Maple News reports that the Government of Ontario has launched a new COVID-19 screening pilot program at Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada’s busiest travel hub. Effective January 6, the initiative offers free, voluntary COVID-19 testing for incoming international travelers committed to staying in Ontario for 14 days or more.
Premier Doug Ford introduced the program at a press conference at Pearson Airport, emphasizing its importance in curbing the spread of the virus. With over 60,000 international travelers arriving at the airport weekly — including many international students, temporary foreign workers, and new permanent residents — provincial authorities aim to intercept potential cases early.
Passengers eligible for the program may either pre-register ahead of travel or enroll upon arrival. Those who volunteer to participate will receive a self-administered PCR test under supervision from a healthcare provider, either in-person or virtually. Testing takes place in a designated, controlled section within the airport, ensuring both convenience and safety.
Test results are expected within 48 hours and are shared through the Ontario Laboratory Information System. If test results show a positive case, local public health officials will follow up directly with the traveler. However, taking part in this testing program does not exempt participants from the federal government’s mandatory 14-day quarantine requirement.
Ontario’s new initiative complements a federal regulation that came into effect on January 7, requiring all travelers entering Canada to present a negative COVID-19 result from a test conducted within 72 hours prior to departure. Travellers must arrange this pre-departure testing independently at their location of origin.
The province has stated it is working closely with the federal government to explore potential modifications to quarantine protocols for travelers who test negative both before departure and on arrival.
This pilot represents a significant effort by Ontario to enhance public health measures at the border while continuing to support safe travel and immigration into Canada.