As of March 13, 2020, there was a travel warning to avoid “all non-essential travel” for all destinations outside of Canada.

As a result, travellers were not covered by emergency medical insurance for illness or injury related to COVID-19.

From now on, this notice is lifted for fully vaccinated people.

Now, here is what the Government of Canada warns us of:

You should be fully vaccinated by completing a COVID-19 vaccine series in Canada or abroad at least 14 days before travelling. Be aware that although you are better protected against serious illness if you are vaccinated, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. If you’re unvaccinated, you remain at increased risk of being infected with and spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 when travelling internationally. You should continue avoiding non-essential travel to all destinations.

Gouvernement du Canada

Regardless of your vaccination status:

• stay informed of COVID-19 activity at your destination,
• use personal protective measures (like wearing a mask, washing hands and maintaining physical distancing where possible)
• follow any additional local public health measures while travelling
• avoid all cruise ship travel outside of Canada
• check Canadian travel requirements

This has a major impact on insurance. Now, if you are fully vaccinated, you can rely on your credit cards travel insurance.

The majority of these had been suspended as a result of the Government’s warning. Only a few private travel insurances offered medical coverage.

In any case, don’t hesitate to contact your credit card issuer BEFORE you leave to make sure you are covered by medical insurance. And get your Canadian proof of vaccination for travel!

Come and discuss this in our Facebook group and subscribe to our free newsletter so you don’t miss anything!