Skip to content

What will Ontario's vaccine certification program look like?

Ontario says its COVID-19 vaccination certificate program will come into effect Sept. 22. Here's a look at how it will work:

How will I show my proof of vaccination?

Initially, residents will show a PDF or printout of the vaccination receipt they received when they got their COVID-19 shots, along with a government-issued piece of ID such as a photo health card or driver's licence.

The province is expected to launch a system in late October that will send everyone a QR code to accompany their vaccination receipt. It will also launch an app that will allow service providers to scan the QR codes as proof of vaccination. 

In which settings will patrons need to show that they're fully vaccinated?

-Restaurants and bars, with exceptions for patio, takeout and delivery services

-Nightclubs

-Meeting and event spaces, such as banquet halls

-Sports and fitness facilities, such as gyms

-Sporting events

-Casinos, bingo halls and gaming establishments

-Concerts, music festivals, theatres and cinemas

-Strip clubs, bathhouses and sex clubs

-Racing venues

What are the exceptions?

The province says the requirement does not apply for outdoor settings, with the exception of outdoor nightclubs. 

People who are medically exempt from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine and those who are under 12 years of age will be able to access settings where the vaccine certificate is required without receiving the shots.

A negative COVID-19 test will not entitle people to enter most of the settings where the vaccine certificate is needed, with exceptions for weddings and funeral receptions until Oct. 12. 

Vaccination status will not affect anyone's ability to receive necessary medical care, food from grocery stores, basic medical supplies or other essentials, nor will it affect the ability to vote in the upcoming federal election.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 1, 2021.

The Canadian Press


Looking for Ontario News?

VillageReport.ca viewed on a mobile phone

Check out Village Report - the news that matters most to Canada, updated throughout the day.  Or, subscribe to Village Report's free daily newsletter: a compilation of the news you need to know, sent to your inbox at 6AM.

Subscribe