On Wednesday April 8, Premier John Horgan announced new measures to stop the spread of COVID-19 by returning travellers. While any person entering Canada is required to self-isolate for 14 days immediately on return, British Columbia is the first province to require an approved self-isolation plan as part of the traveller’s return. It is anticipated that the Federal government will have a similar requirement in place by next week.

The self-isolation plan is a mandatory directive from the public health office. Anyone returning without a realistic plan will be placed into government-managed quarantine accommodation. Provincial government officials will begin reviewing the self-isolation plans at key points of entry to B.C. on Friday, April 10: YVR Airport; and Peace Arch, Pacific Highway, Boundary Bay and Osoyoos land crossings.

The self-isolation plan may be completed online or using a paper form prior to (ideally) or on return to B.C. The self-isolation plan should include the following information:

• Where the traveller will stay for 14 days;
• How will the traveller arrive at the self-isolation location;
• How has the traveller arranged to obtain necessary supports, including but not limited to:
  • Food;
  • Medication;
  • Child care;
  • Cleaning supplies;
  • Pet Care;
• Social or family support;
• Whether the traveller has any symptoms of COVID-19.

A provincial government official will review the traveller’s plan to determine whether it is acceptable. If a traveller needs time or assistance to put their plan and supports in place, they will be escorted to a government quarantine facility until they can satisfy the government that their supports and plan have been arranged.

Note that essential service workers in health care (including those making medical deliveries), critical infrastructure, trade & transportation, and airline crew must only self-isolate if they develop symptoms of COVID-19.

Beginning Friday, April 10, all international flights entering British Columbia will be re-directed to YVR: international flights including those from the USA will not be allowed to land at Victoria or Kelowna any longer.  

We will continue to update our clients with information as soon as it becomes available. If you have any questions about this topic, other COVID-19 related questions, or would like assistance with developing and/or reviewing pandemic plans, please do not hesitate to contact a Mathews Dinsdale lawyer, or refer to the Firm’s COVID-19 website resources.