BC to launch a proof of vaccination program on September 13
Premier John Horgan and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced today that you’ll need to show proof of vaccination, and valid government ID, to access certain social and recreational events and businesses in BC beginning September 13.
This new health order will initially require people in BC to prove they’ve received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine to access certain businesses and events. By October 24, you’ll need to show proof of receiving two vaccine doses to access the same list of businesses and events.
Settings where proof of vaccination will be required include:
- indoor ticketed sporting events
- indoor concerts
- indoor theatre/dance/symphony events
- restaurants (indoor and patio dining)
- night clubs
- casinos
- movie theatres
- fitness centres/gyms (excluding youth recreational sports)
- businesses offering indoor high-intensity group exercise activities
- organized indoor events (e.g., weddings, parties, conferences, meetings, workshops)
- discretionary organized indoor group recreational classes and activities
At this time, it’s our understanding that proof of vaccination won’t be required for open houses or showings.
How it works
The province will launch a website prior to September 13 where you can confidentially access your proof of vaccination documentation and save a copy to your phone. Alternative options will be available to people who cannot access their proof of vaccination online.
Businesses or event organizers can implement these requirements earlier as part of ongoing safety plans. If, however, a business chooses to adopt a vaccination policy that goes beyond what’s set out in this latest health order, that business will be responsible for doing its own due diligence.
“Vaccines are our ticket to putting this pandemic behind us,” said Premier John Horgan in today’s announcement. “So I call on all eligible unvaccinated British Columbians to roll up their sleeves to stop the spread, and help protect themselves, their loved ones and the people in their community.”
To register and book a vaccination appointment, visit this website.
We’ll continue to monitor the latest COVID-19 developments and update you when we learn more.
For more information, read the province’s announcement.
