Last updated: June 26, 2020 9:30am PST
FINANCIAL SUPPORT QUESTIONS & INFORMATION
SUPPORT FOR INDIVIDUALS
UPDATE: Support for Seniors
Providing a one-time tax-free payment for those collecting OAS and/or GIS
The Government of Canada is providing a one-time tax-free payment of $300 for seniors eligible for the Old Age Security (OAS) pension, with an additional $200 for seniors eligible for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). The date for this payment is the week of July 6th.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
This measure would give a total of $500 to individuals who are eligible to receive both the OAS and the GIS, and will help them cover increased costs caused by COVID-19.
Temporarily extending the Guaranteed Income Supplement and Allowance payments
The Government of Canada is temporarily extending GIS and Allowance payments if seniors’ 2019 income information has not been assessed.
This will ensure that the most vulnerable seniors continue to receive their benefits when they need them the most. To avoid an interruption in benefits, seniors are encouraged to submit their 2019 income information as soon as possible and no later than by October 1, 2020.
Reduced minimum withdrawals for Registered Retirement Income Funds
We reduced the required minimum withdrawals from Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs) by 25 per cent for 2020.
Click here for more information on RRIF's:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/registered-retirement-income-fund-rrif.html
Providing a one-time tax-free payment for those collecting OAS and/or GIS
The Government of Canada is providing a one-time tax-free payment of $300 for seniors eligible for the Old Age Security (OAS) pension, with an additional $200 for seniors eligible for the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS). The date for this payment is the week of July 6th.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
- The cut-off date to be eligible for this payment is June 1st, 2020. If you are not eligible in OAS or GIS by this date, you will not receive this payment.
- There is no need to apply for the GIS/OAS top-up, it will be automatically applied to those eligible.
- If you have deferred collection of OAS/GIS, you will not receive this payment.
This measure would give a total of $500 to individuals who are eligible to receive both the OAS and the GIS, and will help them cover increased costs caused by COVID-19.
Temporarily extending the Guaranteed Income Supplement and Allowance payments
The Government of Canada is temporarily extending GIS and Allowance payments if seniors’ 2019 income information has not been assessed.
This will ensure that the most vulnerable seniors continue to receive their benefits when they need them the most. To avoid an interruption in benefits, seniors are encouraged to submit their 2019 income information as soon as possible and no later than by October 1, 2020.
Reduced minimum withdrawals for Registered Retirement Income Funds
We reduced the required minimum withdrawals from Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs) by 25 per cent for 2020.
Click here for more information on RRIF's:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/registered-retirement-income-fund-rrif.html
UPDATE: The Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB)
The Government of Canada will provide a taxable benefit of $2,000 a month for up to 4 months to eligible workers who have lost their income due to COVID-19.
There are two ways to apply:
Both of these services are available 21 hours a day, 7 days a week. Both services are closed from 3:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. (Eastern time) for maintenance.
Extra 8 weeks available – CERB extended from 16 weeks to 24 weeks for workers who:
Eligibility
The Benefit is available to workers:
When submitting subsequent claims, you cannot have earned more than $1,000 in employment and/or self-employment income for the entire four-week benefit period of your new claim.
Note: Federally regulated workers taking the new leave related to COVID-19 may be eligible for this benefit.
Return or repay CERB
You may want to return or repay the CERB if you:
You have the option to return or repay your CERB payment now.
If you still have the original CERB cheque
You can return the cheque by mail to the address below.
Mail your payment to
Revenue Processing – Repayment of CERB
Sudbury Tax Centre
1050 Notre Dame Avenue
Sudbury ON P3A 0C1
If you don't have the cheque or were paid by direct deposit
You can mail your repayment to the CRA.
Be sure to:
Mail your payment to
Revenue Processing – Repayment of CERB
Sudbury Tax Centre
1050 Notre Dame Avenue
Sudbury ON P3A 0C1
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND FAQ'S ON CERB:
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/cerb-application/questions.html
The Government of Canada will provide a taxable benefit of $2,000 a month for up to 4 months to eligible workers who have lost their income due to COVID-19.
There are two ways to apply:
- Online
- Over the phone with an automated phone service:
1-800-959-2019 or 1-800-959-2041
Both of these services are available 21 hours a day, 7 days a week. Both services are closed from 3:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. (Eastern time) for maintenance.
Extra 8 weeks available – CERB extended from 16 weeks to 24 weeks for workers who:
- stopped working due to COVID-19 or
- are eligible for Employment Insurance regular or sickness benefits or
- have exhausted their Employment Insurance regular benefits or Employment Insurance fishing benefits between December 29, 2019 and October 3, 2020.
Eligibility
The Benefit is available to workers:
- Residing in Canada, who are at least 15 years old;
- Who have stopped working because of reasons related to COVID-19 or are eligible for Employment Insurance regular or sickness benefits or have exhausted their Employment Insurance regular benefits or Employment Insurance fishing benefits between December 29, 2019 and October 3, 2020;
- Who had employment and/or self-employment income of at least $5,000 in 2019 or in the 12 months prior to the date of their application; and,
- Who have not quit their job voluntarily.
- When submitting your first claim, you cannot have earned more than $1,000 in employment and/or self-employment income for 14 or more consecutive days within the four-week benefit period of your claim.
When submitting subsequent claims, you cannot have earned more than $1,000 in employment and/or self-employment income for the entire four-week benefit period of your new claim.
Note: Federally regulated workers taking the new leave related to COVID-19 may be eligible for this benefit.
Return or repay CERB
You may want to return or repay the CERB if you:
- return to work earlier than expected
- applied for CERB but later realize you’re not eligible
You have the option to return or repay your CERB payment now.
If you still have the original CERB cheque
You can return the cheque by mail to the address below.
Mail your payment to
Revenue Processing – Repayment of CERB
Sudbury Tax Centre
1050 Notre Dame Avenue
Sudbury ON P3A 0C1
If you don't have the cheque or were paid by direct deposit
You can mail your repayment to the CRA.
Be sure to:
- make payment out to "Receiver General for Canada"
- indicate it is for "Repayment of CERB"
- include your Social Insurance Number (SIN) or your Temporary Tax Number (TTN)
Mail your payment to
Revenue Processing – Repayment of CERB
Sudbury Tax Centre
1050 Notre Dame Avenue
Sudbury ON P3A 0C1
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND FAQ'S ON CERB:
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/cerb-application/questions.html
Special one-time tax-free payment for certified holders of the Disability Tax Credit
The Government of Canada is providing a special one-time-tax payment to individuals who are certificate holders of the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) as of June 1, 2020, as follows:
The Government has not announced when the payment will be sent/deposited.
