New COVID-19 pilot planned for international travellers

News / New COVID-19 pilot planned for international travellers

A joint pilot program will safely test an alternative to the current 14-day quarantine requirement for international travellers

October 22 - Travellers returning to Canada continue to be legally required to quarantine for 14 days after entering the country. The new pilot announced October 22 will explore the feasibility of using a rigorous testing and monitoring program as a strategy to reduce the mandatory quarantine period, while keeping Canadians safe.

Beginning on November 2, COVID-19 testing will be offered initially at two ports of entry into Canada: the Coutts land border crossing and the Calgary International Airport in Alberta. Travellers who participate will receive a COVID-19 test upon entry into Canada before proceeding into the required quarantine.

Once the test comes back negative, they will then be allowed to leave their place of quarantine so long as they commit to getting a second test on day six or seven after arrival, at a community pharmacy participating in the pilot program.

Participants will be closely monitored through daily symptoms checks. They will also be required to follow enhanced preventive health measures, such as wearing masks in public places and avoiding visiting high-risk groups.

Pilot Program Facts

• The pilot will begin next month, with the start date expected to be November 2 • Non-exempt participants will be required to remain in Alberta for the first 14 days, the period normally associated with a quarantine. They may also be issued tickets if they fail to respect the public health requirements of the pilot • Eligible candidates must be returning Canadian citizens, permanent residents or foreign nationals currently permitted entry into Canada and who have no symptoms • The pilot will engage both levels of government as well as industry and research partners, and will help inform decisions on new measures for international travel • All returning international travellers who do not voluntarily participate in the pilot, must continue to adhere to the 14-day quarantine