Effective January 7, all passengers aged five years or older (unless exempted) must demonstrate a negative laboratory test result for Covid‑19, performed using molecular polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, accredited by an external organization such as a government, a professional association or one with ISO accreditation, within 72 hours before flying from to Canada from another country. Proof of having received Covid‑19 vaccination does not exempt travellers from requiring a negative test result. You must also use the ArriveCAN app to provide accurate contact information and details of your 14‑day quarantine plan on or prior to entry. Your plan will then be reviewed by a government official, and if deemed non‑suitable you could be asked to quarantine in a federal quarantine facility. Violating conditions provided upon entry could lead to six months in prison and/or $750,000 in fines. Check Transport Canada’s backgrounder for detailed information about the new requirements.
Air travel – like grocery shopping or salon visits or school drop‑off – looks pretty different right now. Masks abound. The smell of hand sanitizer hangs in the air. And sometimes, information about what’s allowed and which practices are best can get a bit convoluted. We’re here to help, rounding up the latest rules and research for any Canadian who’s planning to take a trip right now.
Can I visit another province in Canada?
You can go to some of them, though you might not get the warmest reception: In November, B.C. Premier John Horgan called for country‑wide restrictions on non‑essential travel and urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to ask Canadians to “stay where you live.” Currently, travel between Quebec, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta and B.C. is permitted (if discouraged) and doesn’t require quarantining. Other provinces and territories allow travel with 14‑day self‑isolation requirements. And a few out east will not allow non‑residents in, other than for essential reasons like going to school or attending a funeral.