Canada’s federal government is making Covid testing mandatory for inbound travelers.
The new rule is expected to come into force in the next few days and requires a negative Covid-19 PCR test taken three days before arrival.
It is required for air passengers and personnel at land borders will also be inceased.
"We strongly advise against travel unless absolutely necessary," Public Safety Minister Bill Blair said at a news briefing in Ottawa.
If you must travel, understand that upon your return, you must follow guidelines and quarantine for 14 days. It’s not just the right thing to do — it’s the law."
Blair said the 14-day mandatory quarantine is still applicable even with a negative test result.
"We know that some Canadians have travelled for non-essential purposes. These Canadians, of course, have a right to return home but when they come back they have a responsibility, both legal and moral, to quarantine."
The more contagious variant, which was first discovered in the UK has now been found in four Canadian provinces.
Written by Ray Montgomery, US Editor
