Feds scrapping PCR tests for Canadians returning from short trips abroad: sources
Global News
Government sources tell Global News that Ottawa will drop its requirement for proof of a negative COVID-19 test upon entry to Canada — but only for short trips.
Fully vaccinated Canadians returning from trips less than 72 hours after leaving the country won’t be required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test when returning home.
Federal government sources, who spoke with Global News on condition of anonymity because they aren’t authorized to speak publicly, said the change will apply to Canadians and permanent residents.
However, fully vaccinated Canadians returning from trips longer than 72 hours will still be required to show proof of a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test upon return.
A formal announcement is expected to be made on Friday, sources said. It is expected to come into effect in December.
The news, which was first reported by La Presse, comes after weeks of lobbying by business leaders and politicians to drop the testing requirements.
Currently, travellers must provide proof of a COVID-19 negative molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled flight or arrival at a land border crossing to enter Canada, or proof of a previous positive test result taken between 14 and 180 days before travel.
Some private companies in the U.S. offer PCR tests for travellers for more than $200, which border town mayors have complained about as rules around travel eased.
“Are we going to force people to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars every time they want to come back to Canada with their family?” Niagara Falls, Ont., Mayor Jim Diodati previously told Global News.
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