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Everything B.C. residents need to know about the new travel rules starting July 1

Are you ready to travel outside of B.C.?
Elana Shepert
Elana Shepert
airport COVID mask flight
Dr. Bonnie Henry announced on June 29, 2021, that B.C. will move into Step 3 of the four-step restart plan on July 1. B.C. residents may enjoy Canada-wide travel. Photo: Getty Images

Are you ready to enjoy Canada-wide travel?

Provincial officials announced Tuesday (June 29) in a press briefing that B.C. will move into Step 3 of the four-step restart plan on July 1, 2021.

Now, British Columbians many enjoy travel across Canada rather than only within B.C. The province will also welcome travellers from other provinces to visit B.C.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has laid out travel manners and guidelines for everyone travelling within B.C.:

  • getting vaccinated
  • pre-trip planning and research before arriving at the destination 
  • respecting any local travel advisories to isolated and remote communities and Indigenous communities
  • following mask guidelines
  • respecting personal space and practicing good hygiene, including frequent handwashing
  •  no travelling for anyone who is sick, and if symptoms develop while travelling - self isolate immediately and contact 811 for guidance and testing
dr-bonnie-henry-canada-wide-travel-july-1.jpgPhoto via Government of B.C.

Everything fully vaccinated travellers need to know about Canada's new travel requirements 

Are you fully vaccinated?

While numerous Canadians have received one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, many others are anxious about when they can roll up their sleeves for a second shot — especially after the federal government announced that fully vaccinated travellers may enter the country quarantine-free.

Beginning July 5 at midnight, fully vaccinated travellers who are permitted to enter Canada will not be subject to the federal requirement to quarantine or take a COVID-19 test on day-8. Additionally, fully vaccinated travellers arriving by air will not be required to stay at a government-authorized hotel.

To be considered fully vaccinated, a traveller must have received the full series of a vaccine — or combination of vaccines — accepted by the Government of Canada at least 14 days prior to entering Canada.

Currently, the Government of Canada advises against recreational travel outside of the country.

Find out everything you need to know about travel for fully vaccinated travellers.