The Government of Ontario says the COVID-19 tests will no longer be free for those who require a negative test to travel to international destinations. This is effective from Friday December 11, 2020.
“Effective December 11, 2020, individuals requesting a COVID-19 test for international travel clearance are no longer eligible for a publicly funded COVID-19 test in Ontario,” the government said in a news release.
The provincial government says the measure is intended to ensure that tax payments are used for key priorities and to maintain capacity in the public COVID-19 pilot network.
Ontario says if a COVID-19 test is needed to travel, travelers should consider private testing facilities, such as travel clinics.
Shoppers Drug Mart is offering COVID-19, scheduled tests, to people who have no symptoms. The cost of one test is $199 plus tax. Results usually take 24 to 48 hours.
The province said it will continue to provide free testing to anyone who needs its Provincial Testing Guidelines, including those who have symptoms or those who come in contact with sick people.
Anyone included in the current Provincial Testing Guidelines should continue to look for public testing at pharmacies and testing centers, the government said.
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