Note
If you receive Canada Pension Plan or Quebec Pension Plan disability benefits, workers' compensation benefits, or other types of disability or insurance benefits, it does not necessarily mean you are eligible for the DTC.
These programs have other purposes and different criteria, such as an individual's inability to work.
The Government of Canada is providing a special one-time-tax payment to individuals who are certificate holders of the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) as of June 1, 2020, as follows:
- $600 for Canadians with a valid DTC certificate.
- $300 for Canadians with a valid DTC certificate and who are eligible for the Old Age Security (OAS) pension.
- $100 for Canadians with a valid DTC certificate and who are eligible for the OAS pension and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS).
- People who are eligible for this special payment will receive it automatically.
The Government has not announced when the payment will be sent/deposited.
Note
If you receive Canada Pension Plan or Quebec Pension Plan disability benefits, workers' compensation benefits, or other types of disability or insurance benefits, it does not necessarily mean you are eligible for the DTC.
These programs have other purposes and different criteria, such as an individual's inability to work.
Youth, post-secondary students and recent graduates
Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB)
The Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB) provides emergency financial relief to students and recent graduates who are unable to work, or unable to find work, due to reasons related to COVID-19. It is also available for those who are working but not making more than $1,000 (before taxes) over the four-week period for which they are applying.
This benefit provides $1,250 per month for eligible students or $2,000 per month for eligible students with dependents or disabilities.
This benefit will be available from May to August 2020.
APPLY HERE: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/benefits/emergency-student-benefit.html
CHECK JOB BANK FOR JOBS HERE: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/findajob/resources/cesb
Canada Student Service Grant (CSSG)
The Canada Student Service Grant (CSSG) supports post-secondary students and recent graduates as they volunteer to serve in their communities’ COVID-19 response and gain valuable experience.
The CSSG will provide these volunteers with a one-time payment of between $1,000 and $5,000 based on the number of hours they serve.
To learn more and find not-for-profit organizations looking for help during the pandemic, post-secondary students and recent graduates can use the new
I Want to Help platform.
CLICK HERE: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/volunteer
Changes to the Canada Student Loans Program
We are proposing changes to the Canada Student Loans Program (CSLP) to allow more students to qualify for support and be eligible for greater amounts.
The changes would include:
More info here: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/education/student-aid.html
Supporting international students working in an essential service
We will remove the restriction that allows international students to work only a maximum of 20 hours per week while classes are in session, provided they are working in an essential service or function, such as health care, critical infrastructure, or the supply of food or other critical goods.
This temporary rule change will be in place until August 31, 2020.
Guidance on Essential Services: https://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/cnt/ntnl-scrt/crtcl-nfrstrctr/esf-sfe-en.aspx
Suspending repayment and interest on student and apprentice loans
All student loan borrowers will automatically have their loan repayments and interest suspended until September 30, 2020.
Students do not need to apply for the repayment pause.
This moratorium applies to the federal portion of student loans. Borrowers should check with their provincial or territorial student loan provider to see if payment is required on the provincial or territorial portion.
More info here: https://www.csnpe-nslsc.canada.ca/en/what-is-new
Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB)
The Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB) provides emergency financial relief to students and recent graduates who are unable to work, or unable to find work, due to reasons related to COVID-19. It is also available for those who are working but not making more than $1,000 (before taxes) over the four-week period for which they are applying.
This benefit provides $1,250 per month for eligible students or $2,000 per month for eligible students with dependents or disabilities.
This benefit will be available from May to August 2020.
APPLY HERE: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/benefits/emergency-student-benefit.html
CHECK JOB BANK FOR JOBS HERE: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/findajob/resources/cesb
Canada Student Service Grant (CSSG)
The Canada Student Service Grant (CSSG) supports post-secondary students and recent graduates as they volunteer to serve in their communities’ COVID-19 response and gain valuable experience.
The CSSG will provide these volunteers with a one-time payment of between $1,000 and $5,000 based on the number of hours they serve.
To learn more and find not-for-profit organizations looking for help during the pandemic, post-secondary students and recent graduates can use the new
I Want to Help platform.
CLICK HERE: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/volunteer
Changes to the Canada Student Loans Program
We are proposing changes to the Canada Student Loans Program (CSLP) to allow more students to qualify for support and be eligible for greater amounts.
The changes would include:
- Doubling the Canada Student Grants for all eligible full-time students to up to $6,000 and up to $3,600 for part-time students in 2020-21. The Canada Student Grants for Students with Permanent Disabilities and Students with Dependents would also be doubled.
- broadening eligibility for student financial assistance by removing the expected student’s and spouse’s contributions in 2020-21.
- raising the maximum weekly amount that can be provided to a student in 2020-21 from $210 to $350.
More info here: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/education/student-aid.html
Supporting international students working in an essential service
We will remove the restriction that allows international students to work only a maximum of 20 hours per week while classes are in session, provided they are working in an essential service or function, such as health care, critical infrastructure, or the supply of food or other critical goods.
This temporary rule change will be in place until August 31, 2020.
Guidance on Essential Services: https://www.publicsafety.gc.ca/cnt/ntnl-scrt/crtcl-nfrstrctr/esf-sfe-en.aspx
Suspending repayment and interest on student and apprentice loans
All student loan borrowers will automatically have their loan repayments and interest suspended until September 30, 2020.
Students do not need to apply for the repayment pause.
This moratorium applies to the federal portion of student loans. Borrowers should check with their provincial or territorial student loan provider to see if payment is required on the provincial or territorial portion.
More info here: https://www.csnpe-nslsc.canada.ca/en/what-is-new
What if I can't pay my mortgage during this crisis?
The Minister of Finance is in regular contact with the heads of Canada’s large banks, and continues to encourage them to show flexibility in helping their customers whose personal or business finances are affected by COVID-19. The Superintendent of Financial Institutions has also made clear his expectation that banks will use the additional lending capacity provided by recent government actions to support Canadian businesses and households.
In response, banks in Canada have affirmed their commitment to working with customers to provide flexible solutions, on a case-by-case basis, for managing through hardships caused by recent developments. This may include situations such as pay disruption, childcare disruption, or illness. Canada’s large banks have confirmed that this support will include up to a 6-month payment deferral for mortgages, and the opportunity for relief on other credit products. These targeted measures respond to immediate challenges being faced across the country and will help stabilize the Canadian economy.
Mortgage Default Management Tools
The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and other mortgage insurers offer tools to lenders that can assist homeowners who may be experiencing financial difficulty. These include payment deferral, loan re-amortization, capitalization of outstanding interest arrears and other eligible expenses, and special payment arrangements.
The Government, through CMHC, is providing increased flexibility for homeowners facing financial difficulties to defer mortgage payments on homeowner CMHC-insured mortgage loans. CMHC will permit lenders to allow payment deferral beginning immediately.
