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Important note for expats and expats-to-be:

Canada is divided into ten provinces and three territories. Each has its health authority to consult for COVID-19 measures. The information in this article is for Canada as a whole with provincial and territorial examples.ÌýÌý

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Generalities

How does Canada do physical distancing?Ìý

Networking is one of the expats' actions that contribute the most to a successful transition from the early days of arrival to a host country to the settlement and establishment of a new home. At a time of COVID-19, meeting new people or getting to know your colleagues better through social events outside of work is not going to be business as usual. While The World Health Organisation recommends staying a minimum of one metre apart from others, in line with the global physical distancing guidelines, Canada is one of the few countries that advises citizens to keep a distance of at least two metres.Ìý

Indubitably, physical distancing is one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Hence, the Canadian government urges people to adjust their everyday routines to minimise close contact with others. Some of the guidelines include avoiding crowded places, incorporating no-touch greetings, conducting virtual work meetings, and keeping in touch with friends and family virtually. It may not be easy, but physical distancing doesn't make networking impossible thanks to technology and platforms such as ½ûÂþÌìÌÃ, which keep us connected despite physical boundaries.Ìý

Studies suggest that measures of physical distancing are more efficient when switched on and off repeatedly. Thus, according to epidemiologists, physical distancing in Canada is expected to be part of everyday life until 2022. The on-off physical distancing is known as dynamic physical distancing, and the idea behind it is to last longer but allow populations and the economy to take breaks. For example, out of the next two years, Canadians may end up spending 16 months following physical distancing measures (i.e. school closures, work-from-home, cancellation of group activities) to cut daily contacts by 60%.ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý

Formalities

Has COVID-19 led to changes in Canada's immigration policies?

Travellers arriving directly from the United States are allowed to enter Canada for non-discretionary purposes. But visitors, temporary workers, and international students must consult the Government of Canada website for up to date travel information during the COVID-19 pandemic.Ìý

Workers can enter Canada only if they hold a valid work permit and their standard residency is in Canada, have a letter of introduction for a work permit, or have a valid job offer. It's important to note that once in Canada, a worker can go to work after completing the 14-day quarantine unless authorised otherwise. It is possible for immediate family members (i.e. spouse, dependent child, parent) to also enter Canada, as long as they have on top of all other required documentation the one-time use written authorisation confirming that they are exempt from the travel restrictions. The government strictly advises travellers not to book a flight to Canada until they obtain their written authorisation. Workers arriving in Canada without a work permit will be allowed in the country only if they deliver or repair medical equipment, are air or marine crew members, provide emergency service, are healthcare students, or aquaculture workers.Ìý

To enter Canada as an international student, you must have a valid study permit, and the institution you are enrolled in must be on the list of the designated learning institutions (DLI) across Canada that are reopening to international students. DLI have received approval from the province or territory they are in after committing to a COVID-19 readiness plan. If your study program has been cancelled or suspended, you should not travel to Canada unless you can prove that your trip falls under essential travel.Ìý

All travellers to Canada must use the application ArriveCAN to submit their travel and contact information, quarantine plan, and COVID-19 symptom self-assessment. This information is required to enter Canada, and you must present the ArriveCAN receipt must to border officers upon arrival.Ìý

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Can you get married while COVID-19 measures are in place?ÌýÌý

Canada is divided into ten provinces, and each province has a local government which puts together regulations and procedures. Hence, marriage services during the COVID-19 crisis differ from one province to another. For example, in Toronto, the capital of Ontario province, marriage licences are issued by appointment only, and current wedding chamber bookings are cancelled, whereas new wedding bookings are not accepted. The city is encouraging couples to consider postponing their wedding ceremony to a later date since event spaces and halls are currently closed and in-door dining at food premises is prohibited.

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British Columbia, which at the time of writing is in a state of emergency, does not allow any wedding receptions, including receptions outside homes and at public or community-based venues. Wedding ceremonies may proceed with a maximum of ten people, including the officiant. Also, a COVID-19 safety plan must be in place. At this point, it's worth mentioning that virtual marriages aren't legal according to the Marriage Act. The physical presence of both parties, the officiant, and the two witnesses is required.Ìý

If you are postponing your wedding due to COVID-19 to a later date when your marriage licence has expired, you are entitled to a refund. For more information, couples can call at 250-952-2681 or toll-free within British Columbia 1-888-876-1633.Ìý

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Visas

What has changed in visa applications due to COVID-19?

