Federal government removes PCR test requirement for short cross-border trips, but requires vaccination for travelers

Article content

Beginning November 30, fully vaccinated Canadians traveling out of the country will not need to submit a negative molecular test for COVID-19 if their trip is less than 72 hours.

Article content

The adjustment to Canada’s border rules was officially announced by the federal government on Friday, at the same time as the announcement of greater stringency regarding the vaccination status of all travelers.

“As of November 30, vaccination will be required to travel in and out of Canada,” the government stated.

“A valid COVID-19 molecular test will no longer be accepted as an alternative to vaccination, unless travelers are eligible for one of the limited exceptions, such as medical inability to get vaccinated.”

Additionally, as of January 15, travelers who were previously exempt from entry requirements will only be able to enter Canada if they are fully vaccinated. That includes essential service providers like truck drivers, athletes (both professional and hobbyists), temporary foreign workers, international students, and those reunited with family.

Article content

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens praised the lifting of the test requirement for short trips as “fair, reasonable and compassionate,” particularly for those in communities like Windsor, where the cost and inconvenience of a chain reaction test of the polymerase (PCR) have made it a hindrance. for cross-border families.

“As we continue to gradually reopen, it is important for us to respond with common sense policies that help reduce risk while appreciating the realities on the ground,” the mayor said in a public statement. “This announcement moves us in that direction.”

Article content

Irek Kusmierczyk, Liberal MP for Windsor-Tecumseh, said he has spent months talking directly to federal ministers about how our region is “highly integrated” as a border community, and Friday’s announcement shows a “sensible and balanced approach” to politics. travel as the pandemic continues.

The lifting of the CRP test requirement only applies to vaccinated Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

For those traveling by air, the 72-hour period runs from the initially scheduled departure time of the flight out of Canada to the initially scheduled departure time of the flight back to Canada. Air travelers will be responsible for maintaining proof of the 72-hour period, such as a boarding pass or the airline’s travel itinerary.

More to come.

Article content