Negative COVID-19 test to be required at Canada’s land borders starting Feb. 15

OTTAWA (NEWS 1130) – Anyone coming into Canada by land will be required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test starting Feb. 15.

The negative PCR test will have to be taken within 72 hours of the person crossing at the land border.

BREAKING: Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau announces beginning Feb 15, anyone crossing back into Canada through land borders will have to show a negative COVID test from within the last 72 hours #cdnpoli

— Cormac Mac Sweeney (@cmaconthehill) February 9, 2021

The requirement is already in place for all international travellers coming into Canada by air.

The new testing requirement at Canada’s land borders was announced last month as the country saw an increase in the number of variant cases.

When asked on Tuesday what would be done if a Canadian showed up at a point of entry without proof of a test, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said it’s not legal to refuse entry to a Canadian.

“What we can do is, in cases of no test to show, apply a stiff penalty, a fine, and demand and ensure a rapid and complete follow up to make sure that they are getting tested, that they are being properly quarantined, that they are not putting at risk the safety of other Canadians by returning home without a clear, negative test,” Trudeau explained.

Trudeau asked about Canadians who show up to the border without a test. The Prime Minister says it is not legal to refuse a Canadian entry to Canada. Says what the feds can do is apply a stiff penalty, and ensure follow ups on quarantines for those that don't show test #cdnpoli

— Cormac Mac Sweeney (@cmaconthehill) February 9, 2021

Trudeau also announced on Jan. 29 that, in the coming weeks, the federal government was bringing in measures that will see all travellers to Canada take a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival. As they wait for their test results, travellers will be required to isolate in a government-approved hotel for up to three days at their own expense.

If the traveller’s test comes back negative, they will be allowed to complete their 14-day quarantine at home. If their test comes back positive, they will be required to complete the isolation period at a government-designated facility.

It’s unclear when this quarantine measure will be brought in. The Public Health Agency of Canada listed on Monday its criteria for hotels looking to participate in this travel measure.

Hotel submissions are due on Wednesday. The agency says qualified hotels must be near one of the four airports currently accepting international travel — Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, and Montreal. They must also provide contactless meal delivery to rooms and free WiFi, set up a process for brief outdoor breaks, and report daily check-in and checkout numbers.

Hotels will also be required to report non-compliant guests.

-With files from The Canadian Press