Canada: Stricter COVID-19 Test Requirements To Start On February 15, 2021

Key Points

• Canada will impose more stringent COVID-19 requirements at land borders on Feb. 15^th
• Travelers crossing into Canada by land must submit negative COVID-19 test results next week
• Individuals who do not have negative COVID-19 test results may be fined up to $3,000
• The new requirements add to existing COVID-19 restrictions in Canada for arriving travelers

Overview

As an added measure to limit the risk of COVID-19 transmission, the Canadian government will start requiring negative COVID-19 test results for all individuals who enter Canada through land borders.

What are the Changes?

Canada will soon require individuals arriving by land to show proof of negative COVID-19 test results. The new measure follows a requirement issued in January 2021 for all travelers arriving in Canada by air to provide negative PCR COVID-19 test results.

What Should Travelers Know?

At this time, the new measure adds to existing COVID-19 policies. It does not cancel or replace any policies that are currently in place.

Travelers will still be able to enter Canada through land borders if they are otherwise qualified to enter the country for essential purposes. However, travelers who do not have negative COVID-19 test results, including Canadian citizens returning home, may be fined up to $3,000.

Looking Ahead

Updates will be provided as available on Canada's COVID-19 travel requirements.

Originally published 10 February, 2021

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