With the increased availability of rapid COVID tests and decreasing hospitalization rates, the Government of Canada has announced plans to ease health measures for travellers crossing the border.
Beginning February 28, fully-vaccinated travellers will now have the option of using a COVID-19 rapid antigen test result. Previously, only a molecular test was accepted.
The rapid antigen test must be taken the day prior to a scheduled flight or arrival at the land border. A molecular test must be taken no more than 72 hours ahead of time.
“For two years now, our government’s actions in the fight against COVID-19 have been based on prudence and science. Today’s announcements are a reflection of the progress we have made against this current Omicron variant,” said Minister of Health Jean-Yves Duclos in a news release.
Unvaccinated travellers will still need to test on arrival and quarantine for 14 days. Unvaccinated foreign nationals will not be permitted to enter Canada unless they meet one of the few exemptions.
The Government of Canada will also lower its Travel Health Notice from Level 3 to Level 2, will no longer recommend that Canadians avoid travel for non-essential purposes.
“As we have said all along, Canada’s border measures will remain flexible and adaptable, for potential future scenarios,” added the health minister.