As the Government of Canada looks at new measures in its approach to reopening Canada’s Borders, they have developed Proof of Vaccination plan to facilitate cross-border travel, whilst reducing the risk of spread and infection of Covid-19, in collaboration with the Provinces, Territories and Canada’s Indigenous People.
As a result of this development, please keep in mind the following information during your next trip abroad:
Any Canadians who do decide to travel should ensure that their Proof of Vaccination as it relates to Covid-19 is easily accessible during their travel, and that said Proof of Vaccination includes the following information:
the holder’s full name and date of birth
a neutral, factual account of the holder’s COVID-19 vaccination history, including
the number of doses
the vaccine type(s), product name(s) and lot number(s)
the dates they got their vaccinations
a QR code that includes the vaccination history and may include additional information on the COVID-19 vaccines received
We also advise checking the official Covid-19 Border Procedures of your destination location prior to travelling to ensure all requirements have been met. As each country determines the approved COVID-19 vaccine required, it is imperative to check your destination country to ensure you meet the requirements to enter, thereby alleviating the possibility of quarantine procedures taking effect. By providing the necessary proof of vaccinations, Border Personnel will have a better ability to assess whether a traveller meets their local Government’s public health measures, thereby, making travelling safer and more efficient.
Upon your return to Canada, your Proof of Vaccination will be uploaded via your ArriveCAN submission, which needs to be completed within 72 hours of your return flight via the mobile app or Canada.ca/ArriveCAN. Please also note, whilst the Government of Canada understands that not everyone has access to digital versions, they do provide alternatives in certain circumstances. More information on this can be found on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website.
Should you not have valid Proof of Vaccination as it relates to Covid-19, or should you refrain from following the above-noted legal advice, you may become subject to Quarantine procedures or other requirements both domestically and abroad.
In closing, although the Government of Canada has announced that Canadians should still refrain from non-essential travel, they recognise that proof of vaccination will ensure a safer, more streamlined approach to Canada’s re-introduction to international engagement.
Just remember to check the Government of Canada's travel advice and advisories, as well as your destination Country’s public health and border entry requirements, before making any plans to travel.
This update has been compiled with the latest available information for the general information of Border Law clients and other interested parties. This Update is not comprehensive and should not be relied upon without appropriate legal advice.