Starting September 22, 2021, everyone aged 12 and older will need to provide proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 along with a piece of identification to access certain public spaces in Ontario.

These spaces include higher-risk indoor public places where face coverings cannot always be worn; such as cinemas and restaurants. These new rules will not apply to outdoor settings where the risk of transmission is lower; such as outdoor dining patios and parks.

How can I get a proof of vaccination if I was vaccinated outside of Ontario?

If you received your first and/or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccines outside of Ontario, you must contact your local Ontario Public Health Unit. They will tell you what information and documents you need to submit in order to record your information in the Public Health’s COVaxON system.

You are considered fully vaccinated if you received:

• The full series of a COVID-19 vaccine authorized by Health Canada, or any combination of such vaccines
• One or two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine not authorized by Health Canada, followed by one dose of a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine authorized by Health Canada, or
• Three doses of a COVID-19 vaccine not authorized by Health Canada

You must have received your last dose at least 14 full days prior in order to be considered fully vaccinated by Ontario Public Health.

If you have questions about your vaccination status, you should contact the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900 for assistance.

What if I am not vaccinated?

If you were unable to get the vaccine due to medical reasons, you can show a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions can be integrated into the digital vaccine certificate. Children who are 11 years of age and younger and unable to be vaccinated will be exempt from having to show proof.

What types of identification are acceptable?

You will need to confirm that your name and date of birth match your vaccination receipt. The identification requirements are flexible, government identification can be used; however, it is not the only type of ID accepted. Identification that young people may have access to includes a birth certificate, a passport, or school issued ID.

For More Information

• Proof of Vaccination Guidance for Businesses and Organizations - This guidance document sets out baseline requirements that specified businesses and organizations must comply with from the Ministry of Health.
• Ontario to Require Proof of Vaccination in Select Settings - Province to launch enhanced vaccine certificate and verification app to stop the spread of COVID-19.
• COVID-19 Communication Resources - Find resources in multiple languages to help local communication efforts in responding to COVID-19. From the Ministry of Health.
• COVID-19 Guidance for Individuals Vaccinated outside of Ontario/Canada - This document is intended to provide health care providers with approaches for individuals who have received COVID-19 vaccination outside of Ontario or Canada.
• COVID-19 Vaccinated Travellers Entering Canada - Vaccination information for individuals entering Canada. From the Government of Canada.