Canada’s new travel vaccine requirements take effect

All passengers leaving from Canadian airports, as well as those travelling domestically via planes, trains, and cruises, are required to show proof of full vaccination as of Saturday, Oct. 30.

The new federal travel rules will apply to people 12 years and older. The government says there will be a “short transition period” for those who are in the process of being vaccinated during which they will be able to travel if they can show a negative COVID-19 molecular test, taken no more than 72 hours from their departure.

The transition period will end on Nov. 30, at which time all travellers will have to show they’ve been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

“Let me be very clear – if you are not fully vaccinated by the end of November you will not be able to board a plane or train in Canada,” Canada’s transport minister Omar Alghabra told a news conference outside Toronto International Pearson Airport on Friday.

The new rules will apply to air travel within Canada, as well as transborder or international flights leaving from Canadian airports; rail travel, including on VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineering trains, and marine travel on what the government describes as “non-essential passenger vessels” — like cruise ships — that are 24 hours or longer.

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In addition to specific and limited exceptions for emergencies and medical reasons, the new vaccine mandate provides allowances for travellers from “small, remote communities (some of which are not accessible by road)” in order to ensure these people are able to travel for medical, health, or social well-being reasons.

Ottawa said earlier this month that it was eyeing exceptions for 182 communities. Alghabra said the government consulted with First Nations, provinces and territories to develop the exemption.

As of Nov. 30, travellers will be required to use a new pan-Canadian vaccine passport, which will be issued through provinces and territories. The new proof of vaccination system will show the traveller’s name, date of birth, and which vaccines they received, as well as when. Border agents and air operators will be able to scan a QR code to view this information.

Until the end of November, travellers will be able to use their provincial proof of immunization cards.

Vaccine mandates for workers

Starting Oct. 30, federally regulated employers in the air, rail, and marine transportation sectors are required to “establish” vaccine policies for their workers.

The government says Transport Canada will ensure vaccine mandates are in place for workplaces that fall under these categories.

The policies, as outlined on the government’s website must include requirements for worker “attestation/declaration of their vaccination status;” clear descriptions of the consequences of failing to abide by the mandate, and must meet the standards set out by the federal government.

Employers will be able to “phase-in” their policies. They will be required to ensure workers are fully vaccinated or unable to work, though it’s unclear what the timeline is. The federal government says it’s working with labour groups.

-With files from Claire Fenton