The Minister of Finance is in regular contact with the heads of Canada’s large banks, and continues to encourage them to show flexibility in helping their customers whose personal or business finances are affected by COVID-19. The Superintendent of Financial Institutions has also made clear his expectation that banks will use the additional lending capacity provided by recent government actions to support Canadian businesses and households.
In response, banks in Canada have affirmed their commitment to working with customers to provide flexible solutions, on a case-by-case basis, for managing through hardships caused by recent developments. This may include situations such as pay disruption, childcare disruption, or illness. Canada’s large banks have confirmed that this support will include up to a 6-month payment deferral for mortgages, and the opportunity for relief on other credit products. These targeted measures respond to immediate challenges being faced across the country and will help stabilize the Canadian economy.
Mortgage Default Management Tools
The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and other mortgage insurers offer tools to lenders that can assist homeowners who may be experiencing financial difficulty. These include payment deferral, loan re-amortization, capitalization of outstanding interest arrears and other eligible expenses, and special payment arrangements.
The Government, through CMHC, is providing increased flexibility for homeowners facing financial difficulties to defer mortgage payments on homeowner CMHC-insured mortgage loans. CMHC will permit lenders to allow payment deferral beginning immediately.
To access information on supports available from the Province of BC, please click here:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support
SUPPORT FOR BUSINESSES
The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS)
The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) supports employers that are hardest hit by the pandemic, and protect the jobs Canadians depend on.
The subsidy generally covers 75% of an employee's wages – up to $847 per week - for employers of all sizes and across all sectors who have suffered a drop in gross revenues of at least 15% in March, and 30% in April and May.
The program will be in until August 29.
Employers who are eligible for the CEWS are entitled to receive a 100% refund for certain employer contributions to Employment Insurance, the Canada Pension Plan, the Quebec Pension Plan, and the Quebec Parental Insurance Plan paid in respect of employees who are on leave with pay.
For employers that are eligible for both the CEWS and the 10% Temporary Wage Subsidy for a period, any benefit from the Temporary 10% Wage Subsidy for remuneration paid in a specific period will generally reduce the amount available to be claimed under the CEWS in that same period.
Apply here: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/subsidy/emergency-wage-subsidy.html
FAQ's about CEWS: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/subsidy/emergency-wage-subsidy/cews-frequently-asked-questions.html
Be ready to apply for the CEWS -- CLICK HERE:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/subsidy/emergency-wage-subsidy.html
If businesses have questions about the CEWS that aren’t specific to a person’s particular situation, like eligibility and how to apply, call CRA’s general information line at 1-833-966-2099 as wait times are shorter.
The Temporary 10% Wage Subsidy
The Temporary 10% Wage Subsidy is a three-month measure that will allow eligible employers to reduce the amount of payroll deduction required to be remitted to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
You are an eligible employer if you:
Note: Partnerships are only eligible for the subsidy if their members consist exclusively of individuals (excluding trusts), registered charities, or Canadian-controlled private corporations eligible for the small business deduction.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/covid-19-update/frequently-asked-questions-wage-subsidy-small-businesses.html
The Temporary 10% Wage Subsidy is a three-month measure that will allow eligible employers to reduce the amount of payroll deduction required to be remitted to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
You are an eligible employer if you:
- are a(n):
- individual (excluding trusts),
- partnership.
- non-profit organization,
- registered charity, or
- Canadian-controlled private corporation (including a cooperative corporation) eligible for the small business deduction;
- have an existing business number and payroll program account with the CRA on March 18, 2020; and
- pay salary, wages, bonuses, or other remuneration to an eligible employee.
Note: Partnerships are only eligible for the subsidy if their members consist exclusively of individuals (excluding trusts), registered charities, or Canadian-controlled private corporations eligible for the small business deduction.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION:
https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/covid-19-update/frequently-asked-questions-wage-subsidy-small-businesses.html
Extending Work-Sharing program
The Government of Canada is Implementing the EI Work Sharing Program, which provides EI benefits to workers who agree to reduce their normal working hour as a result of developments beyond the control of their employers, by extending the eligibility of such agreements to 76 weeks, easing eligibility requirements, and streamlining the application process.
Click here to apply: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/work-sharing/apply.html
Flexibility for Businesses Filing Taxes
The Canada Revenue Agency will allow all businesses to defer, until after August 31, 2020, the payment of any income tax amounts that become owing on or after today and before September 2020. This relief would apply to tax balances due, as well as instalments, under Part I of the Income Tax Act. No interest or penalties will accumulate on these amounts during this period.
The Canada Revenue Agency will not contact any small or medium (SME) businesses to initiate any post assessment GST/HST or Income Tax audits for the next four weeks. For the vast majority of businesses, the Canada Revenue Agency will temporarily suspend audit interaction with taxpayers and representatives.
The Liaison Officer service offers help to owners of small businesses to understand their tax obligations. Traditionally available in-person, this service is now available over the phone and will be customizing information during these challenging times by ensuring small businesses are aware of any changes such as filing and payment deadlines, proactive relief measures, etc.
Access to credit
Establishing a Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP)
We established a Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) to provide more than $10 billion of additional support, largely targeted to small and medium-sized businesses, through the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC).
BDC and EDC are cooperating with private sector lenders to coordinate on credit solutions for individual businesses, including in sectors such as oil and gas, air transportation and tourism.
As a first step, businesses in need of credit support should contact their financial institution.
Learn more about the Business Credit Availability Program
Offering a guarantee on loans
Export Development Canada is supporting businesses by offering their bank a guarantee on loans of up to $5 million to ensure that companies can access more cash immediately.
For more details, contact your financial institution.
Learn more
The New Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA)
This $55 billion program, implemented by eligible financial institutions in cooperation with Export Development Canada (EDC), provides interest-free loans of up to $40,000 to small businesses and not-for-profits.
Repaying the balance of the loan on or before December 31, 2022 will result in loan forgiveness of 25 percent (up to $10,000).
The expanded Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) is now open for applications.
This means that more small businesses can access it.
As of June 26, 2020, businesses eligible for CEBA now include owner-operated small businesses that do not have a payroll, sole proprietors receiving business income directly, as well as family-owned corporations remunerating in the form of dividends rather than payroll. Applicants will have to demonstrate having eligible non-deferrable expenses between Cdn.$40,000 and Cdn.$1,500,000 in 2020.
The expanded CEBA is being made available gradually by more than 230 financial institutions across the country, starting with the larger banks. Other participating financial institutions will start offering the program over the coming weeks.
