Here's How To Set Up The ArriveCAN App So You're Good To Go When You're Ready To Travel

Anybody entering or returning to Canada must be prepared to learn how to use the ArriveCAN app.

That's because the federal government currently requires all incoming travellers (including Canadians) to use it to share personal information and documents related to COVID-19.

The app also enables people entering the country to upload their COVID-19 test results and two-week quarantine plan.

It's also the tool used by fully vaccinated Canadians to prove their vaccination status to border officials, which allows them to skip some travel measures.

Why will Canadians need proof of vaccination?

On July 5, the federal government eased a number travel measures for eligible fully vaccinated Canadians.

This means fully vaxxed Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are entering Canada (or returning to Canada from abroad), are allowed to skip restrictions like the two-week quarantine period and the day eight COVID-19 test.

To do this, they must be able to prove that they've received a full series of a Health-Canada-approved COVID-19 vaccine.

This is where the ArriveCAN app comes in.

How does the ArriveCAN app work?

Although it's not being referred to as a vaccine passport per se, the app will essentially work to prove that an individual has received the full course of a COVID-19 vaccine.

It will enable users to upload their proof of vaccination, in addition to any other supporting documents they may need to provide to enter Canada.

The proof of vaccination, quarantine plan and travel information must be entered into the app within 72 hours prior to arrival in Canada.

These details must be uploaded digitally in the ArriveCAN app and will only be accepted in English, French or a certified translation into English or French.

What information will I need to share?

In the ArriveCAN app, travellers must provide information about the first dose of their COVID-19 vaccine, including details about where and when they received it.

They must also share the details of their second dose (where required).

Photos or PDF files of the record of the vaccination must be uploaded, too. For example, this could be the receipt or confirmation card from the vaccinating organization.

Once a traveller has submitted all of the required information, they'll receive a receipt from ArriveCAN to show Canadian border services officers upon arrival. Users can present the app itself, a screenshot, an email or a printout.

"Final determination of your vaccination status will be made at the border," explains the Government of Canada.

How do I set it up?

ArriveCAN is available to download as a mobile app. Alternatively, travellers can create an account and sign in online.

For those who don't travel with a smartphone, the Government of Canada suggests using the website in advance and taking a printout of your receipt when you travel.

It's worth noting that fully vaccinated Canadians who fail to add the required information into the app will not be eligible for any restriction exemptions.

What about my privacy?

Any personal information provided through ArriveCAN is protected according to Canada's Privacy Act.

The app will only store information provided by the user and will not use "GPS or other technology on your mobile phone to track your location."