British Columbians can get national proof of COVID-19 vaccination for travel

British Columbians who want to travel in Canada by air, train, or cruise ship can now access proof of vaccination. Travellers must show proof of full vaccination starting Saturday, Oct. 30.

You can get your federal proof of vaccination through the province’s online service, via phone, or in-person at Service BC offices. These are the same methods the used to access the B.C. vaccine passport.

The new federal travel rules will apply to people 12 years and older. Travellers must have received two doses of any federally approved COVID-19 vaccines, with the second dose administered at least 14 days before travel.

The Canadian government says there will be a “short transition period” for those who are in the process of being vaccinated during which they will be able to travel if they can show a negative COVID-19 molecular test, taken no more than 72 hours from their departure.

The transition period will end on Nov. 30, at which time all travellers will have to show they’ve been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, “with very limited exceptions to address specific situations such as emergency travel, and those medically unable to be vaccinated.”

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The new rules will apply to air travel within Canada, as well as trans-border or international flights leaving from Canadian airports; rail travel, including on VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineering trains, and marine travel on what the government describes as “non-essential passenger vessels” — like cruise ships — that are 24 hours or longer.

In addition to specific and limited exceptions for emergencies and medical reasons, the new vaccine mandate will also provide allowances for travellers from “small, remote communities (some of which are not accessible by road)” in order to ensure these people are able to travel for medical, health, or social well-being reasons. The federal government plans to consult with Indigenous organizations, provinces, and territories to fine tune this process.

As of Nov. 30, travellers will be required to use a new pan-Canadian vaccine passport, which will be issued through provinces and territories. The new proof of vaccination system will show the traveller’s name, date of birth, and which vaccines they got, as well as when they received them. Border agents and air operators will be able to scan a QR code to view this information.

Until the end of November, the B.C. vaccine card can be used to travel within Canada. That card is also the one used within this province to prove the owner has been vaccinated in order to access non-essential activities and services, such as restaurants, gyms, and sporting events.