Canada: New Requirements for Unvaccinated Travelers

Last Updated on February 23, 2023

Key Points

  • The Canadian government will implement new requirements for travel beginning Nov. 30, 2021 

Overview

The government of Canada announced that a negative COVID-19 molecular test will no longer be accepted as an alternative to vaccination beginning Nov. 30, 2021 for Canadian citizens. The government has advised that citizens who are not fully vaccinated by the end of November will not be eligible to travel until they become vaccinated. The government is also introducing a transitionary period for unvaccinated foreign nationals to travel from Canada until Feb. 28, 2022. These individuals will be required to present proof of a valid COVID-19 molecular test at the time of travel. 

What are the Changes?

In October the Canadian government announced that all Canadian citizens departing from Canadian airports and trains will require evidence of vaccination. This newest update will remove the previous exemption that allowed unvaccinated Canadians to continue to travel from Canadian airports and trains with a negative COVID-19 molecular test as an alternative to vaccination. 

Looking Ahead

The Canadian government has announced that it will release information on limited exceptions in the coming weeks. Continue to check the Canadian government website and Envoy’s website for additional information and details concerning exceptions and travel in Canada. 

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Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.