All air travellers who are two years of age and older, arriving on flights originating from the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong or Macao, will need to provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than two days before their departure, to the airline before boarding. This rule will go into effect on January 5, 12:01 a.m. EST.

The test could be either a negative molecular (such as a PCR test) or a negative antigen test with documentation showing that a telehealth service or an accredited laboratory or testing provider has monitored it.

Passengers who tested positive more than ten days before their departure flight, but no more than 90 days, can provide the airline with documentation of their prior positive in place of a negative test result.

What are the consequences of not presenting a negative test result before travelling to Canada from China, Hong Kong and Macao?

Travelling during the global pandemic is a complex process that requires careful planning and adherence to specific requirements. As of May 2021, anyone travelling to Canada from China, Hong Kong, and Macao must present a negative COVID-19 test result before boarding their flight. Failure to do so can result in severe consequences.

The Canadian government, in an effort to control the spread of COVID-19, has made it mandatory for all international travellers to present a negative COVID-19 test result before entering the country. This test must be taken within 72 hours of the flight's departure time. Failure to present a negative test result may result in the denial of boarding by the airline, and in turn, the cancellation of their travel plans.

Moreover, if a traveller manages to board a flight without presenting a negative COVID-19 test result, they may face severe consequences upon arrival in Canada. They may be subjected to a mandatory quarantine period of up to 14 days at a designated facility, at their own expense. The traveller may also face hefty fines and even imprisonment for non-compliance with the Canadian government's travel regulations.

In addition, the consequences of not presenting a negative test result before travelling to Canada from China, Hong Kong and Macao will not only affect the individual traveller but also potentially other passengers on the flight. The risk of spreading the virus to other travellers on the plane or in the airport is significantly higher when someone is not following the necessary protocols.

In conclusion, not presenting a negative COVID-19 test result before travelling to Canada from China, Hong Kong, and Macao can result in severe consequences, including denial of boarding, cancellation of travel plans, mandatory quarantine, fines, and imprisonment. It is important to follow the necessary protocols to control the spread of COVID-19 and protect oneself and others.

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