Travellers coming home to Canada do not need to get tested for covid at this time. But if you have been to a region where there is a lot of covid, then you may want to get tested for your own peace of mind.
Having said that, governments do change their entry requirements at short notice in response to changing infection levels. So make regular checks of the Government of Canada’s information about covid for travelers.
If you are travelling for work, check with your company’s occupational health department to find out more about covid testing requirements that you are expected to meet.
What is the most reliable covid test for returning travellers?
If as an inbound traveller you would like to get tested for covid, we offer a private covid testing service at our clinics. The results of our reliable covid tests are available within three to four hours.
Where can I get tested for covid?
To make an appointment for a covid test with Canadian Travel Clinics, simply select your nearest city and we’ll find you a covid testing clinic that is convenient to you.
If you prefer, you can book your covid testing appointment by phone on +1 888 672 0005.
We have plenty of appointments for covid testing, and we can offer appointments throughout the day. You can even make an appointment while you’re travelling so that you can go straight from the airport to your covid test.
What happens at a covid testing appointment?
Covid test appointments are very quick: most people are done within ten minutes. The test involves a swab of your nose and throat. Our lab will test the sample for covid-19. This test will tell you if you were infected with covid-19 when the test was performed.
Will I get a certificate showing my covid test result
We will issue a certificate with your covid test result. A certificate showing a negative covid test result can be used for travel.
What steps can I take to protect my family from covid-19?
Many people get tested for covid after a flight, particularly if they are returning from a place with a high incidence of covid-19. You may wish to get tested before visiting someone who is immunocompromised, or who is at a high risk from complications of covid-19.
All travellers should monitor themselves for covid symptoms before and after travelling.
Masking on public transport is not mandatory in Canada, but the government recommends it.
What should I do if I have covid symptoms or if I test positive for covid?
Anyone with symptoms should isolate themselves and get a covid test. Covid symptoms include:
- abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting
- aches
- fatigue
- feeling very unwell
- fever or chills
- headache
- new loss of smell or taste
- new or worsening cough
- runny nose and sneezing
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- sore throat
Check provincial or territorial requirements to work out what to do next if you have covid symptoms or a positive test result. This will tell you where to get guidance about self assessment and about covid testing near you.