-19 at the border. Testing will be available at five ports of entry. An additional 11 ports of entry will offer testing starting on March 4, 2021. Travelers must take a second COVID-19 test near the end of their mandatory 14-day quarantine upon entry.
Additional requirements will also take effect for air travelers this month. On February 22, 2021, air travelers must take a COVID-19 test upon arrival and must take a second COVID-19 test near the end of their 14-day quarantine. Travelers must reserve a stay for 72 hours in a government-authorized hotel while they await their test results. Individuals who are traveling through Canada can continue with a connecting flight to their end destination after 72 hours if they have negative test results.
What Should Employers and Applicants Know?
All other COVID-19 travel restrictions and requirements remain in effect.
Looking Ahead
Updates to Canada’s COVID-19 related travel restrictions and requirements will be provided as available.
Content in this publication is not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an Envoy-affiliated attorney or another qualified professional.
