The federal government has announced from 28 February 2022 pre-arrival PCR testing is no longer required for fully vaccinated travelers.
Pre-arrival PCR testing has proven to be a deterrent for Canadians wanting to travel. A PCR test can range from $150-$300 without a guarantee of results within the required 72 hours.
Travel Agents have seen a huge increase in inquiries and bookings since the announcement with many Canadians eager to secure long overdue vacations.
Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos announced this week that while entry requirements have been eased by way of PCR testing, arrivals will still need to take a pre-arrival test however this can now be in the form of a rapid antigen test. A traveler must take no more than 24 hours before the scheduled flight or before their arrival at the land border. – Rapid antigen tests are more widely available and can give results within minutes.
In addition to the testing changes, children under the age of 12 entering Canada with fully vaccinated parents do not have to isolate from schools, or daycare starting the 28 February.