There are no significant changes regarding visa requirements for entry to Canada, but travellers must be aware that they will have to bring evidence of meeting the eligibility requirements to travel during the pandemic. Currently, the authorities of Canada are prioritising applications from people who are eligible to travel to Canada during the pandemic, but accurate processing times cannot be given. At the same time, all visitor visa or eTA prospective applicants are welcomed to apply, but they must wait for the travel restrictions to be waived before they travel to Canada with a valid visa.Ìý

For more information on work and student visas, see FAQ: Has COVID-19 led to changes in Canada's immigration policies? (FORMALITIES)

Working Holiday Visa bearers can enter Canada if they have a valid job offer from a business that continues to operate during the pandemic. Also, the employer must provide a letter stating that allows the visa holder to start work after the 14-day mandatory quarantine. Officers at the border will ask for a proof of adequate health insurance (private or employer-based) and may deny entry into Canada, if not provided. The coverage must be valid for the entire stay in Canada and include hospitalisation, as well as the cost of returning to the policy holder's home country.ÌýÌý

The points-based Express Entry system for skilled workers that invites the highest-ranking candidates from the pool to apply for permanent residence continues to operate despite the COVID-19 crisis.Ìý

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Work

What is the impact of COVID-19 on Canada's labour market?Ìý

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted Canadian economy drastically and caused uncertainty in Canada's labour market. According to OECD, in May 2020 — only three months since the first COVID-19 case was reported in Canada, —, unemployment in Canada reached an unprecedented high of 13.7%. Prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Canadian labour market was performing well. In fact, in 2019, unemployment was at 5.7%, which was the lowest rate in the past 40 years.ÌýÌý

Recent research by the shows that COVID-19 affected mostly the young and less-educated workers, as well as workers who work in proximity with their coworkers. Self-employed individuals are also negatively affected. On the other hand, essential workers (e.g. workers in food and agriculture, emergency services, transportation, healthcare, government, communications, water management, residential facilities) and workers who can shift to remote employment instantaneously (e.g. workers in hi-tech firms) are significantly less impacted by the pandemic.ÌýÌý

COVID-19 is expected to accelerate automation in the labour market, especially in the sector of goods production and services. Automation will reduce employees' exposure to the virus and will resolve issues during future lockdowns. The OECD estimates that 45.6% of jobs in Canada are vulnerable to automation, of which 15% are at high risk to become automated.ÌýÌý

In October 2020, tourism-related employment decreased by 70,400 (or 4.1%). It is expected for tourism operations to drop after the summer months, but in October 2019, the decrease was just 0.8%, as opposed to this year's 4.1%.Ìý

It is worth mentioning that regardless of the sector and the status of the employee (national, expat or immigrant), an issue for many workers is the shutdown across Canada of daycares and schools.

Is Canada open to digital nomads during the COVID-19 pandemic?Ìý

Digital nomads can arrive in Canada on a tourist visa. At the time of writing, they are welcomed to apply, but they must wait for the COVID-19 travel restrictions to be waived before they travel to Canada.Ìý

Other programs Canada offers for digital nomads are the self-employed program for the cultural and athletics sectors, the start-up visa program, and the immigrant entrepreneur program. Currently, COVID-19 doesn't affect the grant of the visas related to the above-mentioned programs. However, the health check and quarantine protocol remain in place.Ìý

Study

How do kindergartens and schools operate in Canada during the pandemic?Ìý

Under the jurisdiction of the Canadian Constitution, each province and territory is given the green light to make its own decision about schools' operations during the pandemic. However, nationwide, the priority is to keep schools open and classes to be held in person with only a few exceptions of hybrid or remote learning options. In Quebec, which has nearly half of Canada's cases and two-thirds of its deaths, in-person attendance is largely required. At the time of writing, out of Ontario's 4,828 schools, 670 schools have at least one reported COVID-19 case, and four schools are closed.ÌýÌýÌýÌý

