The federal government is dropping mandatory COVID-19 vaccine requirements for travelers on Oct. 1, 2022.
The decision to end vaccine restrictions cited was based on Canada’s vaccination rate, availability of newer vaccines and treatments and data showing the country had passed the peak of the latest wave of coronavirus infections.
As of Oct. 1, all travellers, regardless of citizenship, will no longer have to:
- Submit public health information through the ArriveCAN app or website;
- Provide proof of vaccination;
- Undergo pre- or on-arrival testing;
- Carry out COVID-19-related quarantine or isolation;
- Monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms of COVID-19 upon arriving to Canada;
- Undergo health checks for travel on air and rail;
- Or wear masks on planes and trains.
Cruise measures are also being lifted, and travellers will no longer be required to have pre-board tests, be vaccinated, or use ArriveCAN. A set of guidelines will remain to protect passengers and crew, which will align with the approach used in the United States.
“The removal of COVID-19 travel measures will improve passengers’ overall travel experience, assist our frontline employees, and allow more people to reconnect with loved ones and tourism experiences across the province and country,” said Tamara Vrooman, president & CEO at Vancouver Airport Authority. “As pandemic policies are removed, demand for aviation will continue to strengthen. As will the role of YVR within B.C.’s critical supply chain infrastructure. It is imperative going forward that government and industry work collaboratively to drive further policy development and innovation to meet the needs of travellers, and that we support sustainable growth and aviation sector employees.”
The announcement was also welcomed by the Canadian Airport Council.
“The aviation industry was hard-hit over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic and has been forced to operate under a complicated and constantly shifting series of restrictions and regulations for over two years,” said CAC president Monette Pasher. “We are very pleased that our members and industry partners will soon be back to normal operations and can focus on providing safe and reliable air travel experiences to Canadians and those wishing to visit our country. This decision will also help our industry get back on track to becoming a globally competitive one, which will improve our tourism and travel industry overall.”
