Travel

Check the COVID-19 situation where you plan to visit. Follow local guidance.

International travellers should plan ahead for the travel requirements of their destination and for returning home.

Last updated: February 10, 2023

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Travel within Canada
Travel within B.C.
International travel
COVID-19 precautions while travelling

Travel within Canada

Proof of vaccination is no longer required to board a plane or train in Canada. This applies only to travel within Canada and flights or trains leaving Canada.

Travelling from B.C. to other provinces or territories

British Columbians travelling to other provinces or territories should check their destination's public health information for any travel requirements and COVID-19 guidance. Check provincial and territorial travel restrictions

You may need a proof of vaccination to access some businesses.

Get your federal proof of vaccination

Travelling to B.C. from other provinces or territories

B.C. has lifted province-wide restrictions, however, masks may be required while accessing some services and health care facilities.

Please travel safely and respectfully while you’re visiting.

Travel within B.C.

Check conditions and advisories

For current conditions and travel advisories on BC ferries or roads, visit the BC Ferries or Drive BC websites.
For information on Provincial or National parks, recreation areas, historic sites and campgrounds visit the BC Parks or Parks Canada websites.
Visit Indigenous Tourism BC’s website for a list of Indigenous experiences in the province that are currently open to visitor

International travel

Canada's travel health advice and advisories

Level 2: Practise enhanced health precautions when travelling internationally.

See the Government of Canada's latest travel advice and advisories.

Leaving Canada

Follow the entry requirements of the country you are travelling to. Check to find out who can enter the country and if there are any vaccination, testing, quarantine, or other requirements.

Proof of vaccination

Many international destinations accept the federal COVID-19 proof of vaccination document for travel. It does not guarantee you entry into another country. Before you travel, you must check the rules of your destination country and the countries you transit through.

The federal COVID-19 proof of vaccination is different from the B.C. proof of vaccination.

BC residents: Get your federal proof of vaccination

Testing for travel purposes

In B.C., testing is generally not available through the provincial health care system for people without symptoms including routine screening for travel. There are private clinics that offer testing for a fee.

Different regions require different kinds of COVID-19 testing for entry. Many countries require a viral PCR or antigen test taken within 1 to 3 days of departure. Check local public health guidance to find testing requirements.

Preparing for extended stays

If you test positive for COVID-19 while travelling, you may need to self-isolate. Be aware that you may need to stay at your destination for longer than expected. Follow local public health guidelines.

If you feel sick or experience any symptoms of COVID-19 during your travel to Canada or upon arrival, you should:

inform the flight attendant, cruise staff or a border services officer upon arrival
avoid taking public transportation

Entering Canada

Requirements for entering Canada

Travellers entering Canada by air, land or sea should refer to Canada's requirements for COVID-19 and testing, travel and borders

Some provinces may require additional requirements.

Upon arrival in Canada

Everyone should check for symptoms of COVID-19, including people who recently travelled.

If you feel sick or experience any symptoms of COVID-19 during your travel to Canada or upon arrival, you should:

inform the flight attendant, cruise staff or a border services officer upon arrival
avoid taking public transportation

Avoid travel if you have symptoms of COVID-19.

Visit the Government of Canada website for further details and the most up to date information.

Learn about COVID-19 vaccination in B.C. for people who were vaccinated outside of Canada.

Practise COVID-19 precautions

Monitor your health

Monitor your health before, during and after travelling.

Stay home and do not travel if you develop symptoms of COVID-19.
If you, or anyone in your travelling group, develops symptoms while travelling, self-isolate and stay away from others.
Contact your health care provider, dial 8-1-1 or use the BC COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool to help you find out if you need further assessment or to be tested for COVID-19. If you are travelling outside of B.C. when symptoms develop, you will need to seek care locally.

Plan ahead

Be respectful of communities you plan to visit
Check with regions or communities before travelling. Respect each community's decision whether they are ready to welcome out-of-town visitors.
Check with the places you are hoping to visit to get the latest information on closures or restrictions.