People cross the U.S.-Canadian border after Canada opened the border to vaccinated Americans in Blaine, Washington, U.S. August 9, 2021. REUTERS David Ryder David Ryder
OTTAWA, Oct 21 Reuters - Canada's federal government and the 10 provinces have agreed on a standard COVID - 19 electronic vaccination passport allowing domestic and foreign travel, government officials told reporters on Thursday.
The deal prevents possible confusion that could be caused if each of the provinces - which have primary responsibility for health care - issued their own unique certificates. The officials spoke on the condition that they not be identified.
The document will have a major international identifying mark and meets federal health card standards.
Many countries have said they want to see a digital proof of vaccination, which is what we're delivering, said one official.
In addition, federal officials are talking to nations that are popular with Canadian travelers to brief them about the document.
The Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced earlier this month that people wishing to travel domestically by plane, train or ship would have to show proof of full vaccination.