While resisting the blanket closures for the sake of Canada's economy and students' education and mental health, officials have plans in place to isolate sick students, quarantine classes hit by the virus, offer mental health support, and enact temporary closures.Ìý

The government has given comprehensive guidance to administrators of schools up to grade 12 (K-12) to support teachers, parents, students, and other members of staff to create a safe in-school environment during the pandemic. Some of the recommended measures include minimising close and prolonged interactions among students. Schools are responsible for promoting hand and respiratory hygiene, increasing ventilation and reducing the staff-to-child ratio, especially in classes for younger children. In practice, schools postpone assemblies and field trips, allow only one guardian to drop-off and pick-up children, increase desk distances, place floor markings, and implement physical barriers in common areas such as libraries and cafeterias. It is also up to the school to decide whether it will stop musical activities with wind and brass instruments, which are known to increase the risk of COVID-19 transmission.Ìý

Regarding masks, it is again up to the discretion of each province to decide. Wearing a mask is highly recommended for middle and secondary school students in high traffic areas, and in Ontario's childcare centres, all staff are required to wear medical masks and eye protection. British Columbia has made masks mandatory in schools for students from the age of 11 and above in crowded areas where physical distancing is often disregarded.ÌýÌýÌý

Students who have travelled abroad or arrive from abroad must follow the guidelines for quarantining before going back to school.Ìý

Are universitiesÌýopen for in-person learning during the pandemic?Ìý

As of October, 20, Canada reopened its borders to international students from all countries under overly clear conditions. One, students must hold a study permit from a Designated Learning Institution, approved by the provincial or territorial government as having a COVID-19 readiness plan. Two, students arriving in Canada must use the application ArriveCAN to submit their travel and contact information, quarantine plan, and COVID-19 symptom self-assessment.Ìý

At the time of writing, 706 post-secondary institutions are on the government's Designated Learning Institutions list (DLI). Of these, 427 institutions are in Quebec, 81 in British Columbia, 74 in Ontario, 51 in Alberta, and 24 in Nova Scotia. The list will be updated again on December 1st.Ìý

Institutions across the country have the freedom to decide how they wish to proceed with their study programs during the pandemic. For example, the Emily Carr University of Art Design in British Columbia will deliver 70% of its courses online and 30% as a mix of online and in-person learning up to the end of spring term, which begins in January 2021. Alberta's provincial government has banned artistic performances on campus but not arts and music classes which are part of the curriculum.Ìý

Immediate family members are also allowed to enter Canada to support students to make the transition to the new country and student life abroad.Ìý

Students with soon-to-expire study permits can still apply for an extension of their study permit, post-graduation work permit (PGWP) within 180 days from the day they obtain their degree or transcript or change their status to a visitor.Ìý

Taking into consideration the travel restrictions due to COVID-19, students whose study program has been cancelled or suspended may not be allowed to enter Canada.

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Accommodation

What is the picture of the Canadian home sales market throughout COVID-19?Ìý

From January 2020 to October, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) has recorded 461,818 home sales —Ìýan 8.6% increase compared to last year. It may sound bizarre, taking into consideration that COVID-19 has injured the global economy alarmingly, and the unemployment rate in Canada has doubled. However, it begins to make sense when the following factors are assessed: low-interest rates, COVID-19 government support, flexible mortgage payments, reevaluated importance of personal space during the lockdown. In other words, the lower rates have increased demand while supply remains low thanks to flexible mortgage payments offered by the banks due to COVID-19. Of course, the upward trend in sales and prices is not guaranteed for the following months, and it also depends on the future waves of COVID-19, the recovery speed of the economy, and the flow of expats and immigrants to Canada after the travel restrictions are lifted.Ìý

During the pandemic, realtors have also observed a change of preference among buyers in Canada. These days, when the work-from-home has become a common thing, buyers aren't necessarily looking for houses which are close to their workplace or public transport. Instead, a backyard, an office room, a quiet neighbourhood, a bright living room are priorities.Ìý

Home prices have risen by 15.2% (October 2020 stats) compared to October 2019. The national average is at CAD 607,250 — a price highly influenced by two of Canada's most expensive housing markets: Greater Vancouver and Greater Toronto Area. If these areas are excluded from the calculations, the average price will immediately drop by at least CAD 127,000.Ìý

Bank

How do Canadian banks operate during COVID-19?