Business owners can apply for support from the Canada Emergency Business Account through their banks and credit unions
Click here for more information: https://ceba-cuec.ca/
A New Loan Guarantee for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Export Development Canada is working with financial institutions so that they can issue new operating credit and cash flow term loans of up to $6.25 million to SMEs.
Businesses should contact their financial institution to determine whether this program is a good fit for their needs.
A New Co-Lending Program for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
The Co-Lending Program will bring the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) together with financial institutions to co-lend term loans to SMEs for their operational cash flow requirements.
Through the Co-Lending Program, eligible businesses may obtain incremental credit amounts of up to $6.25 million through the program.
Businesses should contact their financial institution to determine whether this program is a good fit for their needs.
Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)
The Government of Canada is providing nearly $962 million through the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) to help more businesses and organizations in sectors such as manufacturing, technology, tourism and others that are key to the regions and to local economies.
This fund is specifically targeted to those that may require additional help to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, but have been unable to access existing support measures.
Apply here: https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/icgc.nsf/eng/h_07662.html
Assisting innovative and early-stage businesses
The Government of Canada investing $250 million to assist innovative, early-stage companies that are unable to access other COVID-19 business supports through the Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP).
IRAP provides advice, connections, and funding to help Canadian small and medium-sized businesses increase their innovation capacity and take ideas to market.
Learn to apply: https://nrc.canada.ca/en/corporate/nrc-covid-19-response
Deferral of Sales Tax Remittance and Customs Duty Payments
The Government of Canada will allow businesses, including self-employed individuals, to defer until June 30, 2020 payments of the Goods and Services Tax / Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST), as well as customs duties owing on their imports.
The deferral will apply to GST/HST remittances for the February, March and April 2020 reporting periods for monthly filers; the January 1, 2020 through March 31, 2020 reporting period for quarterly filers; and for annual filers, the amounts collected and owing for their previous fiscal year and instalments of GST/HST in respect of the filer’s current fiscal year.
For GST and customs duty payments for imported goods, deferral will include amounts owing for March, April and May.
These amounts were normally due to be submitted to the Canada Revenue Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency as early as the end of this month.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan/covid19-businesses.html#wage_subsidies
The Government of Canada is Implementing the EI Work Sharing Program, which provides EI benefits to workers who agree to reduce their normal working hour as a result of developments beyond the control of their employers, by extending the eligibility of such agreements to 76 weeks, easing eligibility requirements, and streamlining the application process.
Click here to apply: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/work-sharing/apply.html
Flexibility for Businesses Filing Taxes
The Canada Revenue Agency will allow all businesses to defer, until after August 31, 2020, the payment of any income tax amounts that become owing on or after today and before September 2020. This relief would apply to tax balances due, as well as instalments, under Part I of the Income Tax Act. No interest or penalties will accumulate on these amounts during this period.
The Canada Revenue Agency will not contact any small or medium (SME) businesses to initiate any post assessment GST/HST or Income Tax audits for the next four weeks. For the vast majority of businesses, the Canada Revenue Agency will temporarily suspend audit interaction with taxpayers and representatives.
The Liaison Officer service offers help to owners of small businesses to understand their tax obligations. Traditionally available in-person, this service is now available over the phone and will be customizing information during these challenging times by ensuring small businesses are aware of any changes such as filing and payment deadlines, proactive relief measures, etc.
Access to credit
Establishing a Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP)
We established a Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) to provide more than $10 billion of additional support, largely targeted to small and medium-sized businesses, through the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC).
BDC and EDC are cooperating with private sector lenders to coordinate on credit solutions for individual businesses, including in sectors such as oil and gas, air transportation and tourism.
As a first step, businesses in need of credit support should contact their financial institution.
Learn more about the Business Credit Availability Program
Offering a guarantee on loans
Export Development Canada is supporting businesses by offering their bank a guarantee on loans of up to $5 million to ensure that companies can access more cash immediately.
For more details, contact your financial institution.
Learn more
The New Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA)
This $55 billion program, implemented by eligible financial institutions in cooperation with Export Development Canada (EDC), provides interest-free loans of up to $40,000 to small businesses and not-for-profits.
Repaying the balance of the loan on or before December 31, 2022 will result in loan forgiveness of 25 percent (up to $10,000).
The expanded Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) is now open for applications.
This means that more small businesses can access it.
As of June 26, 2020, businesses eligible for CEBA now include owner-operated small businesses that do not have a payroll, sole proprietors receiving business income directly, as well as family-owned corporations remunerating in the form of dividends rather than payroll. Applicants will have to demonstrate having eligible non-deferrable expenses between Cdn.$40,000 and Cdn.$1,500,000 in 2020.
The expanded CEBA is being made available gradually by more than 230 financial institutions across the country, starting with the larger banks. Other participating financial institutions will start offering the program over the coming weeks.
Business owners can apply for support from the Canada Emergency Business Account through their banks and credit unions
Click here for more information: https://ceba-cuec.ca/
A New Loan Guarantee for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Export Development Canada is working with financial institutions so that they can issue new operating credit and cash flow term loans of up to $6.25 million to SMEs.
Businesses should contact their financial institution to determine whether this program is a good fit for their needs.
A New Co-Lending Program for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
The Co-Lending Program will bring the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) together with financial institutions to co-lend term loans to SMEs for their operational cash flow requirements.
Through the Co-Lending Program, eligible businesses may obtain incremental credit amounts of up to $6.25 million through the program.
Businesses should contact their financial institution to determine whether this program is a good fit for their needs.
Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)
The Government of Canada is providing nearly $962 million through the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) to help more businesses and organizations in sectors such as manufacturing, technology, tourism and others that are key to the regions and to local economies.
This fund is specifically targeted to those that may require additional help to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, but have been unable to access existing support measures.
Apply here: https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/icgc.nsf/eng/h_07662.html
Assisting innovative and early-stage businesses
The Government of Canada investing $250 million to assist innovative, early-stage companies that are unable to access other COVID-19 business supports through the Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP).
IRAP provides advice, connections, and funding to help Canadian small and medium-sized businesses increase their innovation capacity and take ideas to market.
Learn to apply: https://nrc.canada.ca/en/corporate/nrc-covid-19-response
Deferral of Sales Tax Remittance and Customs Duty Payments
The Government of Canada will allow businesses, including self-employed individuals, to defer until June 30, 2020 payments of the Goods and Services Tax / Harmonized Sales Tax (GST/HST), as well as customs duties owing on their imports.
The deferral will apply to GST/HST remittances for the February, March and April 2020 reporting periods for monthly filers; the January 1, 2020 through March 31, 2020 reporting period for quarterly filers; and for annual filers, the amounts collected and owing for their previous fiscal year and instalments of GST/HST in respect of the filer’s current fiscal year.
