“Two Years and Older: Negative COVID-19 Test Now Required for Air Travel to Canada!”
In response to the surge of COVID-19 cases in the People’s Republic of China, the Government of Canada is taking action to protect the health and safety of Canadians. Temporary health measures will be put in place for air travellers entering Canada from China to ensure a safe and secure environment for all. This prudent and measured approach is necessary to address the evolving pandemic and limited epidemiological and viral genomic sequence data available.
As of 12:01 a.m. EST on January 5, air travellers aged two and above who are flying from the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong or Macao will need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within two days of departure. The test must be either a molecular (such as a PCR test) or an antigen test monitored by a telehealth service or accredited laboratory. If you tested positive for the virus during the past 90 days but more than 10 days before your flight, you can provide documentation of the positive test result instead.
Air travellers, regardless of nationality and vaccination status, will be subject to a range of health measures for the next 30 days. Airlines must receive proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within the last 10-90 days, or documentation of a positive test result, before the traveller boards the plane. Any traveller without this proof will be denied boarding. As more data and evidence becomes available, these measures will be reassessed.
Travellers arriving in Canada through air travel will now be asked if they have been to the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong or Macao in the last 10 days. At Primary Inspection Kiosks and eGates, or when making a customs declaration in advance, CBSA officers will provide additional public health information to travellers on COVID-19 transmission, protective measures and what to do if symptoms develop. Whether you’re arriving by air or by land, be sure to declare any recent trips to these areas to ensure the safety of yourself and others.
The Public Health Agency of Canada is taking proactive steps to monitor the prevalence of COVID-19 and novel variants of concern around the world by running a pilot project to test wastewater from aircrafts at Vancouver International Airport and expanding the existing project at Toronto Pearson International Airport. The samples collected will be sequenced to provide important insight into the virus.
The Government of Canada is closely monitoring the spread of COVID-19 variants in the country, including the Omicron variant of concern and its sub-lineages. Through a comprehensive genomic sequencing network and wastewater testing in Canadian communities, the government is able to identify positive test samples from domestic provincial, territorial and federal molecular tests. This allows them to stay on top of the ever-evolving virus and take the necessary steps to mitigate its spread.
Wearing well-constructed and well-fitted masks while travelling on planes and in airports, or other crowded indoor settings, is not mandatory but highly recommended. Remember, if you are feeling unwell with any signs of COVID-19, please do not travel. If you become sick during your travels, notify a flight attendant or border services officer when you arrive in Canada. Stay safe and enjoy your journey!
The Government of Canada is actively collaborating with international partners to expand sequencing capacity and keep an eye on the global evolution of COVID-19 and any new variants of concern. By doing so, Canada is striving to stay one step ahead of the virus and ensure the safety and wellbeing of its citizens.
Quotes
The Canadian Government is taking every possible step to protect its citizens from the dangers of COVID-19. We are constantly monitoring the situation and taking necessary measures to ensure the health and safety of all Canadians. To keep yourself protected, make sure to stay up-to-date with your vaccinations and take the necessary precautions like wearing masks in crowded indoor areas and staying home when you’re feeling unwell. Together, we can ensure a safe future for all.
The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos
Minister of Health
Our Government is committed to safeguarding the health and safety of Canadians by introducing measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We are constantly adapting our plans based on the latest data, science, and epidemiological trends both in Canada and around the world to ensure travellers and the transportation industry remain safe. Together, we can protect our citizens and keep our country safe.
The Honourable Omar Alghabra
Minister of Transport
At the start of the pandemic, our government prioritized the safety and security of Canadians by implementing strong measures at Canada’s border to limit the spread of COVID-19. As the situation continues to develop, we remain committed to taking appropriate action, recognizing that Canadians expect nothing less.
The Honourable Marco Mendicino
Minister of Public Safety
The global fight against COVID-19 requires international cooperation, and Canada is leading the way. Our Embassy in Beijing and consulates in China, along with the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa, are standing ready to provide Canadians with vital consular assistance. We’re also supporting countries in accessing vaccines, tests, and treatments for those most at risk. Canada remains committed to working with global partners to help manage the COVID-19 response and prepare for the future.
The Honourable Mélanie Joly
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Quick Facts:
- The COVID-19 pandemic is not yet over, and the Government of Canada is doing its best to keep Canadians safe. It’s important to stay up to date with recommended vaccinations, including booster doses when eligible, and to wear well-constructed and well-fitting masks in poorly ventilated or crowded places. If you’re feeling unwell, it’s best to stay home and take precautions. With vigilance and care, we can emerge from this pandemic together.
- Are you planning a trip abroad from Canada? Make sure to get your COVID-19 vaccine series completed, along with any recommended additional doses, at least 14 days before you take off! That way, you can travel safely and comfortably.
- Planning a trip abroad? Make sure you check out the Travel Advice and Advisories page for your destination to stay informed on the latest health risks, safety and security, local laws and customs, entry requirements, and more. Doing your research before you go will help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey!
- If you’re planning a trip outside of Canada, take a moment to consider the current Level 2 travel health notice for COVID-19. It’s important to make informed decisions when travelling and take extra steps to protect your health. Practice public health measures and maintain enhanced health precautions when you arrive at your destination.
- Canadians can stay informed and prepared in the event of an emergency by signing up for the Registration of Canadians abroad service from Global Affairs Canada. By registering, Canadians will be able to receive important messages from the government at any time.
- As the world celebrates the Chinese New Year on December 23, 2022, the World Health Organization has issued a Level 2 travel health notice urging travelers to take extra health precautions while in China due to the recent easing of many of the COVID-19 restrictions. With the festivities in full swing, it’s important to stay vigilant and safe during this time.
- Travelers of all nationalities don’t need to provide their public health information through ArriveCAN’s app or website – no matter where they’re coming from.