QR code vaccine record updated for travel
Albertans planning to travel can download an updated vaccine record with a QR code to use within and outside Canada on Nov. 24.
Alberta’s vaccine record will be updated to meet the recommended Canadian standard for domestic and international travel. The updated record will be available Nov. 24 at alberta.ca/CovidRecords. It also includes middle names and the record is in both official languages.
There is no need for Albertans who already have a QR code vaccine record to save or reprint the updated version if they do not intend to travel. Albertans can continue to use their already saved vaccine record with a QR code to access local businesses and venues taking part in the Restrictions Exemption Program (REP).
Alberta’s QR code scanning app will recognize both the current and updated QR code vaccine record.
Minister of Health, Jason Cupping said, “We’re making it easier for Albertans to travel at home and abroad with an internationally recognized proof of vaccination. Millions of vaccinated Albertans already have a secure QR vaccine record and they can still use it to safely enjoy activities within our province. An updated QR code will allow those who want to travel to quickly and easily provide proof of vaccination.”
Albertans planning to travel need to check the required travel documents with the Government of Canada and their destination ahead of any interprovincial or international travel.
Albertans can get a printed vaccine record with QR code at no cost by visiting a registry agent office or by calling 811.
Accepted proof of vaccination for REP: non-Alberta records
Patrons vaccinated outside Canada, including international travellers, can use their out-of-country vaccine records along with a valid ID such as a passport. Patrons vaccinated in other provinces and territories are required to use their jurisdictions’ vaccine records with a QR code, as other forms of records are no longer accepted in the REP.
Alberta businesses and venues are strongly encouraged to use the AB Covid Records Verifier app to confirm their patrons’ vaccination status meets the REP requirements. If the app shows a ‘record not valid’ or ‘record not found’ message, the patron will not be able to enter a venue. The app can scan records with QR codes issued by other provinces and territories as well as Canadian Armed Forces records.
For adults 18 years and older, businesses must check for a valid ID that matches the name and date of birth on the vaccine record with any accepted type of proof of vaccination.
Quick facts
• Currently, access to alberta.ca/CovidRecords is restricted to within Canada. Limiting the access to Canada is one of many tools used to help secure public websites, protect Albertans’ information and reduce the risk of cybersecurity attacks.
• Albertans do not need to create an account to get their records through alberta.ca/CovidRecords. They only need to enter the month and year of vaccination of any dose, Alberta Personal Health Number and date of birth. It may take two weeks for the record to be available after getting immunized.
• Previous Alberta immunization records without a QR code, including ones from vaccine providers and those saved from MyHealth Records, are no longer accepted as proof of vaccination under the Restrictions Exemption Program.
• Anyone who has missing or incorrect information on their vaccine record or has problems accessing it can go to alberta.ca/CovidRecordsHelp.
• Currently, 38 out of 48 First Nations can access the vaccine record with a QR code through alberta.ca/CovidRecords. Alberta will continue to work with the remaining First Nations to add their immunization records in the coming weeks.
• Proof of vaccinations for members of the Canadian Armed Forces will continue to be accepted.
• Creating or using a false vaccination record is an offence subject to prosecution and/or fines of up to $100,000 for a first-time offence.