For GST and customs duty payments for imported goods, deferral will include amounts owing for March, April and May.
These amounts were normally due to be submitted to the Canada Revenue Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency as early as the end of this month.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan/covid19-businesses.html#wage_subsidies
Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA)
The Government of Canada has reached an agreement in principle with all provinces and territories to implement the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) for small businesses.
This program will lower rent by 75 per cent for small businesses that have been affected by COVID-19.
The program will provide forgivable loans to qualifying commercial property owners to cover 50% of three monthly rent payments that are payable by eligible small business tenants who are experiencing financial hardship during April, May, and June.
The loans will be forgiven if the mortgaged property owner agrees to reduce the small business tenants’ rent by at least 75% under a rent forgiveness agreement, which will include a term not to evict the tenant while the agreement is in place.
The small business tenant would cover the remainder, up to 25% of the rent.
Impacted small business tenants are businesses paying less than $50,000 per month in rent and who have temporarily ceased operations or have experienced at least a 70% drop in pre-COVID revenues.
This support will also be available to non-profit and charitable organizations.
It is expected that CECRA will be operational by mid-May, and further details will be announced soon.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/finance-and-investing/covid19-cecra-small-business
Support for farmers
The Government of Canada has increased credit available to farmers and the agri-food sector through Farm Credit Canada.
The Government of Canada has increased credit available to farmers and the agri-food sector through Farm Credit Canada.
To access information on supports available from the Province of BC, please click here:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support
TRAVEL QUESTIONS
Canada-U.S. border restrictions
As of June 16, 2020, the restriction on all discretionary travel at the Canada-U.S. border that was initially implemented on March 21, 2020, was extended for an additional 30 days until July 21, 2020. This applies to all foreign nationals with some exceptions for immediate family members (see section below). Potential travellers should consult the Border Information Service for information. LINK TO BORDER SERVICES: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/contact/bis-sif-eng.html
The Canada Border Services Agency is announced that as of June 8, 2020 23:59 EDT, foreign nationals who are immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, and who do not have COVID-19 or exhibit any signs or symptoms of COVID-19, or who do not have reason to believe they have COVID-19, will be exempt from the prohibition on entry to Canada if entering to be with an immediate family member for a period of at least 15 days.
Foreign nationals who are admitted into Canada pursuant to this exemption must quarantine for 14 days.
An immediate family member refers to a person’s:
a) spouse or common-law partner;
b) dependent child, as defined in section 2 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, or a dependent child of the person’s spouse or common-law partner;
c) dependent child, as defined in section 2 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, of a dependent child referred to in paragraph (b):
d) parent or step-parent or the parent or step-parent of the person’s spouse or common-law partner;
e) guardian or tutor.
All foreign nationals who have COVID-19 or exhibit any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 continue to remain prohibited from entering Canada.
This change does not apply to immediate family members of temporary residents in Canada, such as those on a student or work visa.
Quick Facts
All persons entering Canada – no matter their country of origin or mode of entry – must isolate themselves for 14 days if they have symptoms of or confirmed COVID-19 or quarantine themselves for 14 days if they do not have symptoms of COVID-19.
Asymptomatic foreign national immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who intend to stay in Canada for 14 days or less may still enter Canada as long as their entry is not for a purpose that is discretionary and, if seeking entry from the United States, are able to comply with the requirement to quarantine based on their purpose of travel and intended length of stay.
The temporary restriction on all discretionary/optional travel at the Canada-U.S. border put in place on March 21 at 12:01 a.m. EDT continues. This restriction is in place until at least June 21, 2020.
Canadian citizens, permanent residents and Registered Indians under the Indian Act can continue to enter Canada by right, and are subject to COVID-19 entry screening measures.
The immediate family member will need to confirm that they have a suitable place to quarantine for 14 days where they will have access to basic necessities (such as food and medication) and not have contact with vulnerable people, such as adults aged 65 years or over and people with pre-existing medical conditions, unless the vulnerable person is a consenting adult or is the parent or minor in a parent-minor relationship. Travellers will be expected to make plans for where they will quarantine in advance of arriving to Canada.
Travellers should consult the respective provincial/territorial websites to ensure that they are aware of the provincial/territorial entry, quarantine and public health requirements and can abide by those requirements.
As of March 31, 2020, anyone arriving in Canada in any mode (air, land or marine) must provide their contact information to a border services officer when seeking entry.
This information is collected on behalf of Public Health Agency of Canada to support their compliance and enforcement of the 14-day quarantine or isolation requirement outlined in Order in Council 2020-0260.
Travellers are encouraged to download the mobile ArriveCAN App prior to arrival to reduce wait times and limit contact at the border. The App is available on the Apple App and Google Play stores.
As of June 16, 2020, the restriction on all discretionary travel at the Canada-U.S. border that was initially implemented on March 21, 2020, was extended for an additional 30 days until July 21, 2020. This applies to all foreign nationals with some exceptions for immediate family members (see section below). Potential travellers should consult the Border Information Service for information. LINK TO BORDER SERVICES: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/contact/bis-sif-eng.html
The Canada Border Services Agency is announced that as of June 8, 2020 23:59 EDT, foreign nationals who are immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, and who do not have COVID-19 or exhibit any signs or symptoms of COVID-19, or who do not have reason to believe they have COVID-19, will be exempt from the prohibition on entry to Canada if entering to be with an immediate family member for a period of at least 15 days.
Foreign nationals who are admitted into Canada pursuant to this exemption must quarantine for 14 days.
An immediate family member refers to a person’s:
a) spouse or common-law partner;
b) dependent child, as defined in section 2 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, or a dependent child of the person’s spouse or common-law partner;
c) dependent child, as defined in section 2 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, of a dependent child referred to in paragraph (b):
d) parent or step-parent or the parent or step-parent of the person’s spouse or common-law partner;
e) guardian or tutor.
All foreign nationals who have COVID-19 or exhibit any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 continue to remain prohibited from entering Canada.
This change does not apply to immediate family members of temporary residents in Canada, such as those on a student or work visa.
Quick Facts
All persons entering Canada – no matter their country of origin or mode of entry – must isolate themselves for 14 days if they have symptoms of or confirmed COVID-19 or quarantine themselves for 14 days if they do not have symptoms of COVID-19.
Asymptomatic foreign national immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who intend to stay in Canada for 14 days or less may still enter Canada as long as their entry is not for a purpose that is discretionary and, if seeking entry from the United States, are able to comply with the requirement to quarantine based on their purpose of travel and intended length of stay.
The temporary restriction on all discretionary/optional travel at the Canada-U.S. border put in place on March 21 at 12:01 a.m. EDT continues. This restriction is in place until at least June 21, 2020.
