Starting November 21, 2020, all travellers (including Canadian citizens and permanent residents), whose final destination is Canada, are required to provide contact and quarantine information before and after entering Canada through ArriveCAN. This information is mandatory as part of Canada’s efforts to prevent the importation and reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Before Arriving to Canada

All travellers entering Canada by air must submit the following information to ArriveCAN, either by downloading the ArriveCAN mobile app or submitting the information online:

• Contact information (name, date of birth, e-mail address, phone number and passport details);
• Travel details (date of arrival, flight number/airline/airport or port of entry) and purpose of travel (work, study, family reunification, exempt travel);
• COVID-19 symptom self-assessment; and
• Quarantine plan (unless exempted).

If the information is not submitted prior to boarding, air travellers may face delays at the border due to additional questioning from public health authorities. In addition, they may face an enforcement action ranging from a warning to a $1,000 fine.

Those travelling to Canada by land or sea are strongly encouraged to submit travel information before their arrival using ArriveCAN. Submitting this information in advance will speed up processing at the port of entry and limit physical contact with border and public health officials.

Travellers entering Canada who are or may be exempt from quarantine must still use the ArriveCAN app or website to submit their contact information, travel details and advise if they are experiencing any symptoms.

On entry to Canada, border officers will request a copy of the submission receipt for verification.

After Entering Canada

Starting November 21, 2020, all travellers who have entered Canada by air, land or sea (unless exempted from mandatory quarantine/isolation requirements) must:

• Confirm within 48 hours of arrival that they have reached the quarantine/isolation location that was provided; and
• Complete COVID-19 symptom self-assessments on a daily basis during the quarantine period.

This information can be provided through the ArriveCAN app or website (if the traveller initially submitted their information digitally) or by calling 1‑833‑641‑0343. If the traveller does not provide the required follow-up information they may be contacted by public health authorities and enforcement for non-compliance may be taken.

If you have any questions about this matter, other COVID-19 related issues, or would like any other workplace law assistance, please contact a Mathews Dinsdale lawyer, or refer to the Firm’s COVID-19 website resources.