The government of Canada reintroduced random testing for COVID-19 at international airports in Canada on July 19. Testing had been since June 11 this year.

Testing was brought back for international arrivals in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary airports as the country deals with another wave of coronavirus. Canada’s government says it is committed to streamlining testing processes and preventing the spread of the virus.

"As we have said all along, Canada's border measures will remain flexible and adaptable, guided by science and prudence,” said Canada’s minister of health, Jean-Yves Duclos. “We need to keep border testing measures in place because that is how we track importation of the COVID-19 virus, and of new variants of concern. We will keep adapting our border measures to balance the need to protect Canadians while supporting our economic recovery."

If a traveller is randomly selected for a test, they will receive an email notification within 15 minutes of completing their customs declaration. The email will explain how to arrange for a test as it will not be done on-site at the airport. Some tests may be done through a virtual appointment for a self-swab test.

Travellers may be selected regardless of their vaccination status. To be considered fully vaccinated, travellers must have either two doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine or one dose of Johnson & Johnson.

All travellers must continue to use the ArriveCAN app to provide mandatory travel information, such as proof of vaccination, within 72 hours of their arrival in Canada.

Travellers who enter the country without being fully vaccinated are still subject to a 14-day quarantine but are permitted to visit select pharmacies or testing sites to complete their test. Fully vaccinated travellers will not need to quarantine while they wait for test results, which they should have within four days.

Travellers who test positive are required to isolate for 10 days, even if the recommended isolation period in their province is shorter.

The government strongly recommends that travellers book their tests within 24 hours of arriving. Canadians who enter the country and need to catch a connecting flight may do so but will need to book a test once they reach their destination. A government representative may call within five days of arrival in Canada and receiving the email. If the test is not completed by then, travellers may have to pay a fine