2021-07-27-KPMG_Global-Canada_–_Borders_Re-open_to_Fully-Vaccinated_Travellers_5页_409kb

GMS Flash Alert Summary: Canada Border Reopening for Fully Vaccinated Travelers

Core Content

On July 27, 2021, the GMS Flash Alert provided an update on the reopening of Canada's borders for fully vaccinated travelers, marking a significant shift in immigration and travel policies in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Changes and Updates

Border Reopening Timeline

• August 9, 2021: Canada reopened its borders to fully vaccinated U.S. citizens and green card holders residing in the U.S. for discretionary (non-essential) travel.
• September 7, 2021: Canada plans to allow fully vaccinated travelers from all countries to enter for discretionary travel, subject to country-specific restrictions.

Vaccination Requirements

• To be considered fully vaccinated, travelers must have completed the full series of a Canadian-approved vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca/COVISHIELD, Janssen) at least 14 days prior to entry.
• Vaccinations can be received in any country, provided evidence is in English or French, or accompanied by a certified translation.

Testing and Quarantine Measures

• Fully vaccinated travelers are no longer required to undergo on-arrival testing, but may be randomly selected for testing.
• Unvaccinated travelers must complete pre-arrival, on-arrival, and day-8 molecular tests unless exempt.
• Unvaccinated children under 12 or those with mental or physical conditions accompanying a fully vaccinated parent do not need to quarantine for 14 days, but must complete a test upon arrival and on day eight of their stay.
• No mandatory hotel quarantine for fully vaccinated air travelers starting August 9, 2021, but all must have a suitable quarantine plan in case they are not exempt.

Marine Travelers

• Fully vaccinated travelers arriving by water will also benefit from eased quarantine measures.
• Special flexibility is provided for submitting ArriveCAN documentation due to lack of Wi-Fi at sea.

Expanded Airports for International Flights

• Starting August 9, 2021, international flights can now land at five additional Canadian airports: Halifax, Quebec City, Ottawa, Winnipeg, and Edmonton.

Provincial and Territorial Measures

• Travelers entering Canada will still be subject to provincial and territorial public health guidelines, including mask mandates and contact tracing.

Important Notes

• The U.S. government has not announced a reciprocal arrangement for Canadian citizens.
• Direct flights from India are still banned until August 21, 2021, but indirect routes are allowed with additional requirements.
• The Canadian government advises against non-essential travel outside the country due to the potential for sudden changes in entry rules.

Key Considerations for Employers and Travelers

• U.S. citizens and green card holders must be fully vaccinated 14 days prior to entry.
• Employees should ensure they have received a Canadian-approved vaccine and that the vaccine certificate is available in English, French, or with a certified translation.
• Travellers must submit a quarantine plan via ArriveCAN in case they are required to quarantine.
• Anticipate longer wait times at airports and land borders due to increased travel and processing.
• Family members of foreign workers no longer need a travel exemption letter to enter Canada.
• Provincial and territorial measures may still apply, and travelers are advised to check local guidelines.

Contact Information

For further guidance, travelers and employers are encouraged to contact:

• Naumaan Hameed
  Partner - Canadian Practice Leader, Immigration
  KPMG Law LLP - Tax + Immigration, Canada
  Tel: +1-416-777-3181
  Email: nhameed@kpmg.ca

• Yomna Khatib
  Senior Associate, Canadian Immigration
  KPMG Law LLP - Tax + Immigration, Canada
  Tel: +1-416-943-7762
  Email: ykhatib@kpmg.ca

• Graeme Black
  Senior Manager, Canadian Immigration
  KPMG Law LLP - Tax + Immigration, Canada
  Tel: +1-416-943-7756
  Email: graemeblack@kpmg.ca

Conclusion

The reopening of Canada's borders to fully vaccinated travelers represents a gradual return to normalcy in international travel. While some restrictions remain, especially for unvaccinated individuals, the changes aim to increase mobility and facilitate travel for personal and work-related purposes. Travelers are advised to stay informed and prepare accordingly for entry.