Travelling to Canada

Latest updates

As of January 15, 2022, most international students and work permit holders must be fully vaccinated to travel to Canada. Exceptions include international students under the age of 18 studying at approved institutions such as UBC.

As of June 20, 2022, proof of COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required to board flights and trains in Canada. Learn more about boarding flights, trains and cruise ships in Canada.

As of July 19, 2022, mandatory random arrival testing resumes for air travellers arriving in Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal and Toronto airports. Testing will take place outside of airports. See the July 14 news release for details.

Travel restrictions, testing and quarantine requirements may change without notice. Visit COVID-19: Travel, testing, and borders for updates. 

Last updated Thurs, Jul 21, 2022 at 4:14 pm PT

Overview

If you’re an international student planning to come to UBC, we are here to help.

There are important steps to take before you plan your trip. It’s important for you to carefully review the guide and understand the process and requirements before you travel.

Start the guide

Step 1. Check if you’re eligible to enter Canada

Check if you can travel before making travel arrangements. 

  • Understand travel documents you need.
  • Get advice on whether to travel.
  • Learn how the travel restrictions may impact you.
  • Consider when to travel.

Begin the first step

Step 2. Before you travel to Canada

Before you travel to Canada, you must make sure you prepare the right documents and have a quarantine plan for when you arrive.

  • Gather documents supporting essential travel.

  • Get a COVID-19 test (for unvaccinated travellers only),

  • Get a new immigration medical exam, if required.

  • Confirm your health insurance coverage.

Jump to Step 2 details

Step 3. Complete ArriveCan

All travellers must submit their information through ArriveCan. If you are not fully vaccinated, you must self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival and submit a self-isolation plan. 

  • Submit your personal details and quarantine plan (if required) through the ArriveCAN app (mandatory).
  • Read and follow provincial and federal guidelines for quarantine, if required.
  • Register for your on-arrival COVID-19 test at the airport or land border before travelling.

Jump to Step 3 details

Step 4. While you travel to Canada

Make sure you bring the right documents, know what to expect at the airport or border and follow arrival steps.

  • See documentation to bring.
  • Learn what to pack.
  • Know what to expect at the airport or border and ensure your study permit has conditions to work.
  • Get a COVID-19 test on arrival, if applicable.
  • Collect your day 8 COVID-19 test kit (for unvaccinated travellers only).

Jump to Step 4 details

Step 5. After arriving in Canada

There are a few things you need to do as soon as you arrive in Canada. 

  • Follow your quarantine plan (for unvaccinated travellers only).
  • Complete the take-home COVID-19 test kit on day 8 (for unvaccinated travellers only).
  • Apply for MSP and check that you have iMED.
  • Complete the after arrival checklist.
  • Learn about life in Canada.

Jump to Step 5 details

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