In a joint effort with the government and health officials, banks in Canada have implemented a series of programs to ensure that branches and offices remain safe for employees and customers. For example, customer-service workers are paid bonuses for putting themselves at higher risk of contracting COVID-19, and wherever possible, employees are assisted in working remotely.Ìý

Most banks run campaigns encouraging clients to do their banking online or at the ATM and avoid visiting branches to maintain the principle of physical distancing. Customers can deposit cheques, view account balances, transfer money, pay bills, lock credit cards, and send money globally through online banking or from their mobile device. To popularise digital banking, HSBC Canada has increased transaction limits for bill payments, contactless payments, and ATM withdrawals. Scotia Bank has temporarily stopped passbook services in branch, and customers are advised to switch to eStatements or download the app.

At the time of writing, most branches across the country are gradually reopening after being closed for several months. Certainly, changes have been applied for the health and safety of employees and customers. It is advisable for customers to check with their bank (usually on the website's branch locator) if and when their nearest branch is open to avoid inconvenience.Ìý

Customers must note that according to the bank's regulations, a face mask may be required in branches.ÌýÌý

What should you be aware of when banking during COVID-19?

The banks of Canada in collaboration with the Government of Canada have delivered the Canada Emergency Benefit to more than 2.8 million Canadians. Scammers, claiming they are from a government agency, are taking advantage of this alliance and COVID-19, and are sending fraudulent texts and emails telling customers that they have received the Canada Emergency Response Befit (CERB). You must be very cautious and sceptical before giving out personal information and bank details to third parties.Ìý

Tax

Have the deadlines for tax returns passed?

Due to COVID-19, the Canada Revenue Agency did extend the payment due date for 2019 individual tax returns and 2019/2020 corporation and trust returns, as well as for instalment payments. The new date was September 30, 2020.Ìý

Does the Canada Revenue Agency consider income tax issues on a case by case basis?

Due to the travel restrictions (often ordered by another country), some taxpayers are facing income tax issues. In this case, the CRA will consider dealing with the problem on a case by case basis. For example, an individual who is currently in Canada, and has been in Canada for 183 days or more in a tax year, he or she won't be deemed to be resident, if the reason for not being able to leave Canada is solely the COVID-19 travel restrictions.Ìý

Does the Canada Revenue Agency accept applications for an individual tax number (ITN)?

The CRA cannot process applications for an ITN, but individuals can apply for it by completing the T1261 form for an ITN for non-residents and following the mailing instructions. Applicants should tick the box indicating the reason for the application, which will help officials decide whether an application is high-priority or not. For urgent matters, applicants can call at 1-800-959-8281.Ìý

In spite of the email being involved with risks of fraud, the CRA is temporarily allowing applications and requests to be sent by email as an emergency measure during the pandemic.

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What COVID-19 benefits are delivered by the Canada Revenue Agency?

Since the beginning of the pandemic, many Canadian residents rely on temporary income support. In addition to the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), the government has introduced four benefits, which are delivered through a simple process by the Canada Revenue Agency. Those are the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) for employees who have stopped working or had their employment income reduced by 50% or more due to COVID-19, the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB), the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB), and the most recently introduced Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) for businesses, non-profits, and charities.

Eligible people can apply online through the CRA's My Account portal (after ensuring that their account is up-to-date) or through automated toll-free phone lines at 1-800-959-2019 or 1-800-959-2041.

Health care

Who is getting tested for COVID-19 in Canada?Ìý

As of November 30, 2020 there are 378,139 COVID-19 cases in total out of 11,475,642 tests and 12,130 deaths. Most cases have been reported in Quebec (142,371), Ontario (116,492), Alberta (58,177), British Columbia (33,238), and Manitoba (16,825).ÌýÌý

Canada's Chief Public Health Officer in collaboration with the provincial and territorial Chief Medical Officers of Health ensure that COVID-19 cases are quickly identified and managed. Healthcare professionals decide who should be tested based on the person's symptoms, underlying medical conditions, and risk of exposure to the virus. To detect and diagnose COVID-19 healthcare professionals use molecular polymerase chain reaction tests (PCR), which are performed through a nose or throat swab, or saliva sample collection. At-home test kits aren't authorised in Canada for the diagnosis of COVID-19.Ìý

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What is the Canadian healthcare system doing to maintain and improve the mental health and personal well-being of the population?

