Today, the federal government announced new measures to keep Canadians safe from COVID-19 and the Omicron variant of concern. These new measures include advising against all non-essential international travel and increased capacity for mandatory testing upon arrival in Canada.

The government has also reinstated the requirement for a negative PCR test result for all travellers returning to the country, even if the trip was less than 72 hours.

We have made significant progress against COVID-19, but the pandemic is not over. With the emergence of the Omicron variant, it is important we take swift action to protect Canadians.

That's why, effective today, our government is officially advising Canadians, regardless of their vaccination status, to avoid non-essential travel outside the country. These measures are intended to limit the transmission of the Omicron variant in Canada, and to protect the health and safety of Canadians.

If you are planning a trip, your return to Canada following international travel could be severely restricted due to the spread of the Omicron variant and you could have limited access to timely and appropriate health care should you become ill abroad.

Collectively and individually, we all have a role to play. We must all follow public health guidelines including limiting contacts, wearing a mask, and getting vaccinated.

You can read more about this travel health notice here.

For up-to-date information regarding travel, testing and borders in Canada, click here.