Canada announces new mandatory requirements for travelers before and after arrival.
Travelers to Canada will soon be required to use the ArriveCAN app as part of efforts to help contain the spread of the corona virus.
This free app was introduced in April, 2020, in an effort to help travellers comply with border measures, a government media release says. It is available as a mobile app, or by signing in online.
Before arriving at the border
Starting November 21, air travellers whose final destination is Canada must submit their information through ArriveCAN before boarding. This includes travel and contact information, quarantine plan (unless they are exempt), and a COVID-19 symptom self-assessment.
Travelers will need to show their ArriveCan receipt when seeking entry to Canada. Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) officers will verify that travelers have submitted their information digitally.
Travellers who do not comply could be subject to enforcement action, which can range from a verbal warning to a $1,000 fine. Exceptions will be provided to those who are unable to submit documents due to personal circumstances such as having a disability or inadequate infrastructure.
Beginning November 4, air travelers will be reminded by their air carrier that they will need to submit COVID-related information digitally through ArriveCAN before boarding their flight to Canada.
After arriving to Canada
As of November 21, 2020, all travellers who enter Canada by air, land, or marine will also be required to submit information through ArriveCAN or by calling the following toll-free number: 1-833-641-0343 during their quarantine period. Those exempt under the Mandatory Isolation Order do not need to complete this procedure.
Within 48 hours of arriving to Canada, travelers must confirm they have arrived at their place of quarantine and they must complete a daily COVID-19 symptom self-assessment during the quarantine period.
Travelers who do not use ArriveCAN to submit their information prior to arriving to Canada will be required to call the 1-833-641-0343 toll-free number on a daily basis during the quarantine period to provide their information. They will not be able to use ArriveCAN.
The Canadian government stressed in today’s news release that ArriveCAN respects traveller’s privacy and does not contain a GPS to track the movements of travellers.
Travallers are also offered dedicated lanes for ArriveCAN users at airports in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto (Pearson), and Montreal to expedite processing upon arrival.