Anxiety about the future and worry about the impact of COVID-19 on our everyday lives are very likely to manifest as poor mental health symptoms during the pandemic. If you are in distress, you should call 9-1-1 or go to their nearest for help.Ìý

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Is Christmas holiday travelling allowed during the pandemic?Ìý

The government of Canada advises that the safest way to celebrate these holidays is with members of your immediate household. If you meet with people outside of your immediate family, you should check with the provincial authority what are the local guidelines regarding gathering size limits and events.Ìý

You are advised to celebrate through lower-risk activities such as indoor gatherings only with members of the immediate household, virtual celebrations, and drop-off gift exchanges.Ìý

Non-essential travel outside Canada is strongly advised against until further notice, as well as non-essential travel within Canada — especially to provinces or territories that have a high number of cases. Travellers must also consider the risks associated with their mode of transportation.Ìý

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Driver's licence

Can you obtain a driver's licence in Canada now?Ìý

There are no changes in the process of obtaining a valid driver's licence in Canada. However, examination centres may be operating with a limited number of staff members while following strict COVID-19 health and safety measures.Ìý

Ontario has extended driver's license expiration dates to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and ease people who want to avoid coming in touch with others. In Nova Scotia, individuals can renew their licence for passenger vehicles, motorcycles, and farm tractors anytime within the last six months of its validity.Ìý

Communications

How do Canadian telecom companies respond to the surge in demand for their services during the COVID-19 pandemic?Ìý

Telecommunications are considered an essential service. Therefore the stores of telecom companies remain open during the pandemic.ÌýÌý

Since the beginning of the pandemic, Rogers Communications, one of Canada's largest telecom companies, has reported 50% rise in internet usage; 40% rise in voice calls, and 300% rise in 1-800 toll-free calls. According to the company, its customers are making more than 50 million wireless voice calls daily. To help its customers during this unprecedented year, Rogers has lifted usage caps for home internet plans, eliminated cell phone overage charges, waived national long-distance calling fees and roaming fees.Ìý

Over the past months, Telus, a Vancouver-based telecom colossal, is consistently experiencing four times the network traffic of its busiest pre-COVID-19 day. As part of its COVID-19 support, the company is not disconnecting customers and has waived fees for low-income families and students. Depending on regional health and safety measures, some Telus stores may have to remain closed or only provide limited services such as repairs and SIM card swaps.ÌýÌý

Xplornet Communications, Canada's largest broadband solution company to customers in rural areas, has also reported up to 40% rise in daytime internet use. The company has temporary suspended overage fees to support its customers during the pandemic.Ìý

Leisure

Are shops, bars, and restaurants open in Canada during the pandemic?Ìý

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Canada has a COVID-19 colour code warning system. The green level means loosened restrictions; yellow means increased measures such as the limited volume of music in retail stores and malls, the prohibition of alcohol serving or selling after 10 or 11 P.M., and mandatory face coverings at recreation facilities. The orange level has even more enhanced restrictions such as limiting working hours for businesses and limiting capacity in shops. Last, the red level means the closure of cinemas and performing arts spaces, limiting public events and social gatherings to five people indoors and 25 outdoors, minimising capacity at indoor diners and gyms.ÌýÌýÌý

At the time of writing, several regions in Quebec are orange and red. Hence, in Montréal, private indoor and outdoor gatherings are prohibited, and dining rooms are closed except for take-out and drive-through orders. Also, bars, breweries, and casinos are closed, as well as performance venues, libraries (apart from those in education institutions), spas, cinemas, theatres, and museums. As of November 23, 2020, Toronto restaurants operate only for take-out, drive-through, and delivery. Indoor dining is allowed only at hospitals and airports. At the same time, entertainment venues and clubs in Toronto remain closed, as well as movie theatres. Gyms can operate with a maximum of ten people. Calgary in Alberta has restricted the opening hours for bars and restaurants, ordering the end of alcohol serving by 10 P.M. and total closure of the venue by 11 P.M. Indoor social gatherings, even in private homes, are prohibited, and outdoor social gatherings are limited to ten people. Most retail businesses, movie theatres, museums, and libraries in Alberta are open with capacity limited to 25% of the regular capacity. Indoor fitness centres, yoga and dance studios, martial arts, and swimming pools are open only for individual training —Ìýgroup classes are prohibited.ÌýÌýÌýÌý

For bars and restaurants that are open, the government recommends single-use paper menus or menu boards and single-serve versions of table items. Also, businesses should consider installing automatic doors, lights, and taps to limit touchpoints.

