Canada COVID-19 Entry Requirements in 2022

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Last Updated 2 years ago

Throughout 2020 and most of 2021 Canada has had some of the strictest measures in the world. As of April 2022, Canada has now relaxed some of its tight border measures and is now allowing certain types of travelers to enter the country.

Here are all the latest COVID-19 entry requirements for Canada in 2022 and everything travelers need to know before planning a trip.  

Types Of Travelers Permitted To Enter Canada

The following categories of travelers are permitted to enter Canada: 

• As of September 7, 2021 fully vaccinated tourists from any country can now enter Canada for non-essential reasons.

Travel Authorization To Visit Canada

All travelers must download the ArriveCan app for entry into Canada.

Both citizens and foreign nationals must fill out the required information either through the mobile app or the online site.

COVID-19 Testing Entry Requirements 

As of August 9, 2021, entry requirements are basically separated into 2 categories and are different depending on if the traveler is fully vaccinated or not.

Canada defines ‘fully vaccinated' as having received the final dose at least 14 days prior to entry into Canada, with one of the 9 approved vaccines.

Only residents of Canada can enter if they are not vaccinated. Tourists from other countries can only enter if they have been fully vaccinated.

Entry Rules For Vaccinated Travelers

As of April 1, 2022, Canada has removed the pre-flight testing for entry into Canada for all fully vaccinated passengers.

To summarize entry rules for vaccinated passengers

• After April 1, 2022, no pre-departure test is needed
• Filling out ArriveCan app and uploading proof of being vaccinated
• Possible random testing on arrival at the airport, which may either be a test done on-site the passenger will have to queue for, or they will be given a home-test kit. No isolation is needed while waiting on results.

Entry Rules For Non-Vaccinated Travelers

1. Pre-Arrival Testing

ALL unvaccinated residents/citizens arriving in Canada will need to bring proof of a negative PCR test, taken within 72 hours of arrival. A 1-day antigen test is also now accepted.

A previous positive test between 10-180 days is also accepted.

2. Testing on Arrival & Day 8 Test

Starting Feb 22, 2021 all non-vaccinated arrivals by air and land will be tested for Covid. This may be done on-site depending on the place of entry, or an ‘at home' kit may be given to the traveler. The travelers will immediately go to their place of quarantine to complete a full 14-days. Another PCR test will be done on Day 8 of quarantine.

Quarantine Entry Requirements 

All non-vaccinated travelers must self-quarantine for 14 days when arriving in Canada.

In recent weeks the Canadian government has increased follow-up by authorities on individuals in self-isolation. The ArriveCan app must be used to check in once travelers have reached their self-quarantine destination. 

Note: As of August 9, 2021, the 3-day hotel quarantine has been discontinued for all travelers.

COVID-19 Travel Insurance Entry Requirements 

All incoming travelers should have travel insurance the covers COVID-19 for the duration of their trip to Canada.

COVID-19 Health Requirements While in Canada

All visitors must follow COVID-19 health requirements while in Canada:

• Most provinces have now dropped mask mandates
• Follow social distancing markers.
• Follow all instructions on ArriveCan app. 
• Starting October 30, 2021, all passengers boarding a domestic flight, a flight originating in Canada but heading to an international destination, a cruise ship, or a train, must show proof of being fully vaccinated or will be denied boarding.

COVID-19 Vaccine Entry Requirements 

Canada has announced that proof of vaccine IS required for entry by any non-citizens/residents.

As of July 5, 2021, they are making some exceptions for fully vaccinated residents and citizens returning home.

Visa Entry Requirements For Canada During COVID-19

All travelers arriving in Canada will need to follow regular visa requirements.

Use this government page to find out if you need a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling to Canada.

Travelers that require a visa must apply at the Canadian embassy/consulate in their home country.  

Read More: 

What’s It Like Traveling To Canada Right Now

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19

Sources: Canadian Gov, ArriveCAN

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

Article originally published November 15, 2020 with updates