Negative COVID-19 tests are now required prior to boarding flights to Canada

On December 31, 2020, Transport Canada announced a new measure designed to prevent further introduction and transmission of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) into Canada. Commencing January 7, 2021, all international passengers flying to Canada from another country will be required to provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test, unless otherwise exempt.  This requirement applies to air travel only and will not apply to land crossings.

Air passengers will be required to show written or electronic confirmation that they have undergone a molecular polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and received a negative result within 72 hours of their travel.  If travelers are unable to show their valid negative PCR tests, they will not be allowed to board their flights to Canada.  If PCR testing is not available in the country of departure, travelers will be able to self-quarantine for 14 days in Canada at a designated Public Health Agency of Canada facility, not a facility of their choice.

Despite the new requirements, the 14-day self-isolation requirement will still remain upon arrival in Canada.

Exemptions from the pre-travel testing will be available for the following groups of people:

• Children under the age of five;
• A crew member or a person who seeks to enter Canada only to become such a crew member;
• Emergency service providers; and
• Technical stops – flights refueling.

For more information on this topic, please contact Marani Law LLP.