The Federal Government announced today adjustments to Canada’ border measures for short term travel.
Beginning as of November 30th full vaccinated travelers whose time outside of Canada is less than 72 hours will not have to have a valid Covid-19 test. The exemption is only for trips starting in Canada and by fully vaccinated Canadian citizens or indigenous individuals.
Those 12 years and younger also have this exemption as well as those with medical exemptions.
The list of acceptable vaccines in order to be considered fully vaccinated is being expanded as well. The list now includes Sinopharm, Sinovac and Covaxin.
The change makes the list in line with the World Health Organizations Emergency Use list.
Also announced was that as of January 15th of next year certain travelers who are currently exempt from the entry requirements will only be allowed into Canada if they are fully vaccinated with one of the vaccines approved for Canada.
The list of people impacted includes:
- Those travelling to reunite with family (unvaccinated children under 18 retain exemption if travelling to reunite with immediate or extended family who is a Canadian resident)
- International students who are 18 or older
- Professional or amateur athletes
- Individuals on valid work permits including temporary foreign workers (outside of those in agriculture or food processing)
- Essential service providers including truck drivers
Other than Agriculture and food processing workers the only exceptions to the rule are marine crew members, those entering on compassionate grounds, new permanent residents, resettling refugees and some children under the age of 18.
Those exempted people will still be subject to testing, quarantine and other entry requirements.
