COVID Rapid Testing Pilot Launches in Alberta on November 2
The Governments of Alberta and Canada are launching an expedited quarantine 26-week pilot project on November 2 to make YYC Calgary International Airport the exclusive airport for Canada’s first quarantine reduction program. Alberta residents and eligible international travellers who fly into Calgary on a non-stop flight can take a rapid test for COVID-19. If their COVID rapid test result is negative, travellers can possibly reduce their mandatory quarantine to as little as 2 day instead of the mandatory 14-day national quarantine. The pilot program includes travellers who are connecting to airports within Alberta as well as essential foreign travellers staying within the province for at least 14 days after arrival.
Crossing Borders by Land
The new rapid testing option will also be offered to international travellers at the Coutts land border crossing into the U.S. in southern Alberta.
“This is an important step in Alberta’s Recovery Plan. This new pilot program will allow those who need to travel for work to have a safe path to a shorter quarantine period. Since the start of this pandemic, Alberta’s government has highlighted the importance to protect lives and livelihoods. Today’s announcement does just that.”
- Jason Kenney, Premier of Alberta
Close Monitoring After Testing
After taking the rapid test, guests must:
- stay in the province of Alberta after their arrival
- begin their mandated quarantine until test results are delivered in as little as 2 days
- If the rapid test results are negative, travellers are no longer required to stay at home.
- If the results are positive, the 14-day quarantine is still required.
- commit to submitting a second test after 6-7 days for validation and data collection
- provide daily check-ins
- avoid large events and senior care facilities
- wear a mask in public
The pilot project may be changed, restricted or broadened at any point during the 26-week evaluation period.
Travellers who do not participate in the Alberta rapid test pilot must adhere to the national mandatory 14-day quarantine.
CONTACT ACKAH LAW BEFORE YOU FLY
Don't attempt to fly into Canada without making sure your paperwork is in order. COVID's impact on Canada immigration has affected individuals, families, big corporations and small business owners, and there can be confusion at the border or when trying to board a flight to Canada. An experienced immigration professional can help qualified travelers cross the border into Canada, and help prepare your immigration application.
For more information and solutions for immigration to Canada and crossing borders seamlessly to live and work in Canada or the United States, contact Ackah Business Immigration Law today at (403) 452-9515 Ext. 100 or 1-800-932-1190 or email us directly.