Canadian citizens, permanent residents and Registered Indians under the Indian Act can continue to enter Canada by right, and are subject to COVID-19 entry screening measures.
The immediate family member will need to confirm that they have a suitable place to quarantine for 14 days where they will have access to basic necessities (such as food and medication) and not have contact with vulnerable people, such as adults aged 65 years or over and people with pre-existing medical conditions, unless the vulnerable person is a consenting adult or is the parent or minor in a parent-minor relationship. Travellers will be expected to make plans for where they will quarantine in advance of arriving to Canada.
Travellers should consult the respective provincial/territorial websites to ensure that they are aware of the provincial/territorial entry, quarantine and public health requirements and can abide by those requirements.
As of March 31, 2020, anyone arriving in Canada in any mode (air, land or marine) must provide their contact information to a border services officer when seeking entry.
This information is collected on behalf of Public Health Agency of Canada to support their compliance and enforcement of the 14-day quarantine or isolation requirement outlined in Order in Council 2020-0260.
Travellers are encouraged to download the mobile ArriveCAN App prior to arrival to reduce wait times and limit contact at the border. The App is available on the Apple App and Google Play stores.
Travellers returning to Canada
The Government of Canada has put in place an emergency order under the Quarantine Act. It applies to all travellers arriving in Canada. Its purpose is to slow the spread of COVID-19 in Canada. Failure to comply with this order is an offence under the Quarantine Act.
Travellers with symptoms: mandatory isolation
If you are Canadian or a permanent resident, and you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19, you may still enter Canada by land, rail or sea. You may not enter Canada by air, to protect the health of all travellers.
If you have symptoms, you must isolate. This is mandatory. If required, immediate medical attention will be provided upon arrival in Canada.
Mandatory isolation means you must:
Travellers without symptoms: mandatory quarantine
If you have recently returned to Canada and you have no symptoms, you must quarantine (self-isolate). This is mandatory. You are at risk of developing symptoms and infecting others.
Mandatory quarantine (self-isolate) means you must:
Check if you have been exposed
Have you been on a recent flight, cruise, train, or at a public gathering? Check the listed exposure locations to see if you may have been exposed to COVID-19.
Compliance and enforcement of the Quarantine Act
The Government of Canada is working with federal and provincial partners to promote and verify compliance of the emergency order with active communication and spot checks.
If you are permitted to enter Canada, you will be:
Violating any instructions provided to you when you entered Canada is an offence under the Quarantine Act and could lead to up to:
Further, a person who causes a risk of imminent death or serious bodily harm to another person while wilfully or recklessly contravening this act or the regulations could be liable for:
Exemptions to travel restrictions
The continued global movement of goods and people and the ongoing delivery of essential services will be important for Canada's response to COVID-19.
Several categories of people are exempted from this order because they provide critical services, if they have no symptoms.
These include people who:
Workers in these sectors should:
Employers in these sectors should:
Travellers within Canada
Non-medical masks or face coverings while travelling
Effective April 20, 2020 and until further notice, new measures require all air passengers to have a non-medical mask or face covering to cover their mouth and nose during travel.
When travelling by air, travellers will be asked to cover their mouth and nose in the following situations:
Aviation passengers on all flights departing or arriving at Canadian airports will also be required to demonstrate they have the necessary non-medical mask or face covering during the boarding process otherwise they will not be allowed to continue on their journey.
When travelling by marine modes of transportation, travellers are encouraged to wear non-medical masks or face coverings whenever possible. In addition, operators of ferries and essential passenger vessels will, when feasible:
Passengers travelling by land (rail or motor carrier/bus modes) of transportation are also strongly encouraged to wear non-medical masks or face coverings as much as possible. Passengers may be asked by the transportation operator to cover their noses and mouths when physical distancing is not possible.
As of March 30, 2020, all passengers flying in Canada will be subject to a health check prior to boarding.
You will not be permitted to board if you:
This also applies to travellers arriving from outside Canada.
If you are arriving from outside Canada and are deemed safe to fly, you may board a connecting flight to your destination. However, upon arrival at your final destination, you must go directly to the place where you will isolate, and remain there for 14 days. This is because you are still at risk of developing symptoms and infecting others.
You may be subject to additional provincial or territorial public health measures at your final destination.
If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you will not be allowed to board any flight until:
Travellers departing CanadaAvoid all non-essential travel
To limit the spread of COVID-19, the Government of Canada advises that you avoid all non-essential travel outside of Canada until further notice.
Many countries have put in place travel or border restrictions, such as movement restrictions and quarantines.
Many airlines are suspending flights.
Many airports are closing, preventing flights from leaving.
Exit bans are becoming more frequent.
New restrictions may be imposed with little warning.
Your travel plans may be severely disrupted and you may be forced to remain outside of Canada longer than expected.
Canadian travellers should return to Canada as soon as possible.
Making the choice to stay at home and not travel outside of Canada is the best way to protect yourself, your family and the most vulnerable groups in our communities from COVID-19.
Contact your airline or tour operator to determine options for cancelling or postponing your trip.
If you are still considering travel outside of Canada, you should do the following:
It is important to remember that if you travel abroad, you could be subject to the measures of other countries.
Your 1-week trip may become much longer.
You may also have reduced access to quality health care.
If you must travel during the pandemic
Take precautions against respiratory illnesses, and seek medical attention if you become sick.
During your trip:
Monitor your health
If you become sick, avoid contact with others except to see a health care professional.
If you feel sick during your flight to Canada or upon arrival, inform the flight attendant or a Canadian border services officer.
If you do not have symptoms but believe you were exposed to someone who was sick with COVID-19, report this information to a Canada border services agent on arrival in Canada. This is required under the Quarantine Act. The Canada border services agent will provide instructions for you to follow.
You will see messaging on arrivals screens at international airports to help guide you if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms.
Arriving travellers will also be provided with information on what symptoms to identify and how to contact local health authorities.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/latest-travel-health-advice.html?topic=tilelink#f
The Government of Canada has put in place an emergency order under the Quarantine Act. It applies to all travellers arriving in Canada. Its purpose is to slow the spread of COVID-19 in Canada. Failure to comply with this order is an offence under the Quarantine Act.
Travellers with symptoms: mandatory isolation
If you are Canadian or a permanent resident, and you have symptoms consistent with COVID-19, you may still enter Canada by land, rail or sea. You may not enter Canada by air, to protect the health of all travellers.
If you have symptoms, you must isolate. This is mandatory. If required, immediate medical attention will be provided upon arrival in Canada.
