Canada Announces Removal of COVID-19 Border Entry Requirements

The Government of Canada announced, on Monday, September 26, 2022, that after Friday, September 30, 2022, all requirements related to COVID-19 for entering into Canada will expire. These include:

• Providing proof-of-vaccination and other health information;
• Mandatory usage of the ArriveCAN application;
• Pre- or on-arrival testing and/or screening requirements;
• Random testing at airports;
• Monitoring and reporting if one develops COVID-19 symptoms;
• Quarantine and isolation requirements.

As a result, as of September 30, 2022, persons entering Canada would still be required to follow local public health guidelines, where applicable. The removal of measures applies to all forms of travel, including by air, land (including rail), and sea, whether internationally-bound or domestic.

Many of these requirements have been in place since early 2020, during the onset of the pandemic. Employers with employees travelling into Canada can be assured that such measures related to COVID-19 will no longer apply as of October 1, 2022. It is important to note that the Government of Canada did leave open the possibility of re-imposing measures if the situation regarding COVID-19 is seen as requiring it.

Ogletree Deakins’ Toronto office will continue to monitor and report on developments with Canada’s border entry requirements and will post updates on the Cross-Border blog as additional information becomes available. Important information for employers is also available via the firm’s webinar and podcast programs.

Hugh A. Christie is the managing partner of the Toronto office of Ogletree Deakins.

Michael C. Comartin is a partner in the Toronto office of Ogletree Deakins.

Kathryn J. Bird is a partner in the Toronto office of Ogletree Deakins.

John T. Wilkinson is 2022 graduate of Queen’s University, Faculty of Law, and he is an articling student in the Toronto office of Ogletree Deakins.