WHAT TO EXPECT WITH CANADA’S TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS

As more Canadians are in line on the COVID-19 vaccines, more travel restrictions raised. As well, it needs a lot of analysis on whether to reopen the border for international travel. “There’s still a lot of work to be done,” stated Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino.

Canada’s Health Minister Patty Hajdu mentioned that they are coming up with a document to allow vaccinated Canadians for overseas travel. In an interview on CBC Radio’s The House, Hajdu said, “Canadians are going to want to travel and just like there have been changes in other kinds of travel requirements over the years as a result of a number of events, Canadians need to be prepared to be able to travel internationally. And we’ll make sure that they are.”

At a virtual press conference, Mendicino said that the immigration ministry is significant in discussing the launching of a vaccine travel document. “Canada needs to be at the international tables… where there are discussions around setting a universal standard for vaccinations to promote the safe travel of those who have been vaccinated,” he also mentioned, “This is work that is ongoing. My department is playing a role in that, but we’re also doing it in conjunction with Health Canada. Certainly, we are envisioning a post-vaccinated world. In the grand scheme, it is a positive thought, but there’s still a lot of work to be done.”

In the interview with Hajdu, the ArriveCAN mobile app can be developed or innovated for the vaccine certification since it is already operating. Everyone coming to Canada are required to download the ArriveCAN application

. Before boarding or before arriving by land, passengers need to submit their travel information, background, contact, quarantine arrangement and a COVID-19 self-assessment form. Having a COVID-19 test a few days before travelling is also a requirement for travellers coming to Canada.

They should also take an RT-PCR test on arrival and on the eighth day of their quarantine period.

How about other countries?

Most countries that have regulated vaccine distribution already considered having vaccine passports or e-certificates for those who received the immunization. These papers will be used as proof when entering another country, certifying that the holder acquired the COVID-19 vaccine. In addition, the European Union (EU) officials proposed to ease travel restrictions this week. The EU currently has 27 member states and is only open for international travel to low-risk countries. The proposal includes the entry of vaccinated individuals with the vaccine brands approved by the EU. These are Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson.

What can we expect with the restrictions?

At the moment, Canada has restrictions for all travellers, including the United States, imposed up to May 21, 2021. Nevertheless, no one knows if it will be lifted or extended. Therefore, passengers need to follow policies and be compliant with the requirements to avoid hassle on their travel plans. Other than that, immigration processing is still operating but with limitations due to controlled operations.