Segun Akanni, Toronto, Canada 
A global advisory against all non-essential travel outside Canada that has been in effect since March of 2020 has been lifted for those who are vaccinated.
New advice includes being fully vaccinated before travelling abroad at least 14 days before travelling, wearing a mask, washing hands, maintaining physical distancing and following local public health measures.
“Be aware that although you are better protected against serious illness if you are vaccinated, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19,” the government’s Travel Advice and Advisory website reads.
If you’re not vaccinated, the federal government advises people to stay home since you’re at an increased risk of being infected with and spreading the virus when travelling internationally.
Unvaccinated people should continue avoiding non-essential travel to all destinations. Canada still advises avoiding all cruise ship travel outside of the country.
This quiet lift comes the same day the government announced a new pan-Canadian vaccine passport for domestic and international travel, which will be issued through the provinces and territories, as they have access to the immunization records.
Starting Oct. 30, travellers departing from Canadian airports and travelling on Canadian trains will need to prove they are fully vaccinated. Those under 12 who are not eligible for the vaccine will be exempt, but for adults, there will be very few exceptions made.
A mandate for employees of federally regulated air, rail, and marine transportation sectors comes into effect the same day. In the interim period, officials say the provincial proof of immunization card will be accepted.
