What travellers departing Canada have to know

Canadian citizens and permanent residents are advised to avoid all non-essential travel outside of Canada until further notice to limit the spread of COVID-19.

The best way to protect yourself, your family and those most at risk of severe illness from COVID-19 in our communities is to choose to stay in Canada. Contact your airline or tour operator to determine options for cancelling or postponing your trip.

Many countries have put in place travel or border restrictions, such as movement restrictions and quarantines. Many airlines have reduced or suspended flights and many airports have closed.

These restrictions are changing quickly and may be imposed by countries with little warning. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted. Should you choose to take non-essential travel outside Canada, you may be forced to remain outside of Canada longer than expected.

It’s important to remember that if you choose to travel abroad:

• your trip may become much longer than you planned
• you may have reduced access to quality health care
• you could be subject to the measures of other countries

If you’re still considering travel outside of Canada, you should:

• understand the risks to your safety and security abroad
• check the pandemic travel health notice before travelling
• know the health risks and travel restrictions and requirements for your destination
• make sure you have enough money and necessities, including medication, in case your travel is disrupted

Protect yourself and others

If you must travel or are already outside Canada, get the latest advice and information for your safety and security.

During your trip:

• wear a non-medical mask or face covering when physical distancing can’t be maintained
• cough and sneeze into a tissue or the bend of your arm
• be aware of the local situation and follow local public health advice
• take precautions against respiratory illnesses, which includes: avoiding contact with sick people, avoiding large crowds or crowded areas
• wash your hands often with soap under warm running water for at least 20 seconds; if none is available, use hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol

If you feel sick during your flight or upon arrival:

• seek medical attention
• look for messaging on airport screens to guide you
• inform the flight attendant or a border services officer

When travelling outside Canada, expect increased health screening measures at points of entry for international destinations, including airports and land borders. Local authorities may impose control measures suddenly, including movement restrictions such as quarantines.

Face coverings while travelling

All air travellers, with some exceptions, are required to wear a non-medical mask or face covering while travelling.

The following people should not wear a mask:

• children under 2 years old
• people who need help to remove a mask
• people who provide a medical certificate certifying that they’re unable to wear a face mask for a medical reason

You may also be required to wear a non-medical mask or face covering on other modes of transportation that are federally regulated. Before you travel, check to see how transportation measures affect your plans and what you need to pack.

Source:

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/latest-travel-health-advice.html