Maple News reports that starting February 22, travelers arriving in Canada by air will be required to quarantine in a government-approved hotel for up to three days at their own expense—estimated at approximately $2,000. This new mandate is part of strengthened border measures aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19 and monitoring new variants of the virus.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed the policy during a February 12 press conference, explaining that the hotel quarantine is to allow time for more accurate PCR test results to be processed upon arrival. Unlike rapid tests, PCR tests provide a higher level of detection and reliability.
Travellers arriving by air must take a PCR test at the airport on entry, in addition to providing proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken before departure. If the airport test result comes back negative, travelers may be allowed to complete the rest of their mandatory 14-day quarantine at home—provided they have an approved quarantine plan.
Only four Canadian airports—Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal—are accepting international flights. Upon landing, travelers will be escorted to a designated hotel where accommodations, meals, internet, and entertainment will be provided as part of the quarantine package.
In parallel, new requirements for land border crossers will take effect on February 15. Anyone entering Canada by land must present a negative test taken within 72 hours of arrival. Those who have previously tested positive for COVID-19 within 14 to 90 days before travel can provide that test result instead. Non-compliance with these rules could result in fines of up to $3,000 per day or even criminal charges.
Some exceptions apply: essential workers, including truck drivers, are not subject to the hotel quarantine rule or the new testing protocols.
All travelers must continue using the government’s ArriveCAN app to submit contact details and quarantine plans before arrival. This requirement helps Canadian authorities enforce health regulations and maintain public safety throughout the pandemic.
Canada’s border remains closed for non-essential travel. Only Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and certain foreign nationals—such as those reuniting with family or traveling for essential reasons—are permitted entry. As of now, these restrictions are in place until at least February 21, though further extensions are possible.
These added layers of protection reflect Canada’s ongoing efforts to manage a delicate balance between public health priorities and the gradual resumption of international travel.