Mandatory isolation means you must:
- go directly to the place where you will isolate, without delay, and stay there for 14 days
- use private transportation only, such as your personal vehicle, to get to your place of isolation
- do not use public transportation such as buses and taxis
- stay inside and do not leave your place of isolation unless it is to seek medical attention
- do not go to school, work or any other public areas
- stay in a separate room and use a separate bathroom from others in your home, if possible
- do not allow visitors to your home
- limit contact with others in the place of isolation, including children
- do not isolate in a place where you will have contact with vulnerable people, such as older adults and individuals with underlying medical conditions
- immediately contact your health care provider or public health authority if your symptoms get worse, and follow their instructions
Travellers without symptoms: mandatory quarantine
If you have recently returned to Canada and you have no symptoms, you must quarantine (self-isolate). This is mandatory. You are at risk of developing symptoms and infecting others.
Mandatory quarantine (self-isolate) means you must:
- go directly to your place of quarantine, without delay, and stay there for 14 days
- you can take public transportation to get to your place of self-isolation after you arrive in Canada, but you must not stop on the way home, and practise physical (social) distancing at all times
- do not go to school, work or other public areas and community settings
- monitor your health for symptoms of COVID-19
- arrange to have someone pick up essentials like groceries or medication for you
- do not have visitors to your home
- stay in a private place like your yard or balcony if you go outside for fresh air
- keep a distance of at least 2 arms lengths (approximately 2 metres) from others
- isolate yourself from others
- immediately call a health care professional or public health authority and:
- describe your symptoms and travel history
- follow their instructions carefully
Check if you have been exposed
Have you been on a recent flight, cruise, train, or at a public gathering? Check the listed exposure locations to see if you may have been exposed to COVID-19.
Compliance and enforcement of the Quarantine Act
The Government of Canada is working with federal and provincial partners to promote and verify compliance of the emergency order with active communication and spot checks.
If you are permitted to enter Canada, you will be:
- asked if you have a cough, fever or difficulty breathing
- required to acknowledge that you must self-isolate
- given instructions about your obligations under the emergency order
Violating any instructions provided to you when you entered Canada is an offence under the Quarantine Act and could lead to up to:
- 6 months in prison and/or
- $750,000 in fines
Further, a person who causes a risk of imminent death or serious bodily harm to another person while wilfully or recklessly contravening this act or the regulations could be liable for:
- a fine of up to $1,000,000 or
- imprisonment of up to 3 years or
- both
Exemptions to travel restrictions
The continued global movement of goods and people and the ongoing delivery of essential services will be important for Canada's response to COVID-19.
Several categories of people are exempted from this order because they provide critical services, if they have no symptoms.
These include people who:
- are making necessary medical deliveries required for patient care, such as:
- cells
- organs
- tissues
- blood and blood products
- other similar lifesaving human body parts
- work in the trade and transportation sector who are important for the movement of goods and people, including:
- truck drivers
- crew on any plane, train or marine vessel
- cross the border regularly to go to work, including in the health care sector or critical infrastructure workers
- have to cross the border to provide or receive essential services, including emergency responders and personnel providing essential services to Canadians related to the COVID-19 outbreak
Workers in these sectors should:
- practise physical (social) distancing (maintain a distance of 2 metres from others)
- closely self-monitor
Employers in these sectors should:
- conduct active daily monitoring of their staff for COVID-19 symptoms (checking for cough, fever or shortness of breath)
- use the risk-informed decision-making guidelines for workplaces/businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic
Travellers within Canada
Non-medical masks or face coverings while travelling
Effective April 20, 2020 and until further notice, new measures require all air passengers to have a non-medical mask or face covering to cover their mouth and nose during travel.
When travelling by air, travellers will be asked to cover their mouth and nose in the following situations:
- at Canadian airport screening checkpoints, where the screeners cannot always keep two metres of separation between themselves and the traveller
- when they cannot physically distance from others, or as directed by the airline employees
- when directed to do so by a public health order or public health official
Aviation passengers on all flights departing or arriving at Canadian airports will also be required to demonstrate they have the necessary non-medical mask or face covering during the boarding process otherwise they will not be allowed to continue on their journey.
When travelling by marine modes of transportation, travellers are encouraged to wear non-medical masks or face coverings whenever possible. In addition, operators of ferries and essential passenger vessels will, when feasible:
- provide public messaging to travellers about the need to have a non-medical mask or face covering to cover their mouth and nose during their journey when they cannot maintain physical distance from others, and that passengers could be subject to denial of boarding should they fail to comply.
Passengers travelling by land (rail or motor carrier/bus modes) of transportation are also strongly encouraged to wear non-medical masks or face coverings as much as possible. Passengers may be asked by the transportation operator to cover their noses and mouths when physical distancing is not possible.
As of March 30, 2020, all passengers flying in Canada will be subject to a health check prior to boarding.
You will not be permitted to board if you:
- show any symptoms of COVID-19 or
- have been refused boarding in the past 14 days due to a medical reason related to COVID-19 or
- are subject to a provincial or local public health order
This also applies to travellers arriving from outside Canada.
If you are arriving from outside Canada and are deemed safe to fly, you may board a connecting flight to your destination. However, upon arrival at your final destination, you must go directly to the place where you will isolate, and remain there for 14 days. This is because you are still at risk of developing symptoms and infecting others.
You may be subject to additional provincial or territorial public health measures at your final destination.
If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you will not be allowed to board any flight until:
- 14 days have passed or
- you present a medical certificate confirming that your symptoms are not related to COVID-19
Travellers departing CanadaAvoid all non-essential travel
To limit the spread of COVID-19, the Government of Canada advises that you avoid all non-essential travel outside of Canada until further notice.
Many countries have put in place travel or border restrictions, such as movement restrictions and quarantines.
Many airlines are suspending flights.
Many airports are closing, preventing flights from leaving.
Exit bans are becoming more frequent.
New restrictions may be imposed with little warning.
Your travel plans may be severely disrupted and you may be forced to remain outside of Canada longer than expected.
Canadian travellers should return to Canada as soon as possible.
Making the choice to stay at home and not travel outside of Canada is the best way to protect yourself, your family and the most vulnerable groups in our communities from COVID-19.
Contact your airline or tour operator to determine options for cancelling or postponing your trip.
If you are still considering travel outside of Canada, you should do the following:
- check the pandemic COVID-19 travel health notice before travelling and know the health risks for your destination
- understand the risks of your safety and security abroad
- ensure that you have sufficient finances and necessities, including medication, in case your travels are disrupted
It is important to remember that if you travel abroad, you could be subject to the measures of other countries.
Your 1-week trip may become much longer.
You may also have reduced access to quality health care.
If you must travel during the pandemic
Take precautions against respiratory illnesses, and seek medical attention if you become sick.
