Life in Canada
Canada: China, Hong Kong, and Macao Travellers Must Present Negative COVID-19 Test Results
The government of Canada has announced that it will soon require all flight travellers to have COVID-19 test results that are negative. This action is in reaction to a recent increase in COVID-19 cases across the nation.
All incoming air travellers over the age of one will now need to provide a negative COVID-19 test result before boarding a trip to Canada from the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong, or Macao. As per a new temporary regulation, this will go into effect from January 5, 2023, Canada requires that the result submitted by the traveller be from a test that was completed not more than two days before the traveller’s date of departure as part of this policy, which will be in effect for an initial period of 30 days.
According to the Canadian government, the test could be either a negative molecular (such as a PCR test) or a negative antigen test that has paperwork. The test must prove that it has been monitored by a telehealth service or a certified laboratory or testing provider. The Canadian government will also accept proof of a past positive test from travellers who tested positive more than 10 days (but no more than 90 days) prior to their departure in place of a negative test result.
Note: Travellers who are unable to present a negative test result or proof of a prior positive result will not be allowed to board the aeroplane.
Measures for Increasing COVID-19 Protection
The Canadian government states that in addition to the aforementioned temporary adjustments, travellers will be questioned about whether they have recently visited Macao, Hong Kong, or the People’s Republic of China. If the response is positive, CBSA agents will give those travellers more public health information on COVID-19 transmission, personal preventive measures, and what to do if they exhibit symptoms. However, it is not applicable to those arriving by land, only those travelling by air.
In order to assess the COVID-19 prevalence in different parts of the world, the Public Health Agency of Canada is building on this by launching a wastewater testing project with aircraft at Vancouver International Airport and expanding the current project with Toronto Pearson International Airport.
