Get Informed: The Complete Guide to Quebec's Vaccine Passport App

Introduction

The Quebec government has implemented a vaccine passport system to limit access to non-essential shopping and activities for those who are not fully vaccinated. The VaxiCode app is available for download on both Apple and Android devices, and it works by showing a person’s vaccination status through a QR code. In this article, we will go through the details of how the system works, its implementation, and other important information related to the Quebec vaccine passport.

How it Works

People 13 years old and up in Quebec have to present their QR code in the new VaxiCode app to access non-essential services. The QR code stores the user’s vaccine information and it will show a green or red pass depending on the person’s vaccination status. To protect people's privacy, only the person’s name will be visible on the app and not the details of the vaccine. Additionally, people will be required to present photo ID to confirm their identity.

Use and Implementation

The use of the vaccine passport is enforced by the Quebec government, and businesses who don’t check people’s vaccination status can face fines up to ,000. The passport is required in several places, including events and festivals, theatres, casinos, arcades, cruises, sports such as karate, crossfit and basketball, indoor sports such as swimming, gymnastics, and trampolines. Furthermore, it's also required for amusement rides, zoos, botanical gardens, biodomes, paintball, and bowling. It's noteworthy to mention that homeless people will not be required to show their vaccination passport for access to indoor dining rooms and patios.

For Visitors

Visitors from outside the province don't need to download Quebec's VaxiCode app, but they must be fully vaccinated and present their official proof of full vaccination provided by their own jurisdictions, along with a photo ID, to access places like restaurants and live events.

Exceptions for People Who Can't Get Vaccinated

In the exceptional cases where people are exempt from vaccines, a directive will be sent to doctors for them to fill out a form to enter the information in the vaccination registry. This will allow people to get the green light on their mobile application.

Fraud and Security Concerns

The Quebec government is aware of the potential for fraudulent activity, so they have taken steps to prevent it. The QR code includes an unalterable Government of Quebec signature, and the application can detect if the QR code has been falsified or if it is a fake. However, there have been cases of people trying to fake their proof of vaccination. Any Canadian who wants to report COVID-19-related frauds, including fake test results and records, should contact their local police and report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) toll-free at 1-888-495-8501 or online at antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.

Conclusion

Quebec's vaccine passport aims to protect the health of the population and the economy. In addition to the app, people who do not wish to use the smartphone app can have their proof of vaccination mailed to them or they can print it out on their own. The vaccine passport system includes two different apps, VaxiCode for customers and VaxiCode Verif for businesses. It will be enforced by fines similar to the way that the masking policy was enforced earlier in the pandemic. While exceptions are available for people who can't get vaccinated, they have to follow specific procedures outlined by the government. Visitors from outside the province must present their official proof of full vaccination provided by their own jurisdictions. Finally, despite concerns about fraud, the Quebec government has implemented measures to ensure the authenticity of the vaccine passport system.