How do farmers markets operate in Canada during COVID-19?Ìý

Farmers markets are a favourite pastime among Canadian people who wish to connect with their community while doing their weekly fruit and veg shopping. Unless ordered otherwise by the provincial or territorial authorities, farmers markets are advised to operate under specific COVID-19 regulations. For example, markets must have a single entry and exit point to control the number of people entering, which must not exceed a specified maximum. Besides, markets must not have communal tables and sitting areas; should encourage contactless payments, and must increase the spacing between vendors' booths.ÌýÌý

What leisure activities are allowed in Canada during COVID-19?Ìý

Outdoor activities that are carried out responsibly and follow public health regulations are allowed even when some of the most severe measures take place. Residents can undertake individual, non-organised recreation at lakes, parks, and trails, as well as playgrounds and dog parks. Camping is allowed, and hunting and fishing lodges have reopened. Golf courses and outdoor gun ranges are also open.

Transport

Is travel within Canada permitted?Ìý

Yes, travel within Canada is possible by air, sea, and land. However, passengers may experience longer waiting times or service interruptions due to COVID-19 measures. During the journeys, passengers and staff members of the transportation industry must maintain physical distancing, avoid touchpoints as much as possible, and wear a non-medical mask or face cover when required.Ìý

How does the Canadian transportation system operate during the pandemic?

Air travel requires travellers to wear a non-medical mask or face covering when the two-metre distance cannot be maintained. More specifically, at airport screening checkpoints and during flight. Children under the age of two and individuals who cannot wear a mask due to medical reasons (a medical certificate is required) should not wear a mask.

Ferries require passengers to have non-medical masks or face coverings at hand and wear them when physical distancing is not possible. Leisure boat trips are allowed, but passengers and crew members must consult the provincial or territorial guidelines.Ìý

Rail companies operate independently and therefore, have the authority to create their own policies, as long as they prioritise the safety of operations, passengers, and employees. Rail carriers such as VIA Rail have implemented stricter cleaning protocols in stations and trains and have reduced the number of occupied seats per carriage. Also, meals are served in disposable plates and glasses and individually wrapped. Passengers who are not complying with the regulations may be denied boarding.ÌýÌýÌýÌý

Similarly, bus companies have implemented COVID-19 health and safety measures, and passengers must have a mask or face cover within reach before boarding, during the journey, and while getting off.Ìý

Regardless of the means of transport, passengers may be subjected to health checks and denied boarding if unwell.ÌýÌý

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Removal

Are moving services available in Canada during the pandemic?

In general, it is advised to postpone a move if possible, especially for people who are in one of the high-risk groups. Yet, moving services and warehouse storage are considered essential businesses and in spite of COVID-19 are open. However, due to restrictions and the unpredictability of the pandemic, the services may be limited. Thus, families and individuals who are moving during the pandemic, they should check with the local health authority first for applicable lockdown measures and then contact the moving company for booking well in advance.ÌýÌý

What is the safest way to move?

If you don't have heavy furniture and can carry your belongings, you should move with your own vehicle, without the help of friends, and only with the presence of your immediate household. Regardless of whether you proceed with the help of professional movers, friends, or just by yourself, it is important to wash or sanitise your hands frequently, wear a mask when in proximity to other people, and have a time-efficient moving plan. If you need to buy homeware, the safest option is online.Ìý

Can pets travel to Canada during COVID-19?

Relocating a pet can be complicated during this time, depending on the safety regulations of the country of departure and the airline. At this time, most airlines have limited flights that accept pets. Many animal lounges around the world aren't open — meaning that pets can take only direct flights — and smaller airports aren't accepting pets' arrivals at all. Canada's borders are still open only for essential travel, and therefore pets can enter the country only if their owners are Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or essential workers.Ìý