COVID-19 Resources

Planning to travel to Canada for a position at Queen's?

Last updated: September 23, 2021. This page will be updated as information becomes available.

US Citizens and Permanent Residents of the US:

Beginning August 9th, 2021, fully vaccinated US citizens and Permanent Residents residing in the United States, and entering from the United States, will be allowed to enter Canada for non-essential purposes.

Work Permit Applications: US nationals may apply for a work permit at the border when entering Canada, without first applying through the online process. It is recommended to apply at the border as online processing times are very lengthy. You will  need an Offer of Employment number from Queen's to apply.

All Other Foreign Nationals:

As of September 7th, 2021, fully vaccinated travellers from all other countries will be allowed to enter Canada for non-essential purposes. This includes visitors and family members.

Work Permit Applications: Foreign nationals who can enter Canada with an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) may apply for a work permit at the border when entering Canada, without first applying through the online process. It is recommended to apply at the border as online processing times are very lengthy. You will  need an Offer of Employment number from Queen's to apply.

Foreign nationals from countries for which Canada requires an entry visa (TRV) must apply via the online process. 

The requirements for fully vaccinated travellers are found at this website

Before you travel, make sure you know the rules and what you need to do before and after you arrive. Use the checklist that applies to you:

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada/IRCC advises that application processing times may be longer than usual. All applicants for work permits, except US citizens, must make an online application to obtain a letter of introduction or work authorization letter. You must take this letter to the border immigration office and show it to the border officer. The border officer will review your documentation. If all is in order, the officer will issue the work permit and allow you to enter Canada.

Biometrics: IRCC is working to ensure applications are not refused because of coronavirus restrictions, and extensions are given for those unable to obtain the required biometrics due to the closure of Visa Application Centres (VACs) in some countries. You can check services available at the office near you. Biometrics are not required for US citizens. 

The links below will help you make your plan before you arrive in Canada and complete your ArriveCan profile. Even though you may be exempt from quarantine requirements, you must file the ArriveCan profile with a quarantine plan, in case you are symptomatic on arrival. 

  • transportation to Kingston other than by public transit.
  • accommodation where you can self-isolate for 14 days without being in physical contact with others, especially vulnerable people, such as those aged 65+ or with pre-existing medical conditions.
  • access to food and medical supplies without leaving your accommodation.

The Government of Canada provides guidelines on how to self-isolate.