Ontario Implements Vaccine Passport

Wednesday, 1 September 2021 13:26

Starting on September 22, you will need to provide proof of vaccination to go to the movies, sporting events, nightclubs, restaurants, gyms and other indoor businesses in Ontario.

The Province of Ontario will implement a vaccine passport starting on September 22, 2021.

Premier Doug Ford made the official announcement this afternoon.

"As the world continues its fight against the Delta variant, our government will never waver in our commitment to do what’s necessary to keep people safe, protect our hospitals and minimize disruptions to businesses,” said Premier Ford. “Based on the latest evidence and best advice, COVID-19 vaccine certificates give us the best chance to slow the spread of this virus while helping us to avoid further lockdowns. If you haven’t received your first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, please do so today."

Ford states they are starting the passport system on the 22, to give people three weeks to get the vaccine. You will need to be fully vaccinated to enter the following businesses in Ontario starting on the 22:

- Restaurants and bars (excluding outdoor patios, as well as delivery and takeout);
- Nightclubs (including outdoor areas of the establishment);
- Meeting and event spaces, such as banquet halls and conference/convention centres;
- Facilities used for sports and fitness activities and personal fitness training, such as gyms, fitness and recreational facilities with the exception of youth recreational sport;
- Sporting events;
- Casinos, bingo halls and gaming establishments;
- Concerts, music festivals, theatres and cinemas;
- Strip clubs, bathhouses and sex clubs;
- Racing venues (e.g., horse racing).

These mandatory requirements would not apply to outdoor settings where the risk of transmission is lower, including patios, with the exception of outdoor nightclub spaces given the risk associated with the setting. To access these businesses you will need to provide proof that you are fully vaccinated and a photo ID. There will be exceptions for those with limited medical exemptions and children under 12 who can't be vaccinated.

This will not apply to places where people get medical care, including pharmacies, food from grocery stores and medical supplies.

You will need to carry the proof of vaccination form with you at first. The Province is hoping to bring out an app in the near future with a QR code to make the process easier.

Ford admits that this is something he didn't want to do and that this will be temporary and the Province will only do it as long as it is absolutely necessary. You can listen to his comments from today below: