Travel Outside Canada
Canadian citizens and permanent residents are advised to avoid all non-essential travel outside of Canada, and all cruise ship travel outside of Canada, until further notice to limit the spread of COVID-19.
- While COVID-19 can make anyone sick, older Canadians are one of the groups at a higher risk of developing a severe disease or other complications.
- The best way to protect yourself, your family, and those most at risk of severe illness from COVID-19 in our communities is to choose to stay in Canada. Contact your airline or tour operator to determine options for cancelling or postponing your trip.
- Restrictions are changing quickly and may be imposed by countries with little warning. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted. Should you choose to take non-essential travel outside Canada, you may be forced to remain outside of Canada longer than expected.
- If you must travel internationally, see Health Canada for what you need to know.
Returning to Canada
Travellers returning from international destinations (including the United States) are subject to a mandatory self-isolation public health order and federal quarantine requirements. Violation of the public health order may result in a $2,000 fine.
When you return to the province after a period of time in another country, it is mandatory to take the following measures.
- Self-isolate for 14 days.
- Self-monitor for respiratory or flu-like symptoms for 14 days.
- Consider preparations you can make in advance to ensure your comfort during this 14-day period.
- Call HealthLine 811 if you develop respiratory or flu-like symptoms.
- For general questions on travel recommendations and prevention measures, email COVID19@health.gov.sk.ca.
For more information on international travel, see:
Medical Coverage Outside of Canada
Extra medical insurance is recommended when residents travel internationally. Health service costs are often much higher than in Saskatchewan. If a Saskatchewan resident receives emergency medical or hospital care while outside Canada, they are responsible for paying the difference between the amount charged and the amount the Ministry of Health reimburses.
Please note: Saskatchewan Health provides limited coverage for emergency care outside of Canada. You are covered for only $100 (CAN) per day for inpatient services and up to $50 (CAN) for an outpatient hospital visit.
As COVID-19 is not a pre-existing medical condition, treatment may be covered by most travel insurance policies. However, that may change as insurers update their policies. Please check with your insurance company.
If you have questions about your Saskatchewan health coverage, call eHealth Saskatchewan at 1‑800‑667‑7551.
There is an increased risk of more severe outcomes for Canadians 65 and over, and those with compromised immune systems or underlying medical conditions.
Staying in a Hotel After Travelling
People returning from international travel can stay in a hotel as long as they do not have any respiratory symptoms (e.g. fever, cough, shortness of breath).
While staying at a hotel, you should take every precaution to protect yourself against the virus.
- Practice proper coughing and sneezing etiquette (into the bend of your elbow).
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoiding large crowds and practice physical distancing (do not shake hands, hug or kiss, keeping a distance of at least 2 metres from others).
If you are feeling ill during travel, you must avoid staying at a hotel and contact local public health authorities for direction.