Travel from Canadian airports and railways will soon be required to be completely vaccinated, according to the Canadian government. According to the Canadian government, the first phase of the new restrictions will begin on October 30. To board federally controlled modes of transportation, all passengers aged 12 and up will need to be vaccinated.
All domestic and international flights departing from Canadian airports, rail passengers on VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains, and cruise ship passengers on cruises of 24 hours or more are included.
Travelers who are in the process of getting vaccinated will have a 30-day transition period. Unvaccinated passengers who have a valid COVID-19 molecular test done within 72 hours of departure may be allowed to board. All travelers, however, must be completely vaccinated by November 30. Only emergency travel and those who are medically unable to be vaccinated may be exempt.
Other accommodations for travelers from rural places will be included in the new mandate to ensure that they can still travel for critical services. In the next few days, more information will be available.
Employees in the transportation industry will be affected as well. As of October 30, all businesses in the federally regulated aviation, rail, and maritime transportation industries must have immunization policies in place. Airlines, airports, including concession and hospitality workers, railways, rail crew, track employees, and marine operators with 12 or more crew members in Canada are all covered by the regulation. Employees who have not received all of their vaccinations will be unable to work.
Inspections will be used by Transport Canada to enforce the new regulations. Failure to comply by employers in the transportation sector might result in fines ranging from $5,000 to $250,000 per infringement.
In collaboration with the provinces and territories, the federal government is actively establishing a pan-Canadian proof of vaccination. The paper is expected to be made available in digital formats, though no date has been set yet.
If you’re looking to travel to Canada, consult an Immigration lawyer to know the current rules and regulations related to travel. Book an appointment to find out more!