During your trip:
- avoid large crowds or crowded areas
- avoid contact with sick people, especially if they have a cough, fever or difficulty breathing
- be aware of the local situation and follow local public health advice
- wash your hands often with soap under warm running water for at least 20 seconds
- use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available and always keep some with you when you travel
- practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette
Monitor your health
If you become sick, avoid contact with others except to see a health care professional.
If you feel sick during your flight to Canada or upon arrival, inform the flight attendant or a Canadian border services officer.
If you do not have symptoms but believe you were exposed to someone who was sick with COVID-19, report this information to a Canada border services agent on arrival in Canada. This is required under the Quarantine Act. The Canada border services agent will provide instructions for you to follow.
You will see messaging on arrivals screens at international airports to help guide you if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms.
Arriving travellers will also be provided with information on what symptoms to identify and how to contact local health authorities.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/latest-travel-health-advice.html?topic=tilelink#f
Help for Canadians outside Canada
In case of emergency, call the closest Government of Canada government office serving your location.
If the office is closed, your call will be transferred to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The centre operates 24/7 and may be reached directly at +1 613 996 8885 (call collect where available) or sos@international.gc.ca.
Canadians outside the country who are directly impacted by COVID-19 are eligible to apply for the Emergency Loan Program for Canadians Abroad to facilitate their return to Canada and cover basic, essential needs while they work toward their return.
Each application will be assessed according to the individual’s specific situation and needs.
Although the Government of Canada are doing all they can to support Canadians overseas, they recognize that many individuals may need to remain out of Canada for an indeterminate period.
If you must travel or are already outside Canada:
For More Information: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/covid-19-security?_ga=2.163873207.906763293.1585171685-365691667.1584457654
In case of emergency, call the closest Government of Canada government office serving your location.
If the office is closed, your call will be transferred to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The centre operates 24/7 and may be reached directly at +1 613 996 8885 (call collect where available) or sos@international.gc.ca.
Canadians outside the country who are directly impacted by COVID-19 are eligible to apply for the Emergency Loan Program for Canadians Abroad to facilitate their return to Canada and cover basic, essential needs while they work toward their return.
Each application will be assessed according to the individual’s specific situation and needs.
Although the Government of Canada are doing all they can to support Canadians overseas, they recognize that many individuals may need to remain out of Canada for an indeterminate period.
If you must travel or are already outside Canada:
- Find out what commercial options, if any, remain available and return to Canada as soon as possible.
- Register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service. Make sure your contact information is complete and up to date. This will allow consular officials to contact you, provide updates and confirm your situation.
- Regularly check your destination’s Travel Advice and Advisories.
- Monitor local media to stay informed of the situation.
- Follow the advice of local authorities, including public health advice and lockdown or shelter-in-place guidance.
- Take precautions against COVID-19. If you start to feel symptoms, self-isolate and monitor yourself closely. Avoid contact with anyone except health care professionals.
- Keep important documents in a safe, but easy to access, place.
- Make sure you have enough money, medication, food and water in case you need to extend your stay or are unable to leave your home or accommodations due to movement restrictions.
- Make sure you have a local SIM card and charger for your mobile phone.
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least another six months. If you need to renew it, call the closest Canadian office serving your location. If the office is closed, your call will be transferred to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa. The centre operates 24/7 and may be reached directly at +1 613 996 8885 (call collect where available) or sos@international.gc.ca.
- Check the Government of Canada’s Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Travel advice and follow the recommended health precautions.
- Check the World Health Organization’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) advice for the public.
- Check with your travel insurance provider to know more about your policy as it relates to COVID-19. Find out if you are covered for medical treatment if you become infected with COVID-19 and for extended stays outside Canada. Find out more about travel insurance.
- Contact your family and friends as soon as you can, even if you have not been affected, and continue to update them on your situation until you return to Canada.
For More Information: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/covid-19-security?_ga=2.163873207.906763293.1585171685-365691667.1584457654
GENERAL COVD-19 QUESTIONS
How do I prevent and prepare for COVID-19?
The most important thing you can do to prevent infection is to wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face.
To help reduce your risk of infection:
More information:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/about-covid-19/prevention
The most important thing you can do to prevent infection is to wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face.
To help reduce your risk of infection:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Using soap and water is the single most effective way of reducing the spread of infection.
- If a sink is not available, alcohol based hand rubs (ABHR) can be used to clean your hands as long as they are not visibly soiled. If they are visibly soiled, use a wipe and then ABHR to effectively clean them.
- Do not touch your face, eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue or the crease of your elbow when you sneeze or cough.
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Do not share food, drinks, utensils, etc.
More information:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/about-covid-19/prevention
What should I do if I think I have symptoms or think I may have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19?
BC COVID-19 SELF ASSESSMENT TOOL: https://bc.thrive.health/
This self-assessment tool, developed with the BC Ministry of Health, will help determine whether you may need further assessment or testing for COVID-19.
You can complete this assessment for yourself, or on behalf of someone else, if they are unable to.
The BC Centre for Disease Control has outlined additional steps to take here:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/about-covid-19/if-you-are-sick
BC COVID-19 SELF ASSESSMENT TOOL: https://bc.thrive.health/
This self-assessment tool, developed with the BC Ministry of Health, will help determine whether you may need further assessment or testing for COVID-19.
You can complete this assessment for yourself, or on behalf of someone else, if they are unable to.
The BC Centre for Disease Control has outlined additional steps to take here:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/about-covid-19/if-you-are-sick
Is it okay to attend public gatherings?
All event organizers are ordered to limit all public gatherings larger than 50 people. This includes indoor and outdoor sporting events, conferences, meetings, religious gatherings or other similar events.
This threshold has been selected, as it is much easier to maintain important social distancing to prevent transmission of COVID-19.
More Information:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/event-planning
All event organizers are ordered to limit all public gatherings larger than 50 people. This includes indoor and outdoor sporting events, conferences, meetings, religious gatherings or other similar events.
This threshold has been selected, as it is much easier to maintain important social distancing to prevent transmission of COVID-19.
More Information:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/event-planning
Where can I get the most up to date information on the coronavirus (COVID-19) and actions being taken to protect the health of British Columbians?
For the most up to date information locally including current situation, risk, cases and testing, prevention, etc. please visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19
Additional information can be found on the Government of Canada’s website here: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html
For the most up to date information locally including current situation, risk, cases and testing, prevention, etc. please visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19
Additional information can be found on the Government of Canada’s website here: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html
Should you have questions or concerns not answered here, please contact my office at Dan.Albas@parl.gc.ca or at 1-800-665-8711.
My team and I will do our best to direct you to the correct resource.
My team and I will do our best to direct you to the correct resource.