As of Nov. 21, all air travellers entering Canada will have to provide specific COVID-related information including travel information, self-assessment, and quarantine plans through the government’s ArriveCAN platform. The measures are mandatory and can be completed online or through an app prior to boarding and also require post-arrival follow-up.
The federal government launched ArriveCAN in April as a “user-friendly” way to comply with border measures. Starting Nov. 4, travellers – including those arriving by land or water – are urged to begin using the system and passengers can expect to be reminded by their carriers to do so. (Families travelling together can file as one).
After completing the digital protocols, travellers will receive an ArriveCAN receipt to be shown to a border services officer for verification. Travellers who do not submit the required information could be subject to enforcement action, which can range from verbal warnings to $1,000 fine. Exceptions will be made for those unable to submit documents electronically due to personal circumstances, such as disability or inadequate infrastructure.
Post-entry to Canada
Unless exempted under conditions set out in the Mandatory Isolation Order, travellers will also be required to follow up-within 48 hours of arrival and submit specific information through ArriveCAN or by calling 1-833-641-0343 toll-free:
• Confirmation of arrival at their place of quarantine or isolation
• Daily COVID-19 symptom self-assessment during their quarantine period.
Travellers who do not submit the mandatory information required after they have crossed the border will be considered a high priority for follow-up by law enforcement.
The government says the measures will help travellers avoid additional delays upon arrival for public health questioning, limit points of contact at the border between travellers and border services officers and Public Health Agency of Canada officers, and allow information to be shared quickly and securely with provinces and territories to contact travellers for public health follow-up and with law enforcement to verify compliance.
Quick Facts
• In-transit passengers whose final destination is not Canada do not need to submit their information through ArriveCAN.
• Travellers who may experience difficulty submitting their information through ArriveCAN can access additional information at Canada.ca/ArriveCAN or send an email to: phac.arrivecan.aspc@canada.ca.
• Exceptions will be made for those who are unable to submit documents electronically due to personal circumstances, such as disability or inadequate infrastructure.
• Dedicated lanes for faster processing for ArriveCAN users are available at major airports, including Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal.
• ArriveCAN does not use any technology or data, such as GPS, to monitor or track traveller movements thereby protecting privacy.
The ArriveCAN app is available for download on Google Play for Android or through the App Store for iOS. Travellers can also submit their information by signing in ONLINE.
For more information, visit Canada.ca/ArriveCAN.