Alberta residents will now need more than a paper record from a COVID-19 vaccine clinic if they want to sit down at a restaurant, work out at a gym or enter indoor venues like arenas or movie theatres.
Albertans hoping to enter any business that has implemented the COVID-19 restrictions exemption program — or Alberta’s vaccine passport — will now need to have the QR code provided by the provincial government.
As of Monday, proof of vaccine received at the time of vaccination or those saved from MyHealthRecords is longer be accepted.
“Alberta’s more secure and scannable QR code vaccine record makes it easier for Albertans to safely take part in daily activities,” Health Minister Jason Copping said.
First Nations immunization record, Canadian Armed Forces vaccine records and vaccine records issued by other province and territories will also be accepted.
Albertans who are not vaccinated can continue to present a negative, privately paid COVID-19 test from the previous 72 hours.
Valid proof of medical exemption will also still be accepted.
For those travelling internationally, a valid international travel identity document and the ArriveCan app will still be accepted.
Albertans can present the QR code on their smartphones or physical, printed copy. Those who don’t have a printer can call 811 to have a copy mailed to them, or can visit any registry to have a copy printed for free.
Business who have implemented the vaccine passport can use the AB COVID Records Verifier app to confirm the QR codes. The app can now scan codes provided by other provinces and territories.
Albertans will still need to provide valid ID when presenting the QR code.
Anyone who is missing a COVID-19 vaccine from their record can visit the government’s website for assistance.
— With files from The Canadian Press