You'll need the enhanced vaccine passport starting today

Ontario's new proof of vaccination requirements for the QR code that can be scanned takes effect today (Tuesday, Jan. 4). Tomorrow (Jan. 5), the province is returning to a modified step two of the Roadmap to Reopen, which will close indoor dining and gyms until at least Jan. 26. 

People who are visiting places that require proof that they're vaccinated against COVID-19 must have the enhanced vaccine certificate with the QR code to be scanned by the Verify Ontario app. A piece of identification is still needed as well.

Up until now, businesses have accepted the QR code and the original vaccine passport that shows the date someone was vaccinated.

The certificate with the QR code can be downloaded here. You'll need your health card to access it. 

While it can be added to your smartphone to easily access, it can also be printed. Businesses must accept a digital or paper copy.

Proof of vaccination is required for certain high-risk, indoor settings such as restaurants, bars, gyms, cinemas, gaming establishments. The full list of affected locations is available here.

Ontario announced the switch to the enhanced certificate at the same time it delayed when the proof of vaccination requirements would be lifted. The measures were scheduled to start lifting in mid-January, however, that has been postponed. A new date has not been announced.

A QR code is also going to be needed for medical exemptions and clinical trial exemptions. As of Jan. 10, physician notes will no longer be accepted under the proof-of-vaccination system.