Non-essential travellers coming into Canada through land borders will soon have to show a negative COVID-19 test.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that starting on February 15 a negative PCR test within the last 72 hours will be required at land border crossings just like for air travellers.
"It is not legal to refuse entry to any Canadian who wants to come home," said Trudeau. "What we can do, in cases of no test to show, apply a stiff penalty, a fine, and demand and ensure a rapid and complete follow-up to make sure that they are getting tested, that they are being properly quarantined, that they are not putting at risk the safety of other Canadians by returning home without a clear negative test."
Travellers could face fines of up to $3,000 if they show up at the border without proof of a negative test.
Travellers will still be required to quarantine for 14 days upon returning to Canada.
Non-essential travel at land borders between Canada and the United States has been prohibited since March 2020.
