The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is committed to reducing the risks of COVID-19 in all of its operations and keeping everyone as safe as possible. Vaccination against COVID-19 remains one of the most effective tools to prevent outbreaks and protect the health and safety of our staff, inmates, and communities.

• CSC’s new visitor proof of vaccination requirement is closely aligned with the new Government of Canada mandatory vaccination policy. This policy, released on October 6, 2021, requires all employees in the Core Public Administration to be vaccinated and applies to CSC employees. This includes volunteers as well as contractors accessing CSC buildings, in accordance with Public Services and Procurement Canada guidelines. 

• Visitors who are unable to be vaccinated based on a certified medical contraindication, religion, or another prohibited ground of discrimination as defined under the Canadian Human Rights Act, will be required to provide documentation to support their exemption prior to their visit and show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result. 

• For testing results, if a rapid test is used, the sample must have been collected within 48 hours of the scheduled visit or 72 hours for a PCR (Polymerase chain reaction) lab test.

• CSC began vaccinating inmates in January 2021. To date, 80% of inmates are fully vaccinated and 85% have received one dose. Vaccines continue to be offered to inmates, including new admissions to CSC. 

• CSC follows guidance from the Public Health Agency of Canada and Health Canada regarding vaccines, including recommendations of the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI).

• CSC’s webpage provides information on which institutions are currently open for inmate visits. Visits must be booked at least 48 hours in advance. Those planning a visit should always confirm their visit with the institution before travelling. 

• CSC’s proof of vaccination requirement for visitors was made in consultation with stakeholders. CSC has an Integrated Risk Management Framework in place to make decisions during the pandemic, which is a collaborative process with stakeholders, subject matter experts, and union partners. Health and safety measures in CSC facilities are reviewed on an ongoing basis, in accordance with the latest public health guidance.

Associated links

• Vaccination requirements for visitors
• Vaccination requirements for CSC volunteers
• Find out if an institution is open for visits
• Health and safety measures in place for visits
• Vaccines administered to inmates in the federal correctional system
• How to get proof of vaccination

Media Relations
Correctional Service Canada
613-992-7711
media@csc-scc.gc.ca