One of the most disrupted aspects of our day-to-day lives during the coronavirus pandemic has been local and international travel. While rules around quarantining and self-isolation still exist, restrictions are gradually starting to lift. However, when it comes to cross-provincial travel, you’ll need to be aware of a few rules before you head out. Even if you’re a Nova Scotia resident and you’re travelling back after a period of work or visiting family, you’ll need to adhere to the following.

Be Aware of the Quarantine Rules

Despite the easing of restrictions in some areas, it’s important to be aware that all Canadian provinces have their own rules about inter-provincial travel. Currently, if you are travelling into Nova Scotia from another province (except Prince Edward Island), the rules are that you will need to quarantine or self-isolate for a period of 14 days. Or, if you have relatives or friends from another province who have travelled to stay with you, all of you must isolate for 14 days.

Establish Whether Your Travel is Essential or Not

Most areas of the world are discouraging non-essential travel unless the area has been deemed safe. For most Canadian provinces, non-essential travel is still being discouraged, so it’s important to determine what is essential and what isn’t. Essential travel usually includes permanent residents, post-secondary students, and people travelling between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick or Prince Edward Island for purposes of work or study. If you’re travelling for business, for example, this will likely pass as essential, but it will depend on the nature of the visit. More information about what counts as essential and non-essential can be found on novascotia.ca. You could also benefit from getting in touch with experts if you are travelling for businesses to help organize your trip so that you have a smooth travel experience.

Check the Infection Numbers

If you’re concerned about travelling in and out of Nova Scotia, it’s also worth keeping an eye on the rates of infection in the province. If you’re travelling home to Nova Scotia from another province, it’s also worth getting a Covid test in case you’re asked to provide evidence by provincial border officials.

Know the Rules About Travelling Through

Nova Scotia also has set rules about travelling through the province. If you’re driving through to reach a destination in another province, this is permissible; however, you are advised to make as few stops as possible along the way. You’ll also need to show proof that you’re travelling through and not planning to stop for an extended period.

Fill in the Safe Check-In Form

Anyone who is allowed to travel into Nova Scotia must fill in the Safe Check-In Form, including people who are exempt from self-isolation. If you live in a household, each person aged 18 and older must fill in the Safe Check-In form before travelling. Approval takes about 3 business days, but it can vary depending on your reasons for travel. It is advised that you submit your form at least a week before travel to allow for processing times. Once approved, you’ll need to show additional evidence to border officials such as:

• Proof of permanent residency
• Documentation showing your reasons for travel
• Proof that you’re entering the province for essential travel