Fully vaccinated Canadians taking short trips abroad will soon no longer need proof of a negative COVID-19 molecular test to return home, say sources. Government sources said they are only dropping the testing requirement for Canadians and permanent residents for trips lasting less than 72 hours. Molecular tests, like the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, will still be required for trips longer than 72 hours.

By DESIBUZZCanada Staff With News Files

OTTAWA - The Justin Trudeau government has decided to give day-trippers to the US and short-term visitors abroad a break by removing the expensive COVID-19 test.

Fully vaccinated Canadians taking short trips abroad will soon no longer need proof of a negative COVID-19 molecular test to return home, say sources.

Government sources said they are only dropping the testing requirement for Canadians and permanent residents for trips lasting less than 72 hours.

Molecular tests, like the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, will still be required for trips longer than 72 hours.

The change is expected to come into effect at the end of the month as cross-border shopping picks up before the holidays.

The news was first reported by La Presse.

The federal government has been facing mounting pressure to drop the rule requiring travellers entering Canada to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of their departing flight or planned arrival at the land border. 

People have reported shelling out between $150 and $300 for a test, depending on their point of departure. Many have complained that it can take 24 hours — sometimes longer — for travellers to get their results.

The U.S. government has taken a different approach with fully vaccinated air travellers entering that country as they only have to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test, but travellers can opt for a rapid antigen test — which costs as little as $20 and provides quick results. The US requires no proof of COVID-19 test at land borders.